Intimate + effortlessly editorial | Jenna + Shane’s City Wedding at the Edinburgh Grand | Heather McKay Photography

While I adore a big, beautiful celebration, there is always something so soulful about an intimate wedding. Celebrating with their absolute closest people, Jenna + Shane’s city wedding at the Edinburgh Grand was intimate, bespoke, and straight out of a magazine.

Jenna adored the editorial vibe – vogue-worthy but effortless – so when I met her in her bridal suite, we started with details and bridal prep straight away. Getting ready for her wedding day surrounded by her little girls, best friends and family was such a buzz of emotion, and documenting all of her closest people made sure that she and Shane could immerse themselves right back into that energy.

Across the hotel, Shane and his best friends were getting ready and organising their finishing touches. I often have guys tell me they’re not that bothered about the morning photographs, but it’s one of my favourite times of the day. It’s a time where you’ll suddenly feel that nervous anticipation, and you’ll have your absolute closest people there to support you and hype you up. It’s a really gorgeous energy I find people are always grateful to be able to look back on. Plus, you’ll be dressed to the nines, you need your moment too! 

Their ceremony was intimate and heartfelt, made even more special by their unique hand fasting. Choosing to tie together four ribbons instead of the usual two, they used one to symbolise each member of their family coming together as one – the most perfect display of their family love.

In the bar, their guests greeted them and enjoyed a glass of champagne while we made sure to get those ‘must-have’ photos. I always ask couples to send me over a list of up to 10 key groups you’d love a photo with, so we can work through them as quickly as possible on the day so as not to take up too much time away from your guests. While it’s much easier than a larger wedding, it always helps even for intimate weddings to keep me quick and organised for you.

Exploring different areas of the hotel gave such a dynamic edge to their portraits, blending those editorial shots Jenna dreamt of and the intimate, candid stills of their first moments as a married couple. I always prompt instead of pose, guiding you on connecting with one another or suggesting a little series of prompts. Tailoring my style to match your vibe, this approach allows me to capture that gorgeous image and the little touches, laughs and genuine emotions around it, curating a gallery that feels editorial yet effortless.

I love taking a step back at the drinks reception and capturing the honest emotion and interactions between guests. Taking the space to observe and discreetly document your favourite people coming together means you get to really immerse yourselves back into your day when you view your gallery, being surrounded again by the people you love most and seeing their genuine, unaltered connection.

Their styling was exquisite with a black and white colour scheme, candlelit dining, and gypsophila and white roses as their floral details. A table and floor cushions kept the little ones comfortable and happy while Shane gave a heartfelt speech sharing sweet stories from his life with Jenna and thanking all of their guests for being there with them.

Creating mood boards together and catching up about your hopes and plans for your day helps ensure I understand your vision and everything that’s important to you. Knowing the people you love and the type of couple you are allows me to focus on the things that matter to you and tailor my approach to curate a gallery that feels effortless and true to you.

If you’re planning an intimate city wedding and would love to know more about how I work, I would love to hear from you. Get in touch for more information on full day packages, or bespoke hourly rates for shorter coverage to suit you and your day.

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