From start to finish David was superb 👌 fully recommend.  The quality off the photographs and the beautiful photo album 5 ⭐️

Tracy & Keith

Thank you for everything and for being part of our special day. You were great with my grandkids at the hotel and were very patient with us all and so professional, amazing at what you do and our album is beautiful. Will highly recommend you.

Elaine & Colin

What can I say about David, for a start he is a cracking guy with a sense of humor he is very passionate when it comes to his work the pictures speak for themselves, thanks so much for being part of our special day.  We would highly recommend David. thanks, Steph and Kim 😁

Steph & Kim

Firstly I'd like to say that we had the most amazing day with David as our photographer! He was with us from start to finish. At times we didn't know he was there as he was in and around us all sneaking photos here and there! So if anyone is camera shy you won't know he is there. 
As a bride he made me feel at ease, he made everything seem so easy and included every moment! Our pictures are outstanding and of course, our album which is like no other I've seen before. 
His work is just simply amazing We a so glad he was ours for the day and would love and recommend to anyone who needs a photographer for any reason to use him you won't be disappointed! 
Thanks David - Mr & Mrs Gray x

Angela & Stuart

We had David do the photography for our wedding day.  He was very informative on the run up and very good at communicating with us and keeping us informed of everything.  On the day he was a pleasure to have around while we were all getting ready and made things fun and lighthearted which really helped decrease the stress levels.  He took some amazing pictures that he had made into a beautiful album for us that we will enjoy looking back at in years to come. We would 100 % recommend David for capturing your special moments on your special day!

Alyson & Tom

Janine and I are absolutely thrilled with our wedding photography. David has been with us from the beginning of our journey straight to our special day.  During this time he has been incredibly kind, caring and considerate as well as offering invaluable, professional advice in a relaxed manner. David has been able to capture beautiful candid photographs as well as gorgeous portraits of us and our loved ones. It’s these special moments that we will treasure forever.  We highly recommend him.  Thank you David

Janine & Lee

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This package is designed for the smaller Ceremony, where your wedding party may just be family &amp; a couple of close friends.Typically Bride &amp; Groom opt for this package for a quick Wedding at a registry office then head off for a meal at a local restaurant.When the couple's ceremony is in my local city of Edinburgh, we can slip off to a local beauty spot to take a few Bride and groom Portraits.Approximately 4 hours. If after reading this you are interested in booking, we can arrange a call with absolutely no obligation to book. We can have a chat to see if I am a good fit for your big day.

The Intimate Wedding Package

This package has everything required to tell your wedding day story, minus the bride preparations that The Full Experience Package offers.As the package name suggests The Arrival Shoot covers your arrival to the ceremony venue, whether that be a castle, church, or hotel. The ceremony itself captures the excitement and emotions of your family and of courseThe bride &amp; groom ceremony. Then portraits of friends, family, and naturally the bridal party.Soon after it will be time to photograph the reception speeches, cake cutting, and first dance.

The Arrival Package

Welcome to the Full Experience Package, the perfect way to capture all of your special moments and make them last a lifetime. As an experienced photographer, I will be on-site for up to 12 hours, ensuring that all of your special memories are captured from bride prep to the first dance. During the ceremony, I will be sure to take stunning photos of your full wedding party, and the ceremony itself, as well as candid shots of your guests. I will also remain at the reception to capture speeches, the cutting of the cake, and all of the other special moments of your big day.I offer royalty-free images, so you can use the photos for whatever you’d like without worrying about copyright issues. With this package, you can expect to receive between 250 and 400 photos, all of which will be delivered to you via my online service.My Full Experience Package is the perfect way to ensure that all of your special memories are captured, and you can view them for years to come. Consider booking your wedding photographer today and let me help you create memories that will last forever.

The Full Experience Package

The Focal Essentials All You Need Plan lets you create a beautiful business website with the power of AI. Create Packages, Pricing pages and Blogs. Make booking easy for your client with Focal's Booking System. 5TB of Gallery Storage.

