Cinematic ethereal sunrise elopement on Skye

When we looked at the timeline for D+E’s magical sunrise elopement on the Isle of Skye, they told me they were keen to have their ceremony at sunrise. They loved the idea of seeing the first light on their wedding day and catching the Quiraing at its quietest.

The only worry was about their ‘getting ready’ photos. They asked me whether we’d be able to get nice photos while it was still dark out. And it’s a very valid concern — especially if it’s important to you to get nice photos before the ceremony to tell the full story of your day.

My advice for getting the best pre-sunrise photos is to make sure the place you are staying has character, think lots of mixed-textures. And lamps — lots of lamps.

Choosing a cinematic getting-ready location for a sunrise elopement

These two definitely got the memo on avoiding harsh midday light, creating the perfect cinematic atmosphere for their sunrise elopement on Skye. But this meant that their accommodation choice was very important for getting beautiful getting-ready photos.

D+E chose well when they stayed at Viewfield House. The warm, cosy glow from all the lamps, ornate gold frames, soft, plush sofas, and patterned curtains helped create a warm and inviting atmosphere for their morning preparations.

Vintage books added depth and character, while the dark wooden writers’ desk was the perfect spot to sit and finish writing their vows, which they wrote in gorgeous linen vow books. They then had a few tender moments together before heading out into the cold, quiet morning to exchange views. Everything about the moody quietness of the space added a cinematic movie-like feel to the morning.

The absence of daylight does make getting ready photos a bit more challenging. But with some flexible lighting options (e.g. those lamps) and interesting textures (e.g. avoiding minimalist, modern-feeling rooms), you can get some atmospheric morning photos that can add something really different and unique to your gallery.

Their bravery was rewarded by the most epic ethereal sunrise ceremony we’ve seen

It wasn’t the floodlight of orange sunlight that you might be imagining but the ethereal mix of stormy blue and orange-pink hues that seemed to battle it out throughout the whole ceremony.

Dave and I just stood, jaw-dropped, witnessing the wonder of the scene while the pair said those all-important words. We had to slap ourselves a couple of times to actually record what was happening rather than standing dumbfounded in the marvel of the whole scene.

Choosing an early sunrise elopement on Skye meant we still had plenty of time to explore

After their heartfelt ceremony, we wandered the Quiraing in the morning light (including an unintended encounter with a muddy puddle).

Instead of rushing around and trying to squeeze everything in to create an “epic adventure,” D+E took their time, soaking up the landscape in a place that they described as a home away from home.

Wrapped up and cosy in a tartan blanket, they had no desire to hurry but chose to be fully present with one another. Letting the rest of the world slowly fade away as they cuddled, talked, and embraced the magic of the moment.

After a while, we headed over to another special spot in search of faeries

We roamed Fairy Glen but sadly, no fae were found. However, there were a few more curious sheep!

After sharing a few quiet smiles and soft moments, they found a cosy spot under a Rowan Tree (known for its protection energy and symbol of strength and resilience). The couple had asked their friends and family to write them letters to open on their wedding day so they could still be with them in spirit, which was a thoughtful way to include their loved ones.

They saved a few to snuggle up and read back at their accommodation.

After all the adventuring was said and done, it was time for the couple to get warmed up, enjoy some lunch, and have a very well-earned nap!

Dreaming of your own ethereal sunrise elopement on Skye, or anywhere in Scotland?

If a quiet ethereal sunrise elopement with breathtaking landscapes sounds like your idea of an ideal wedding day then get in touch to start planning now. I’ll be there to help you figure the best time of year, ceremony location, timeline for the day, local suppliers as well as lots of advice on how to elope in Scotland.