Arran is often called “Scotland in miniature.” An island of rugged peaks, sweeping beaches and quiet glens that feel worlds away from the rush of everyday life. It is the perfect backdrop for an elopement, and Sophia and Chris found their place within it on the shores of Loch Iorsa, deep in the heart of the Dougarie Estate.
Their day was made possible by the incredible team at The Dougarie Boathouse, who not only host weddings in their beautiful coastal venue but also plan elopements across the estate. Malin, the on-the-ground coordinator, brought everything together with such care. She organised the styling, flowers, celebrant, and all the small but important details that made the day feel completely personal. She even drove us out in a 4×4 across the hills to reach the loch, a journey that made the ceremony spot feel even more hidden and special.
When we arrived, the setting was unbelievably serene. Mist drifted low over the mountains, the heather was alive with colour, and the loch stretched out in front of us. It was here, on this quiet shoreline, that Sophia and Chris exchanged vows. No distractions, no audience, just the raw beauty of Scotland and the connection between two people. A family out walking passed by and stopped for a moment, becoming the most unexpected guests. Otherwise, it was simply theirs.
What stood out most was how intentional it all felt. Every element had been thought through, but nothing was overdone. It was simple, meaningful, and deeply rooted in place. That is the beauty of eloping with The Dougarie Boathouse. You are not just booking a venue, you are working with a team who know the land, who can take you off the beaten path, and who understand how to create a day that is centred around what matters to you.
Afterwards, we took time to explore the landscape, letting the stillness of the loch and the drama of the hills shape the photographs. The weather was moody and changeable, but that only added to the atmosphere. Scotland gives you what it wants on the day, and it is always magic.
Eloping on Arran means embracing the elements, whether that is wind, mist, rain or sunshine, and finding beauty in whatever the day brings. It is proof that a wedding does not need to be big to be powerful.
If this is the kind of celebration you are dreaming of, honest, artful, and completely yours, I would love to be there to capture it. Get in touch with me to start planning your own Isle of Arran elopement.
Images with borders are shot on 35mm film, those without borders are shot on digital.
“The photos look really beautiful, we’re delighted with them.
Thank you for giving us something so special to treasure for the rest of our lives.
We’re truly grateful for your talent and the care you put into your work.”
The Team Behind the Day
Photography: What Susan Sees Photography
Planning & Venue: The Dougarie Boathouse
Styling: Dekor & Co
Flowers: Eleanor’s Flowers Arran
Celebrant: Sarah Pomfret Celebrant
HOW DO YOU GET TO THE ISLE OF ARRAN?
Arran is one of Scotland’s most accessible islands. You can reach it by a short ferry ride from Ardrossan on the west coast, which is about an hour’s drive from Glasgow. Once you arrive, everything feels wonderfully remote but is still easy to explore by car. If you are planning an elopement on the Dougarie Estate, their team can guide you with travel tips and even 4×4 access to the most beautiful hidden ceremony spots.
CAN WE STAY AT THE DOUGARIE BOATHOUSE?
The estate offers a range of accommodation, from the restored Dougarie Boathouse to cottages scattered across the grounds. Many couples choose to make a weekend of it, combining their elopement with a relaxed island escape. It is ideal if you want somewhere private, beautiful, and close to your ceremony location.