All You Need (Website + Booking System) Plan

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Wedding Venue Spotlight: 
The Stair Arms Hotel, Pathhead, Midlothian
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 So, you're in the midst of wedding planning, and choosing the right venue is a crucial decision. 
As a seasoned wedding photographer familiar with the Midlothian area, I'm here to shed light on The Stair Arms Hotel in Pathhead. 
This blog will address some of the key questions you might have to help you make an informed decision for your big day.
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Capacity: 
Wedding Guests: 100
Evening Reception: Additional 30
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Wedding Coordinators:
Yes, three dedicated coordinators: Clare, Amanda, and Rosie, ensuring every detail aligns with your vision.
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Parking:
Approximately 30 spaces available.
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Disabled Access:
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.
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Confetti:
Allowed, but only outside.
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Music and Entertainment:
Room for a band or DJ, but if both are desired, the guest capacity should be below 100.
Standard hardwood dance floor provided; LED dance floor arrangements need to be made separately.
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Fireworks:
Unfortunately, fireworks are not permitted.
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PA for Speeches:
Yes, a PA system is available for speeches.
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Gift Storage:
A secure room is provided for wedding gifts.
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Bridal Suites:
Two luxurious bridal suites for the bride and groom.
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Overnight Rooms:
12 rooms available for overnight stays.
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Discounts:
10% discount on the venue rate at the time of press.
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Breakfast:
Breakfast is included for overnight guests.
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Checkout Time:
Checkout at 11 am.
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Room Reservations for Guests:
Rooms are held by the hotel for the couple to allocate to guests.
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Catering:
The venue provides catering, known for its amazing quality.
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BYO Wine and Champagne:
Yes, but be prepared to pay corkage fees.
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Reception End Time:
The bar closes at 1 am, marking the end of the reception festivities.
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By answering these pertinent questions, The Stair Arms Hotel demonstrates its commitment to ensuring your wedding day is not only beautiful but also stress-free.
Stay tuned for more venue spotlights that might help you find the perfect setting for your special day!
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Take a look at their website
<a href="https://stairarmshotel.com/">The Stair Arms Hotel</a>
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Wedding Venue Spotlight

Introduction
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Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments of your life, and meticulous planning is the key to ensuring it unfolds seamlessly. 
From choosing the perfect venue to finding the right vendors, creating a well-thought-out timeline is essential for a stress-free and memorable celebration. 
In this guide, we'll explore some essential tips for brides to consider when establishing timelines for their big day.
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<ol>
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Start Early: Begin the planning process as early as possible. Venues and popular vendors can get booked up quickly, so securing your desired options well in advance is crucial. Starting early allows you to have a wider range of choices and helps you avoid last-minute stress.
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Venue Selection: Choosing the right venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. Confirm your venue early on to secure your preferred date. Once you have a venue locked in, you can move forward with planning other crucial details like catering, decor, and guest accommodations.
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Set a Realistic Budget: Establish a budget early in the planning process and prioritize your spending. Knowing your financial constraints will guide your decisions on everything from the guest list to the choice of vendors. Stick to your budget to avoid unnecessary stress as the big day approaches.
</li>
<li>
Create a Detailed Timeline: Work closely with your wedding planner or coordinator to create a detailed timeline for the entire day. This should include everything from the start of hair and makeup to the moment you say your vows and the last dance. Having a well-organized timeline ensures that everyone involved is on the same page, reducing the risk of delays or confusion.
</li>
<li>
Vendor Coordination: Communicate with your vendors regularly and confirm all details well in advance. Ensure that they are aware of the schedule and have everything they need to deliver their services seamlessly. This includes photographers, florists, caterers, and entertainment. Confirm arrival times, setup requirements, and any specific requests you may have.
</li>
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Hair and Makeup Trials: Schedule hair and makeup trials ahead of time. This not only ensures that you're happy with your chosen look but also helps you estimate the time needed on the wedding day. Factor in extra time for any unexpected delays to keep the morning stress-free.
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Dress Fittings and Alterations: Plan your dress fittings and alterations with ample time to spare. This allows for any necessary adjustments and ensures that your dress fits perfectly on the big day. Consider scheduling a final fitting close to the wedding date to accommodate any changes in your body shape.
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RSVP Deadline: Set a clear RSVP deadline for your guests. This will help you finalize the guest list, provide accurate numbers to vendors, and ensure that everyone has a seat on your special day.
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Rehearsal Dinner: Plan a rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding. This provides an opportunity for everyone in the bridal party to familiarize themselves with the venue and the ceremony flow. It's also a chance for you to relax and enjoy the company of close friends and family before the big day.
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Backup Plans: Be prepared for the unexpected. Whether it's unexpected weather changes, vendor issues, or other unforeseen circumstances, having backup plans in place will help you stay calm and focused on enjoying your day, no matter what comes your way.
</li>
</ol>
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Conclusion:
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Creating a well-structured timeline is an essential aspect of planning a wedding. By starting early, communicating effectively with vendors,
and considering every detail, you can ensure that your wedding day unfolds smoothly and becomes the magical experience you've always dreamed of.
Remember, meticulous planning is the key to a stress-free and unforgettable celebration of love.
Good luck with a beautiful wedding day and a lifetime of happiness!

