The hours, days, and weeks following an engagement are nothing short of a whirlwind. It’s a joyous time, filled with love…and a growing to-do list! Even if you’ve spent years swooning over wedding movies or curating Pinterest boards, nothing truly prepares you for the reality of planning your big day. But don’t let it overwhelm you; Rosebery Estates is here to help you every step of the way. With decades of wedding planning experience, our sales team have created this step-by-step guide to help newly engaged couples navigate the planning process with ease. So, take a deep breath, pour yourself a glass of something bubbly, and let’s get started on the first chapter of your happily-ever-after.

1. Celebrate and Share the News

So where to begin? The moment you say “yes”, you’re likely to be swept up in a whirlwind of excitement, and rightly so! So, before diving headfirst into the intricacies of planning, it is time to give this moment the enthusiasm and excitement it warrants.

One of the loveliest first steps is sharing the news with those closest to you. Whether it’s calling your family to hear their excitement, hosting an elegant engagement party at a charming venue such as Rosebery House, or enjoying a quiet evening with your fiancé, toasting your future together.

2. List Your Expectations and Priorities

Now it is time to outline the big picture elements of your wedding. Begin with the guest list – will it be an intimate gathering of your closest family and friends or a more expansive celebration? The size of your guest list will naturally influence many other decisions.

Next, turn your attention to the budget. Have a conversation about what is feasible and where your priorities lie – be it an elegant venue, fine dining, or exquisite florals.

Finally, consider the location. Will you exchange vows close to home or does your vision lead you to a romantic destination? Scotland provides a stunning backdrop for weddings whether it be a historic castle, or countryside haven – but we may be biased!

3. Research and Book Your Venue

The venue is the cornerstone of your wedding day – it sets the tone, anchors your date, and brings your vision to life. Before committing to a date, begin by researching venues that resonate with your style.

If you're seeking a venue with timeless beauty and a sense of occasion, look no further than Rosebery Estates. For those dreaming of a wedding steeped in history or a coastal venue, Barnbougle Castle provides a striking backdrop of grandeur and elegance. If rustic charm is more your style, Rosebery Steading offers a warm and inviting retreat. In parallel, Rosebery House, with its classic elegance, is the perfect choice for a sophisticated and refined affair.


4. Save The Date

Now it’s time to secure your date! If a meaningful date holds special significance, be sure to secure it early, as popular venues and dates fill quickly.

Consider the season and its influence on your day. Spring offers fresh blooms and garden charm, summer brings warmth and long evenings, autumn exudes golden hues, and winter lends itself to candlelit elegance.

At Rosebery Steading, you can make the most of your chosen season with an exclusive two-day hire, giving you the time and space to truly savour every moment.

5. Plan Your Theme

With your venue secured and date chosen, it’s time to breathe life into your vision. Your theme ties everything together, with florals and décor, creating the atmosphere you want – be it romantic, rustic, or grand.

Take inspiration from your venue’s character. Rosebery Steading lends itself to rustic elegance, while Barnbougle Castle radiates timeless grandeur. Gather ideas from blogs, mood boards, and your personal style - soft pastels, bold jewel tones, or classic neutrals.

Let your theme reflect your love story and include personal touches to make it uniquely yours. This is your chance to dream, so enjoy bringing your vision to life!

6. Create a Planning Timetable

The simplest way to stay on top of wedding planning is to create a master to-do list and tackle it one task at a time, relishing the satisfaction of ticking items off as you go. Not only will this keep you organised, but also ensures no detail is overlooked.

7. Find the Perfect Attire

Arguably one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning is selecting what you’ll wear on your big day. For brides, the magic of stepping into bridal boutiques, trying on exquisite gowns, and sipping champagne with loved ones creates memories to treasure.

For grooms, there’s equal excitement in finding a perfectly tailored suit - or, for a truly Scottish touch, donning the family tartan in the form of a traditional kilt. Few things rival the sense of heritage and pride that comes with wearing your clan’s colours on such a momentous occasion.

8. Make Memories

It is also worth thinking about how you want to remember your wedding day. Photography and videography are musts however there are several alternative ways to remember your big day. Whether this be a memory box to be filled with cards from guests, dried boutonnieres and polaroid snaps or a simple guest book blank and ready to be filled with well-wishes to the newlyweds.

9. Celebrate the "Little Wins"

Amidst the whirlwind of wedding planning, don’t forget to pause and celebrate the little victories along the way. Found the perfect venue? Toast to it! Checked off your guest list? That’s worth a celebratory dinner. These small milestones are what make the planning process as memorable as the big day itself.

Thankfully, with Rosebery’s planners by your side, much of the stress is lifted from your shoulders. Their expertise and guidance allow you to focus on what truly matters, enjoying the journey, savouring each decision, and embracing the excitement of what’s to come.

10. The Honeymoon

After months of planning, celebrating, and navigating the joyful chaos of wedding preparations, it’s time to look forward to a well-deserved escape – the honeymoon. Imagine unwinding on a golden beach, strolling hand in hand through charming cities, or retreating to a countryside hideaway.

A little browsing never hurt anyone, so get comfortable and let yourself get swept up in the possibilities. Wherever you choose to go, your honeymoon is the final flourish to your celebrations and the perfect start to your next chapter together.

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If you are ready to start planning your dream day, reach out to the Rosebery Estates team and let us help make your wedding journey as special as the day itself.