A Return to Clachtoll: Rachel & Kyle’s Family Elopement
Clachtoll has a special way of calling people back. Rachel and Kyle had first visited this stunning corner of the coast during a memorable NC500 trip, and the place had clearly stayed with them. So when they decided to elope with their young son and a couple of close friends, they couldn't think of a better place to return to.
On a beautiful, warm summer day, we met for their ceremony. They had chosen a spot I hadn't used before—a rocky perch on the headland above the main beach. It was an inspired choice, offering incredible views out towards Split Rock. Being slightly elevated gave their ceremony a wonderful sense of intimacy; while beachgoers below may have seen a wedding taking place, it felt like we were in our own private world.
I often have the privilege of spending a few quiet moments with the groom while we wait for the bride to arrive. There was a wonderful energy in the air—that perfect mix of excitement and natural pre-ceremony nerves that every groom feels, which is always a lovely part of the day's story.
Photos: Natalia Swiader
The ceremony that unfolded was a perfect reflection of their journey: a love built not on grand gestures, but on the quiet strength that comes from simply being together. From their very first date, what mattered most was not the bowling or the drinks, but simply how right it felt to be in each other's company. Their relationship has a steadiness that allows them to face uncertainty with humour and patience, finding joy in the small, shared rhythms of their days.
Their ceremony also beautifully acknowledged that marriage isn’t about two perfect people coming together. It’s about being real, learning to enjoy your differences, and choosing to show up for each other, day after day. It’s a promise to keep overcoming obstacles and holding on, because you’re doing it together. It felt like a beautiful full-circle moment to be back at Clachtoll, making a new, powerful memory in a place that already meant so much.
Against this stunning backdrop, they bound their hands in a handfasting with a single piece of tartan. Tartan itself carries so much meaning—many different threads woven together to create one strong, beautiful fabric. It felt like the perfect symbol for their marriage: a life made from all the strands of joy, challenge, and everyday moments, woven into one shared story.
Having their young son there as an important part of their day, watching his parents make their promises, made the celebration feel complete. It was a day that felt so honest and real, full of warmth and the easy joy of a family celebrating their love. Thank you, Rachel and Kyle, for trusting me with your vision and for creating such a beautiful, heartfelt day.
Monika was our wedding officiant at our wedding in November, and looking back, we can't imagine anyone better by our side. We had our wedding in Scotland with our closest family and friends and were looking for someone to conduct our ceremony in German. With Monika, we found not just an officiant, but a true companion throughout the entire journey to our wedding.
From the very beginning, she supported us with great warmth, professionalism, and experience. In several conversations, she took the time to learn our story, showed us different options for the ceremony, and always gave us the freedom to design everything according to our wishes. We were particularly impressed by how lovingly and precisely she incorporated even the smallest details from our stories into the speech.
Monika was also there for us beyond the ceremony itself. We could always count on her support with questions about legal matters, required documents, and the entire preparation process. This comprehensive support gave us an incredible sense of security and made the path to our wedding much easier.
Dear Monika, we can't thank you enough. You not only accompanied us on our special day, but you made it perfect with your warm personality and your beautiful speech!
Birte & Alex
