Rachael & Sandy’s Arisaig Wedding at Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Church & Astley Hall
A Rainy Scottish Wedding Day (With Perfect Timing!)
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Scotland throws every kind of weather at a wedding day – wonder no more. Rachael and Sandy’s wedding at Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Church and Astley Hall in Arisaig was a masterclass in timing (and luck). Yes, it rained. A lot. But here’s the thing: every time we needed it to stop, it did. Like someone upstairs had a strict wedding-day weather rota.
The Ceremony at Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Church
The day began at the historic Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Catholic Church, which is about as stunning as a ceremony venue gets. Its Gothic Revival architecture and serene Highland setting made for an incredible backdrop as Rachael and Sandy said their vows. Inside, the church looked magnificent—so much character and history, which really set the tone for the day.
After the “I do’s,” we made a break for the outdoors because, miraculously, the rain paused. Cue the classic group shot outside the church—everyone looking amazing (and a little relieved not to be under umbrellas).
Portraits on the Arisaig Coastline
Later, we headed to the beach for some portraits, and once again, the weather gods pulled through. The rain cleared, the clouds opened, and we got that dreamy, windswept Scottish coastline look that you just can’t fake. Honestly, these might be some of my favorite shots—raw, natural, and totally romantic without being staged.
The Reception at Astley Hall
Then it was on to Astley Hall, Arisaig, for the reception. Now, this wasn’t your typical cookie-cutter setup. The couple (and their very talented crew) went full-on DIY, and it looked incredible. The hall was completely transformed into something that felt personal, stylish, and just very them. Fairy lights, personal touches, and a layout that made the whole place feel like one big party.
And speaking of parties… the energy was unreal. This was a proper Highland wedding celebration, and the dance floor was never empty. I stayed for a good while, and let’s just say things were getting lively before I left. (Probably a good thing I made an exit when I did—some moments are best left undocumented!)
Why I Loved Photographing This Arisaig Wedding
What made this wedding so special wasn’t just the locations (though Arisaig weddings are always incredible), or even the lucky breaks in the weather—it was the atmosphere. From start to finish, this day was full of laughter, love, and just the right amount of chaos. Rachael and Sandy absolutely nailed it.
Planning Your Wedding in Arisaig?
If you’re dreaming of a Scottish Highlands wedding, Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Church and Astley Hall are an amazing combo. A historic church for a jaw-dropping ceremony, a flexible reception space to make your own, and beaches nearby for epic photos—it doesn’t get better than that.
Thinking of getting married here? Drop me a message—I’d love to help capture your day (rain, shine… or both).
