“The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.”
A Love Story Two Decades in the Making
Picture the scene: it’s 2005 in a busy Edinburgh bar. Drinks are flowing, laughter fills the air, and a boy spots a girl across the room. In a tale as old as time, Alan and Ruth get together.
Over the next 20 years, they built a life together—navigating ups and downs, blending children and grandchildren from previous relationships, and creating a family rooted in love.
One weekend, Alan surprised Ruth with a trip to Rufflets in St Andrews. While walking along the famous beach, Alan asked if he could ask a question. True to her “mother hen” nature, Ruth immediately asked if he was cold and wanted to turn back. Instead, Alan pulled out his mum’s engagement ring and asked her to marry him. Through happy tears, Ruth said yes.
(Alan insists he did propose once before, over 20 years ago—but Ruth thought he was joking!)
I know first-hand how much of a mother hen Ruth is, having worked alongside her at RBS. I also met Alan there too, so being asked to photograph their wedding felt like the greatest honour.
The Ceremony at Rufflets, St Andrews
Where else could they say “I do” but Rufflets—the very place Alan proposed? Ruth dreamed of an intimate outdoor ceremony, though two days before the wedding Storm Floris threatened to put those plans in jeopardy. Thankfully, the big day arrived with calm skies, sunshine, and not a cloud in sight.
Ruth’s grandson proudly walked her down the aisle (the same little boy I once remember racing through the RBS office as a toddler!). Alan’s granddaughter took centre stage as a beautiful flower girl.
Ruth looked effortlessly elegant, channelling Audrey Hepburn in a simple yet stunning gown paired with a colourful bouquet. Alan’s eyes never left her as she walked toward him.
The ceremony was heartfelt and personal, made even more special with the ancient Scottish tradition of pinning the tartan. Alan’s son fastened his family tartan to Ruth, welcoming her into the clan.
Celebrations in the Gardens
After the vows, both families came together to celebrate the newlyweds. I whisked Alan and Ruth into the breathtaking gardens at Rufflets for their bride and groom portraits. The setting couldn’t have been more perfect for such a romantic day.
Inside, they cut into their locally made chocolate cake—complete with a cheeky topper—before joining their guests for a relaxed, joy-filled meal.
A Personal Reflection
As I packed up my camera and headed home, I couldn’t stop smiling. Ruth and I shared so many laughs during our RBS days, often when we should have been working! To now capture her wedding day, standing beside the love of her life, felt truly special.
It was a day filled with love, laughter, and family—everything a wedding should be.
Congratulations again Mr & Mrs McClean xXx
