Locations: Glencoe & Glasgow, Scotland
Photography & Story: Elope Easy by Isabella
Celebrant: Alyson Stewart
Hair and Make-up: Tracy Lan
When Allan and Kirsty first got in touch for their Glencoe elopement, I knew straight away they were my kind of couple: relaxed, genuine, and deeply in love.
What started as an intimate highland elopement soon turned into a week-long journey blending rich Chinese customs with iconic Scottish heritage.
As a documentary photographer with a background in factual TV, capturing this unique fusion wasn't just an honor: it was one of the most heartwarming experiences of my career.
But let’s trace it back...
Allan and Kirsty first got in touch because they needed a photographer and planner for their elopement in Glencoe.
I was so excited when they asked me to photograph also the rest of their wedding!
It’s the first time a couple has involved me in a week-long celebration, and I was honored to say yes.
Their week began in the misty Highlands.
Dressed in full Scottish attire, Allan and Kirsty exchanged vows in a ceremony officiated by humanist Alyson Stewart.
They embraced ancient Celtic traditions like handfasting and jumping the besom, leaping over a broomstick together to sweep away the past and step into married life.
Next came the traditional Chinese celebrations in Glasgow. But before Allan could claim his bride, he had to face the door games!
Backed by his five groomsmen, Allan tackled hilarious challenges set by Kirsty’s family, from full K-pop dance routines to boy-band poses.
The celebrations wrapped up with a second tea ceremony for Allan’s family, followed by a 12-course banquet for 170 guests at Chinatown Restaurant, a staple for Cantonese weddings.
The evening was electric, featuring a surprise Lion Dance, Cantonese-speaking elders chatting alongside guests with thick Scottish accents, and incredible food I’d never tried before.
What surprised me most was how natural it felt when they invited me to sit with Kirsty’s aunties for dinner.
I heard so many lovely stories, and by the end, I felt welcomed as a friend.
As Allan and Kirsty told me afterwards, this felt even more like their real wedding because they made their parents so happy.
On Saturday, we headed to The Old Bank in Glasgow’s Southside for an elegant party in a beautiful 1920s venue, a truly special way to wrap up the week celebrating with their pals!
This was my first Chinese and Asian wedding, as both a photographer and guest.
I went in not knowing what to expect, and without exaggerating, it was the best week I've had in a long while.
It was as much a human experience as a professional one, and while I was sitting at my desk figuring out how to deliver a cohesive wedding gallery, I looked back at these wonderful moments and realised they were as meaningful to me as they were to my clients.
Hello! I’m Isabella…
Elopement Photographer and Planner in Central Scotland
My love for romance and fantasy books has inspired me to become an elopement photographer.
I now photograph all sorts of weddings, and I would love to work with you!
If you are curious to learn about my services, head here.
