Neil & Maroussia
July 7th, 2026 • Edinburgh, Scotland
Our Story
Neil
Curious, enthousiastic, and a nerd through-and-through (though he hides it very well). He thrives at the gym and enjoys trying all kinds of food, no matter what it is or where it came from. New flavors and new challenges always excite him, but at the end of the day, nothing beats coming home to the person he loves (her). He recharges best in his own space, eating a good meal someone else cooked for him, and playing games.
Maroussia
Although she won't initially show it when you first meet her, she's actually quite a geek at heart. She'll randomly dump a story in your lap on a book she's reading or a fascinating video she's seen, or you'll find her zoned out with a mind full of Pokémon. She loves traveling and experiencing new places and cultures, particularly the ones that pique her curiousity with a good story. Her definition of home is having her favourite person (him) by her side, and a set of comfy clothing.
How We Met
Towards the end of the strange days that were Covid times, he was the big, scary Scotsman who would never stay at the bar, but only pop in at night for his daily gallon of water. One night, she was engaged in a rather bizarre conversation with two colleagues, which he overheard and just stood there and witnessed the carnage unfold itself. Something told him to return to the bar that night, where she told him he vaguely looked like Ed Sheeran and he should partake in the karaoke, and he told her that would happen over his dead body. What started as an awkward conversation and a very bold chase (Yes, she chased him!) quickly developed into a close and unbreakable bond despite the odds and the chaos.
The Venue & Events
Carlowrie Castle
Set amidst 30 acres of private gardens just outside Edinburgh, Carlowrie Castle is a stunning 19th-century Scottish baronial castle that offers a perfect blend of historic grandeur and modern luxury. Its turreted silhouette and beautifully restored interiors provide a fairy-tale setting for our special day.
The castle's elegant Orangery will be the centerpiece of our celebration, hosting both the ceremony and dinner under its glass roof surrounded by lush greenery. For fair weather, we'll move the ceremony to the picturesque gardens. The evening entertainment will return to the Orangery, transformed with twinkling lights for dancing.
During cocktail hour, guests can explore the castle's modernized rooms including the Library Bar and the Piano Room, or enjoy lawn games in the Castle Gardens if weather permits.
Order of Events
Ceremony
2:00 PM
The Orangery at Carlowrie Castle
Please arrive from 1:30 PM to find the place and get comfortable
Reception
2:30 PM
The Castle and/or the Castle Gardens
Drinks and canapés while exploring the castle's modernized rooms and play lawn games in the Castle Gardens if weather permits
Wedding Breakfast
5:00 PM
The Orangery, Carlowrie Castle
Four-course feast under the glass roof surrounded by greenery
Evening Reception
7:30 PM
The Orangery, Carlowrie Castle
Join us for a traditional Highland Fling and dance the night away!
Dress Code
Garden Party Attire
We invite our guests to embrace the beautiful castle gardens with light, airy garden party attire. Think pastels, floral patterns, and comfortable elegance that matches the romantic outdoor setting.
The weather in Edinburgh in July is typically mild (10-20°C), with potential for both sunshine and rain. Layers are recommended, especially for the evening when it might get cooler.
Gentlemen
Slacks with a button-down shirt (tie optional), no jacket required. Light/pastel colors or subtle patterns encouraged. Of course the Scotsmen are more than welcome to wear their kilts!
Ladies
Dresses below the knee in floral patterns or light/pastel colors. Jumpsuits or elegant separates also welcome.
Footwear Note
The venue has grass and stone surfaces. Choose comfortable shoes suitable for dancing! Wedges, block heels, or stylish flats recommended.
Dress for a joyful celebration in the castle gardens - comfort meets elegance!
Explore Edinburgh
Where to Stay
Our personal recommendations to spend a couple of nights in Edinburgh!
-
Radisson Blu on The Royal Mile
Boutique hotel in the city center with views of Edinburgh Castle. Easily accessible from the airport and close to the trainstation.
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The Dakota Edinburgh South Queensferry
The recommendation from our venue! Merely 10 minutes from the venue by car.
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Moxy Edinburgh Airport
Modern chic hotel, a stone's throw from the Arrivals hall. The ultimate convenience location!
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Princes Street Suites
Bigger apartments in the heart of the city. Minutes away from Waverly train station and walking distance to bars and restaurants.
-
Macdonald Houstoun House
A beautiful. relaxing stay outside Edinburgh. About 17 miles away from the city center, but well-accessible through public transportation.
Where to Eat & Drink
Please see our top recommendations for food and drinks in Edinburgh. It'll be busy, so if you see something you like, make sure to book a table!
Restaurants
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Mowgli
Authentic Indian street food with vibrant flavors -
Tattu
Contemporary Asian cuisine with stunning cherry blossom decor -
The Botanist
Modern British fare with creative cocktails and rooftop views
Bars
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The Alchemist
Molecular mixology with theatrical cocktail presentations -
NQ64
Retro gaming-themed bar with creative video game-inspired drinks -
The Hanging Bat
Craft beer bar with excellent selection of local Scottish brews
What to Do
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Edinburgh Castle
Historic fortress with stunning views and Scottish crown jewels -
King Arthur's Seat
Hike to the top for panoramic city views -
Royal Mile
Walk from Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle through a street filled with history and elegance. Halfway up (or down!), pop into Neil's favourite pub The World's End. -
The Islander Workshop Experience
Design and build your own Harris Tweed bag, and bring home a reminder of Scotland you'll use everyday! -
The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile
Taste the history of the Scots through a curated selection of different whisky's and a three-course meal. -
Haunted Edinburgh Ghost Tours
Experience the darker side of the history of Edinburgh. Including the infamous graveyards and witches of the city.
Travel Guide
Your Journey to the Castle
Arriving by Air
From Edinburgh Airport (EDI):
• Quickest: Taxi (25 min, £30-40)
• Budget: Airlink 100 bus to city center + transfer (1h)
From Edinburgh City
From Princes Street:
• Direct taxi (20 min, £25-30)
• Scenic route: Lothian 27 bus to Kirkliston + short taxi
Driving Directions
• Complimentary parking available
• From M9 motorway: Exit at Junction 1A
• Follow brown tourist signs to Kirkliston
• Castle is 5 minutes west of village
Transport Tips
• Pre-book taxis for evening return
• Uber operates throughout Edinburgh
• Car rentals at airport (Enterprise, Hertz)
• Local bus: Lothian service 27 runs hourly
Your presence is the greatest gift we could ask for.
We know many of you will be traveling far to celebrate with us, and that means the world to us. Truly, we already have everything we need (and not much space to keep it).
However, if you do insist on spoiling us, we would appreciate a contribution towards our honeymoon!
But honestly? Just showing up and celebrating with us is already more than enough. ❤️