There was no ring exchange at this fairytale Scottish elopement

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story36 — Photos by Joy Story

When Clare and James decided to have an elopement with a no ring exchange in less than two months, they didn't have much time to plan. But you'd never know that based on these incredible photos (captured by Joy Story)! This lakeside (or loch-side, as the Scots say) civil partnership elopement (a different type of union available in Scotland) featured a flower QUEEN in a gorgeous lace dress, an exchange of gifts instead of rings (we LOVE what Clare gave James… a gift that keeps on giving, you might say), and a quaint and elegant forest picnic fit for a couple of fairies. All that on top of STUNNING views. Don’t be surprised if you’re looking at plane tickets to Scotland by the end of this post!

They said “yes” to no ring exchange & YES to the dress

When you plan your elopement with less than two months until the day, figuring out what to wear could be a little stressful. But luckily, Clare already had the PERFECT thing in her closet… an ultra-feminine, champagne lace dress covered in dainty little flowers that felt like it was made for an elopement in the Scottish Highlands! Clare’s flower crown complemented her floral dress beautifully – but this gal isn’t just gorgeous… she’s also practical and prepared. Since the weather in Scotland is a little unpredictable, Clare wanted another layer with her and opted for a custom denim jacket that adds the perfect pop of color and a little edge to her elopement look! And, given the couple had a bit of a hike up to their ceremony spot, practical shoes were a must – and she rocked it!

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story13

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story1

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story6

See what this bride gave her lover at this no ring exchange elopement

Put a ring on it? How about a necklace instead, or a… tin whistle? Clare and James opted to forego a ring exchange during their ceremony and exchanged gifts instead. James gave Clare a special necklace from a Scottish designer. Clare gifted James a new tin whistle – a hobby he picked up during the pandemic lockdown. James then serenaded Clare with two songs – “Haste to the Wedding” and “Rattlin’ Bog” – both oh so appropriate considering they eloped to a boggy area! Apparently, it’s impossible to play the tin whistle in any sort of breeze, but luckily the wind held off so James could have his moment to shine!

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story14

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story17

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story18

Of course there were NOMS at this no ring exchange elopement

Clare and James’ festivities ended with the picnic of our DREAMS. The couple celebrated their union with a quaint and elegant picnic tucked away in the forest, right next to some waterfalls… I mean, what could get more romantic than that? The set-up and spread truly looks like it’s out of a fairy tale. We especially love the eucalyptus and floral arrangements that thread the floral elements of the ceremony through to the “after party” – and the personalized cookies! If you’re not looking for a big reception at your wedding (or perhaps any reception at all), you might want to take a page out of Clare and James’ book!

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story46

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story41

elopement with a non ring exchange Joy Story44

This Scottish elopement with no ring exchange gave us the travel bug

Don’t tell us you aren’t thinking about going to Scotland after seeing the photos from Clare and James’ elopement… but in the meantime, we are feeling *inspired* by the simplicity and elegance of their special day. And planned in two months to boot! Congrats, Clare and James! Thanks for sharing a little slice of your love with us!