There’s something truly special about working alongside fellow wedding suppliers—especially here in the Highlands, where the creative community is tight-knit, supportive, and always up for a little magic.
At one particular wedding fair, things were a bit quieter than expected. But as it turns out, a slower day can spark the best ideas. While chatting with Lauren @magicmomentsstudio_photofilm, I casually mentioned wanting some showstopping images for social media and marketing—something bold, dreamy, and impossible to scroll past. She lit up instantly, and before we knew it, ideas were flying.
A few weeks later, Lauren and Alexandra, @alexandra_bespoke, circled back with a vision that absolutely blew me away: an enchanted woodland picnic with an Alice in Wonderland twist. And not just any shoot—this one had legs, as Lauren put it. She wasn’t lying. Normally, a styled shoot might involve a photographer, a model or two, hair and makeup, some flowers, and a venue. But this one? It was a full-blown production.
We had a videographer (drone and all), a live illustrator, event lighting, hand-crafted invitations, hair accessories, a tablescape straight out of a storybook—complete with cups, saucers, and picture perfect cake—and SO many flowers. It was like every corner of a fairytale had come to life.
The location? That was my suggestion: Reeling Glen. It’s one of my favourite woodland escapes, a peaceful spot I often visit with my family. Nestled near Beauly, this ancient forest is known for its majestic Douglas firs and rich history. Once owned by the Fraser family for over 500 years, it’s believed that Scottish explorer James Baillie Fraser (1783–1856) planted the tallest trees himself. He even modeled the now-iconic stone bridge on one he saw in Ravenna Gorge, Italy. That very bridge became a central feature of our shoot, where the talented illustrator Hannah captured the models live.
And just when we thought we’d captured every angle, we switched up the hairstyle for a second look—because why not? The transformation added a whole new layer of whimsy, and it felt like watching a fairytale unfold in chapters. The finishing touch? A stunning kilt hire from Ben Wyvis Kilts, adding that unmistakable Highland flair.
As the evening wore on, we took full advantage of the late Highland sunset. Shooting later meant fewer people in the woods and more space for us to work our magic. Highland Castle Entertainment lit up the glen with an ethereal glow, transforming the forest into a glowing dreamscape. It was pure enchantment.
This shoot was a true testament to what can happen when creatives come together with wild ideas, open hearts, and just a little bit of forest magic. It wasn’t just a styled shoot—it was a full-on fairytale brought to life.
A huge thank you to our models, Chloe and Thomas.
Hair by @bridal_hair_by_natasha
Make up by @katmcmahonhairandbeauty
Photography by @magicmomentsstudio_photofilm
Videographer @highlens_videographer
Hair accessories @alexandra_bespoke
Flowers @flowersinfocuswithkay
Illustration @hcambridge_illustration
Lighting @hceservicesgroupltd
Invites @jmo_makes
Kilt @benwyviskilts_