David J Gillan Wedding Photographer

Tips For Planning Your Wedding

What a splendid day it was, brimming with a vivacious energy apart from the sun which was hiding itself in parts of the day. Karen and Darrell had planned their wedding with an infectious enthusiasm that was hard not to get caught up in. Their joy permeated the air, a tangible happiness that was shared by everyone present. They had chosen to embark on the journey of marriage, all set to weave a beautiful tapestry of memories on their big day. And what a perfect venue had they chosen to say their vows! The quirky and fun <a href="https://www.charltonhall.co.uk/weddings/">Charlton Hall</a> in Northumberland served as the backdrop for their nuptials. With its unique appeal, it was as if the venue was an extension of Karen and Darrell's personalities. A place where tradition met whimsy, the hall was a testament to their love story, an enchanting setting that mirrored their vibrant spirits. 
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Here are a few of their Wedding Photos of their day

Dad's First Look

The First Look is a beautiful tradition from the United States that has now found a home here in the UK.
The First Look. This special tradition allows the bride's father to be the first to see his daughter, resplendent in her white wedding dress. As an empathetic photographer, I understand the depth of emotion this moment holds.
I take it upon myself to capture this tender exchange in its full glory, preserving for eternity the bond between a father and his daughter on her most special day.

The Ceremony
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Welcome to this enchanting ceremony, the apex of romance and whimsy that ensures an unforgettable setting for my bride &amp; groom.
Encapsulated by the soft, dreamy glow of fairy lights, from floor to ceiling, every corner of the room is bathed in a tender
luminescence that paints a picture of idyllic romance. This, Karen &amp; Darrell, was the perfect backdrop for their vows.

The Portraits

The Reception

Time for the bride &amp; groom to relax after the stresses that a wedding day can produce.
Great to see their friends and family witness the speeches and cake cutting, not to mention dancing till the early hours.

Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to both Karen and Darrell. It was truly an absolute delight to have the opportunity to be a part of your wedding day.
As your dedicated photographer, every moment spent capturing your joyous celebration was pure pleasure.
You two really know how to throw a party, and your love for one another shone through every photograph. Your laughter, your smiles, those glances exchanged when you thought no one was looking - those are the moments that make my job worthwhile.
Each captured memory is a testament to your unique love story, and it was sincerely my honor to translate those moments into everlasting shots. As we journeyed together through your special day, from the quiet anticipation during the bride's preparation,
right through to the jubilant first dance, every moment was a testament to the love and joy that you both share.
The camaraderie of your wedding party, the heartfelt ceremony, and the candid expressions of your guests,
each one was a unique moment frozen in time, thanks to the power of photography. From the reception, where speeches were delivered with emotion and the cake was cut amid cheers,
to the smaller intimate moments that may have otherwise gone unnoticed, my lens was there to capture it all. With the Full Experience Package, I was able to deliver a collection of over 300, all without any copyright concerns, thanks to our royalty-free image policy.
These images were all delivered via my seamless online service, making it easy for you to access and share your special memories. I am humbled by this opportunity and wish you both all the happiness that life has to offer.
Here's to many more years of joy, laughter, and love. Being a part of your wedding day was an honor,
and I hope that the images I captured will serve as precious mementos for the years to come. Once again, thank you, Karen and Darrell. I wish you nothing but happiness in your journey together.
Your wedding was a beautiful celebration of love and I am grateful to have been a part of it. Best wishes, David J Gillan, your Wedding Photographer.

