Describe the best wedding that happened at Colstoun House?
Every wedding so far has been different, I would say that each of them has had best bits. I loved when our first bride didn't realise that she didn't have 'something old' 'something blue' or 'something borrowed' so my mother lent the bride a sapphire ring that had been given to my great aunt at her wedding. I loved when the second couples' wedding car broke down so my dad raced to the church to pick them up in his car. I loved seeing Ewan and Christina getting soaked by a surprise thunderstorm when they were out having their photos taken in the grounds, they ran under a tree to get away from the rain and it was the first time that day they were able to be alone, the sneaky pics taken by the photographer with the long distance lens really showed how happy they were (even though they were soaking!). I loved when our most recent couple insisted that we join them for the party.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Do what you feel is right. Its your day, not your mothers and not your fathers. If you want to have 20 friends only... then only have 20 friends, if you want to go crazy and have a wedding cake made of cheese then do that! Like I say to almost everyone who comes to view the place... We think Every Wedding Venue in Scotland is our competition, and at the same point none are, and thats because we want our couples to walk in the door and feel that Colstoun is the only one that is right for them. If your wedding day is planned around what you feel is right for you guys then it will be one of the best days of your life.
What’s your favourite personal touch you’ve seen at a wedding?
One of our brides named each of the tables after a Clan that was important to her and her new husband. Her clan, her new clan, her mothers clan. They met at Colstoun, so they also included the Brouns, the Sinclairs, and the Lindsays. Each of the tables was decorated in that clans tartan, the flowers had clan ribbons in them, and the napkins were tied up with tartan too. It was really beautiful.
Describe Colstoun House in 5 adjectives
rustic, luxurious, friendly, real, and warm
Where’s the best photo spot at Colstoun House?
on the rhododendron walk, looking back towards the house. When the flowers are in bloom, or the middle of winter there is an amazing view of the house which somehow always seems to be lit by the sun.
Have you had any celebrity guest or wedding at Colstoun House?
We've had quite a few famous faces at Colstoun, but I guess thats to be expected as we've been around for over 900 years! We dont name names, but if you come over you're more than welcome to have a flick through our visitors book!
What’s your favourite canapé?
Mini yorkshire puds with roe- venison fillet, redcurrant jelly and horseradish sauce... a different take on an oldie but a goodie
What’s your favourite midnight treat?
Hog Roast.... can't top that!
What is Colstoun House most unique feature?
ummmm I think that would have to be the fact that we're 900 years old...
What part of your business are you most proud of?
We've done it as a family.