bethany & marijn’s highland family wedding
Every wedding holds a special place in my heart, but some have unique touches that make them even more memorable. Bethany & Marijn’s early May wedding was one of those. It marked the beginning of the wedding season, and after a winter break, it was a joy to start conductng ceremonies again. What made it even more special was finally meeting Libby from Hands full of Flowers—who often provides the stunning floral arrangements for my Highland ceremonies—not as a florist this time, but as the mother of the bride! As it turned out, there was another personal connection: when I first visited the Highlands with a close friend, she happened to be friends with Bethany’s family. It felt as though everything had come full circle, making this wedding a particularly meaningful one to be part of.
Photos: https://terezavalner.com/
Set in the heart of the North-West Highlands, Bethany & Marijn’s wedding took place in the lush garden of a luxurious, character-filled self-catering house, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The Highlands held deep significance for Bethany, and the couple wanted to share this beauty with Marijn’s family and friends from the Netherlands. The wedding had a wonderfully international feel, with guests from both countries coming together to celebrate, making it a truly joyful and warm occasion.
One of the most touching aspects of the wedding was the way friends and family came together, not only to celebrate but to help bring everything to life. The neighbouring village hall was lovingly decorated for the evening celebrations, with guests lending a hand to ensure every detail was perfect. This spirit of togetherness added an extra layer of warmth and meaning to the day.
The ceremony itself was a heartfelt and deeply personal affair. Under bright early May skies—something never guaranteed in the Highlands—Bethany & Marijn stood before their loved ones to exchange their vows. The words they shared reflected the depth of their connection, built over years of long-distance love and a shared journey through life’s ups and downs. Their ceremony included a poignant handfasting, with Bethany’s brother and sister performing the honour of binding their hands, symbolizing not just their union but the joining of their families. The reading of ‘Wedding Poem’ by Whitney Hanson set a beautifully reflective tone, reminding everyone present that love is not just about passion but about resilience, growth, and always finding one another again—just as a river finds the sea.
Following the ceremony, Bethany & Marijn, along with their guests, raised a toast with the quaich, a Scottish tradition symbolizing unity and welcome. It was a perfect moment to acknowledge the blending of their two cultures and the new family they were forming together. The celebrations continued into the night at the village hall, filled with laughter, music, and the kind of joyous energy that only a wedding can bring.
For me, this wedding was not just about officiating a beautiful ceremony but also about reconnecting with familiar faces. Meeting Libby in this new role, and seeing other talented suppliers who often bring their magic to my weddings, was a real pleasure. As I left that evening, I couldn’t help but feel immense gratitude—gratitude for the beautiful setting, the wonderful people, and the opportunity to be part of such an unforgettable day.
