A Wild Scottish Elopement at the Linn of Quoich, Braemar | Shannon & Kevin

Shannon & Kevin’s Scottish Highlands elopement at the Linn of Quoich was the kind of day that reminds you exactly why elopements are so powerful. Taking place in August during a named storm, this intimate wedding unfolded within Mar Lodge Estate near Braemar, surrounded by dramatic scenery, wind-swept rain, and a deep sense of meaning.

This wasn’t just a wedding I photographed — I was also one of their witnesses and signed the marriage register, making the day even more special to be part of.

A Scottish Highlands Elopement at the Linn of Quoich

The Linn of Quoich is one of the most striking elopement locations in the Scottish Highlands. With its deep rocky gorge, fast-moving river, and ancient woodland, it feels raw, secluded, and timeless — perfect for couples wanting something intimate and untraditional.

On the day Shannon & Kevin married, the Highlands showed off their wild side. Heavy rain swept through the glen, the wind moved constantly through the trees, and the river surged below us. Rather than dampening the mood, the weather became part of the story — dramatic, emotional, and completely unforgettable.

Getting Married During a Named Storm in Braemar

There’s something incredibly grounding about exchanging vows outdoors during a storm. Wrapped in waterproofs between moments, laughing through the rain, Shannon & Kevin stood together with total calm and certainty.

Their ceremony was small, personal, and full of warmth — proof that a rainy Scottish elopement can be just as magical (if not more so) than one under blue skies. Being trusted not only to photograph the day but to stand beside them as a witness was an honour I’ll always remember.

A Personal Touch: The Bride Baked Her Own Wedding Cake

One of the most meaningful details of the day was the wedding cake itself. Shannon — the daughter of a fellow wedding photographer friend of mine — baked her own wedding cake, adding another layer of intention and love to an already deeply personal celebration.

Sharing cake together after the ceremony felt less like a formal tradition and more like a quiet moment among friends and family — exactly what an intimate elopement should be.

Sheltering from the Rain at Picnic Cottage, Mar Lodge Estate

As the storm intensified, we took shelter inside the newly restored Picnic Cottage, tucked away within Mar Lodge Estate. The contrast between the wild weather outside and the warmth inside couldn’t have been more perfect.

Here, the pace slowed. We dried off, laughed, shared cake, and let the Highlands do what they do best outside the door. Picnic Cottage was the ideal backup for a wet-weather elopement — proof that even the wildest Scottish days can still feel cosy and calm.

Why the Linn of Quoich Is Perfect for an Elopement

For couples dreaming of a Scottish Highlands elopement, the Linn of Quoich offers privacy, drama, and flexibility — especially when paired with nearby shelter like Picnic Cottage. Whether the weather is calm or stormy, the landscape here carries so much presence that very little else is needed.

Shannon & Kevin’s elopement wasn’t about perfect conditions. It was about connection, trust, and choosing each other — even when the rain came down sideways.

Final Thoughts on This Braemar Elopement

This day was wild, emotional, and quietly beautiful. From storm-soaked vows to sheltering together in a little cottage, every moment felt real and intentional. Being part of Shannon & Kevin’s elopement — not just as their photographer, but as a witness — is something I’ll always treasure.

If you’re planning an intimate elopement near Braemar or Mar Lodge Estate, the Linn of Quoich is a location that offers everything: scenery, seclusion, and the freedom to embrace whatever the Highlands decide to give you.

Is the Linn of Quoich a good place to elope? Yes — the Linn of Quoich near Braemar is an ideal location for a Scottish Highlands elopement. It offers dramatic scenery, privacy, and nearby shelter at Picnic Cottage, making it perfect even in wet or stormy weather.

For more Scottish Elopement inspiration check out: Top 5 recommendations for Epic Elopement locations in Scotland Suppliers

Venues: Linn of Quioch, Braemar Lodge Estate

Celebrant: Elaine @ Aberdeenshire Registrars