Originally from South Shields in the north-east of England, Stacey moved north to begin her career with the police, where she soon crossed paths with Ashley, who had travelled from Dingwall for the very same reason.

Introduced through a mutual friend, their first meeting was brief but memorable. Stacey remembers spotting Ashley in Marks and Spencer and instantly thinking “wow”, while a naturally quieter Ashley kept her distance from Stacey’s lively personality. It was - as they would soon discover - the perfect balance.

A work night out brought them together properly and from there, things quickly fell into place. Life in Aberdeen became the backdrop to their relationship, with the city soon feeling like home. Thoughtful, personal and with a little help from their four-legged friend.

Ashley had been planning the proposal for months, carefully choosing a ring from Beaverbrooks and waiting for the right moment. Timing proved slightly tricky when Stacey decided to redecorate the sitting room during annual leave, meaning freshly painted walls but no freshly painted nails.

The proposal took place at home, a space filled with meaning as their first home together. With music playing, rose petals scattered and champagne at the ready, Ashley asked Stacey to marry her. Unbeknown to her, Stacey had planned a romantic meal that same evening, making the moment feel even more special.

There was one final twist. The ring, hidden in their cat’s bed, was nearly discovered by their golden retriever Skye, who proudly carried the box in her mouth. A quick recovery followed, with Ashley getting down on one knee and Skye very much part of the moment.

With just over a year to plan, there was no hesitation. The couple knew they wanted to marry in Aberdeenshire, a place that would always hold meaning for them. Finding their venue felt instinctive, with Aswanley offering the relaxed barn-style setting Stacey had always imagined.

Rather than a single day, they created a full wedding experience. Family and friends gathered in the days leading up to the celebration, helping to set up the venue and spend time together. A dinner in Huntly the night before allowed everyone to meet, while a relaxed barbeque the day after gave space to reflect and relive the highlights.

Every detail was thoughtfully considered and largely created by the couple themselves. With a natural eye for design, Ashley led on styling, choosing a soft sage green palette that complemented the surroundings beautifully.

The morning preparations were calm, with excitement quietly building. Staying separately the night before kept a sense of tradition, meaning they would not see each other until the ceremony.

Ashley walked down the aisle first, waiting as Stacey made her entrance. Seeing each other for the first time was a moment neither will forget. The nerves disappeared instantly, replaced with smiles that would not fade.

Their ceremony remained traditional, focusing on the meaning of the moment itself. Surrounded by family, friends and Skye, they said “I do” in a setting that felt entirely their own.

After a week of beautiful weather, the rain arrived just as the outdoor ceremony was due to begin. Plans quickly changed and everything moved indoors, with sunshine returning soon after, carrying the celebrations through the rest of the day.

Food played an important role, reflecting their love of good food and time spent together. A charcuterie-style starter was followed by paella cooked outdoors, bringing a sense of theatre to the celebration. Dessert combined almond cake, Scottish ice cream and churros, offering something a little different while still feeling familiar.

Speeches brought both laughter and emotion, with Ashley surprising Stacey with a heartfelt poem, including the words “forever partners in crime”, a line that will always stay with them.

Their first dance to Weight of Your World by Chris Stapleton captured everything they feel for one another and marked the beginning of the evening celebrations.

For Stacey and Ashley, the highlight was simple. Standing together, surrounded by those closest to them, knowing they had reached this point together.

Their advice is to enjoy every moment. The planning and the day itself pass quickly, but what remains is something far more lasting: a shared beginning and a lifetime of memories still to come.

Stacey & Ashley's Little White Book

Cake: Made by a family friend

Food: Lovely Paella

Hair: Zoe Gordon

Make-up: Steph M Artistry

Photographer: Zoe Rae

Piper: Alba Bagpipes

Tan: Claire Garden Makeup
& Spray Tans

Videographer: Larissa, IK Photo & Video

Wedding attire: Sister of Grace Newcastle
(Stacey)