This wedding at the luxury country estate in East Lothian may have happened on a Thursday, but that didn't mean it wasn't a proper party...
Madison Ray Brown and Andrew Stuart Gibson, now Mr and Mrs Gibson
3rd August 2023
Venue | Archerfield, East Lothian
Photography | Paul Govers Photography
All that money, all those guests, who’s sitting where… It’s little wonder that planning a wedding can cause sleepless nights. Not for Madison and Andrew, though, who, despite being in Texas as they organised a wedding in Scotland, felt entirely at ease. “I worried about absolutely nothing,” smiles Madison.
“The team at Archerfield took care of everything: the incredible food and drinks, the stunning ceremony and reception locations, supplier recommendations and transport across the estate for us and our guests. Everything we might have needed, they provided it. They were so attentive every step of the way.
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“Our event manager, Tracy Hood, was simply the best. She knew how badly I wanted to have our ceremony outdoors and she made it happen, even after a rainstorm the day before. I can’t thank her enough for making our dreams come true.”
Groom Andrew was born in Venezuela, grew up in Scotland, then moved to Texas to study, where he and Madison met and fell in love. “One day when we were on holiday from the States, I went to Archerfield to watch Andrew play golf (his parents are members of its club). As soon as I saw the place, I said: ‘If we ever get married, it’s going to be here.’”
The beauty of this luxurious East Lothian estate is that it can accommodate up to 136 overnight guests, so Madison and Andrew’s contingent of 100-plus guests – many of whom were travelling from overseas – could stay on-site if they wanted.
“We took exclusive use of the spectacular and regal 17th-century stately home for 30 of our closest friends and family over two nights,” reveals Madison.
Then, for the wedding itself, they hosted the ceremony on the lawn, followed by a reception at the Waterfront.
“The coastal views are unmatched at this purpose-built marquee and there’s a nearby cliff that’s a popular spot for photos. We loved the façade of the main house for photos too.”
Marrying on a weekday worked out best for the couple. “We booked a Thursday, which allowed guests to take Monday to Friday off to enjoy Scotland, and return to work the following week,” recalls the bride.
“We arrived at midday on the Wednesday, and the girls headed straight to the spa at Fletcher’s Cottage while the men took to the golf course.” According to Madison, the ceremony was “surreal and beautiful. Being able to see my groom and kiss him made me so happy.”
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She has a personal highlight too: “My mom has passed away, so my maid of honour and I had a special moment praying for her,” says Madison, who also refashioned her mum’s wedding dress into a chic jumpsuit for the evening celebrations.
“I love to dance! We had an hour of ‘normal’ dancing, followed by a ceilidh. Then, for the final hour, we had a traditional Venezuelan hora loca filled with Latin music,” she laughs. “It was such an amazing party.”
Venue, decor and food Archerfield, East Lothian
Officiant Reverend Michael Mair
Photography Paul Govers Photography
Wedding dress Unbridaled, Houston, Texas
Evening jumpsuit Made from the bride’s mother’s wedding dress
Makeup Klaudii Beauty
Hair Kerry Hunter Hair and Makeup
Bridesmaid dresses BHLDN
Groomswear McCalls Highlandwear
Cake Liggy’s Cakes
Flowers Secret Garden Events Florist
Stationery Minted
Favours “Koozies” (foam beer-can holders), made by the bride’s dad and in-laws
Engagement ring Scottish Antique and Arts Centre
Wedding rings Klein’s Jewelry, Houston
Ceremony and drinks reception music DJ David Currie, Ecosse Entertainments
Piper Theo Pratt
Reception music DJ Big Gravy
