From Colleagues to Soulmates: Lesley & Ross’s Love Story
This was my first time capturing a wedding at the iconic Gleneagles—and I truly hope it won’t be the last.
Love is the water of life.
Sometimes love takes the scenic route.
Lesley and Ross first met nine years ago at Scottish Water, working in the same team. There was an easy connection from the start—shared laughs over team meetings, inside jokes, and the kind of camaraderie that makes the 9-to-5 a little more bearable. But timing, as they say, is everything, and back then life had other plans. Lesley was in a relationship, and whatever spark might have been flickering quietly between them was tucked away in the background.
Years passed. Life moved on. And then—fate stepped in for a second go.
By a twist of serendipity, they found themselves working together again. Same company. Same team. But this time, everything had changed. Life had written new chapters for both of them, and the spark that once waited patiently was ready to catch fire.
It took just one cheeky text—sent after a night out and a glass (or two) of courage—for everything to fall into place. That message was the first step on a journey that led to love, laughter, two beautiful children, and a bond that felt both inevitable and entirely perfect.
And so, with a shared history and a future they couldn’t wait to build, Lesley and Ross decided to do things their way—no fuss, no big production. Just the two of them, eloping in a way that was true to their story: quietly magical, full of heart, and sealed with all the love that had been nine years in the making.
Gleneagles For The Win
It may have been an elopement, but Lesly and Ross weren’t sacrificing quality or style. They wanted to enjoy their day to the max and were better to do that than the glorious playground that is The Gleneagles Hotel.
Sweet Suite
Lesley and Ross booked one of Gleneagles’ beautiful suites. That way, if the weather didn’t behave, the ceremony could be held in the lounge area. However, on the day the sun was beaming out of the sky and they were able to have the outside ceremony they wanted in the secluded and private kitchen garden.
Ross looked very dapper in his kilt. Whilst he waited for Lesley to arrive, he confessed that after being bestman 4 times for mates, deciding who would be his bestman had given him the fear of upsetting people! This way, he hoped that no one would mind too much.
Here Comes The Bride
Despite getting ready in the same room, Ross was dispatched to the gardens before Lesley put her dress on so it was a surprise to him.
Lesley looked absolutely stunning as she walked towards Ross. Not only was her dress gorgeous – it had pockets!!!
Ross hadn’t been nervous or emotional in the run-up to the ceremony…until he turned and saw Lesley in her wedding dress. Then he teared up.
Gleneagles Garden in Bloom
With the glorious weather we had so many options across the Gleneagles estate for photos. The grounds, the lakes, the fountain. Lucky for me, Lesley and Ross were game to head all over with me!
First stop was a cherry blossom tree full of pink petals. As Lesley said it looked like confetti had been sprinkled on the ground.
Then we had to get some photos by the iconic Gleneagles fountain. I also wanted to show off Lesley’s pockets, because, well, come on…pockets!!
Now, don’t get me wrong, I do love a big wedding but Elopements…especially at somewhere as special as this are my absolute fave. No guests to corral into group shots and loads of time to wander about with my bride and groom creating memories for them.
Inside Matters Too
Much as I could have spent all day in those grounds. The inside of Gleneagles is also a feast for photo opportunities.
I particularly wanted to get some images in The American Bar before it opened to the public and the lovely staff at Gleneagles obliged me.
Decadent, opulent and more than a little grown up it was the perfect setting to add some variety into my couples gallery.
Luckily for me Lesley and Ross were such good sports. When I asked Lesley to hop up on the bar in her dress – she obliged!
Final Thoughts
It is always an honour to be asked to capture the memories from a couple’s big day. But when you are one of the witnesses and one of the few people in on the secret, well, it is even more special. I know I say it all the time – but I really do have the best job in the world.
Congratulations again Mr & Mrs Brand xXx