Karen & Darrells' Wedding Day

This is a Slideshow product that customers can add to their package.

Emma & Luke's Wedding Day

Welcome to the Full Experience Package, the perfect way to capture all of your special moments and make them last a lifetime. 

Our experienced photographer will be on-site for up to 12 hours, ensuring that all of your special memories are captured from bride prep to the first dance. During the ceremony, we will be sure to take stunning photos of your full wedding party, and the ceremony itself, as well as candid shots of your guests. We will also remain at the reception to capture speeches, the cutting of the cake, and all of the other special moments of your big day.

We offer royalty-free images, so you can use the photos for whatever you’d like without worrying about copyright issues. With this package, you can expect to receive between 300 and 500 photos, all of which will be delivered to you via our online service.

Our Full Experience Package is the perfect way to ensure that all of your special memories are captured, and you can view them for years to come. Consider booking your wedding photographer today and let us help you create memories that will last forever.

Wedding Ring.jpg

Edinburgh, UK

David John Gillan

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A beautiful wedding ceremony recently happened at The Stair Arms Hotel near Edinburgh. Angela and Stuart, who have been together for 25 years, finally tied the knot. It was a special day filled with love and joy. As the couple exchanged their vows, I, as their wedding photographer, had the privilege of capturing every precious moment.
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I couldn't help but admire the stunning backdrop of the venue's grounds, which added an extra touch of elegance to the occasion.
Being a wedding photographer in Edinburgh, I have witnessed many couples embark on their lifelong journey together.
Each wedding is unique in its own way, and Angela and Stuart's celebration was no exception.
It was a beautiful reflection of their love story and the bond they had nurtured over the years.
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The Stair Arms Hotel provided the perfect setting for this momentous day. Located in Pathhead, near Edinburgh, it has become a popular choice for couples looking for a picturesque venue to say their "I dos".
The hotel's serene surroundings and well-maintained gardens provided numerous opportunities for capturing stunning wedding photographs.
As a photographer based in the nearby areas of Dalkeith, Gorebridge, and Bonnyrigg,
I had the pleasure of working in various locations throughout Scotland.
However, The Stair Arms Hotel holds a special place in my heart due to its beauty and inherent charm.
Angela and Stuart's wedding was a testament to the power of love and commitment.
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Despite the long wait, their dedication to one another never wavered.
It was an honor for me to be part of their special day, preserving their cherished memories through my lens.
If you are considering your own wedding in the near future, I hope this blog post has given you some inspiration.
As a wedding photographer, I bring my passion and expertise to every event, capturing the essence and emotions of your big day.
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Whether you choose to walk down the aisle at The Stair Arms Hotel or any other location in Edinburgh or Scotland,
I would be honored to document your love story.
David J Gillan Photography is dedicated to creating timeless wedding photographs that will be cherished for years to come.
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Contact me to discuss your wedding photography needs, and let's capture your special moments together.
Bride preparations take up most of the morning, during this time there is excitement in the air along with laughs and moments between the bridal party and family members.
There also might be some prosecco being drunk to ease the nerves, but at the end of the Bride Prep, the first look can be quite special.
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Angela & Stuart's Wedding Day

August 5th, 2023

Click on what you'd like to learn more about.

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