Intimate dark academia inspired Edinburgh wedding

As an Edinburgh wedding photographer, I’ve seen the magic this city holds for couples looking to elope, and Karenza and Cody’s summer elopement was no exception. 

Their day was wrapped in history, romance, and a little (okay, a lot of) rain- giving them a quintessentially Scottish wedding experience. 

For anyone considering an intimate wedding in Edinburgh, their story is a testament to embracing the city’s character and turning a rainy day into a beautiful experience.

Humanist celebrant: Annalese McDermott
Accommodation & restaurant: The Witchery
Wedding venue: The Royal College of Physicians

A perfect start of the wedding day at the Witchery


Their day began in one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric and iconic hotels –The Witchery by the Castle. Nestled at the foot of Edinburgh Castle, this gothic hideaway exudes dark academia vibes. Its flickering candlelight, rich velvet drapes, and antique furnishings created a moody, romantic ambiance that was perfect for Karenza and Cody’s intimate Edinburgh wedding.


As they got ready, the room felt like something out of a novel – timeless, elegant, and steeped in history. Karenza, dressed in a stunning vintage-inspired gown, radiated old-world charm, while Cody, in his tailored tweed suit, matched the sophistication of their surroundings. The moments they shared before their ceremony were sweet, intimate, and utterly unforgettable. Their wedding look reveal was a cherry on top.

The Witchery set the tone for what would be a day filled with beauty and depth.

Intimate wedding ceremony at the Royal College of Physicians

Their ceremony took place in one of Edinburgh’s most exquisite venues, the New Library at the Royal College of Physicians. As an Edinburgh wedding photographer, I love this hidden gem in the heart of New Town. The New Library, with its towering bookshelves, intricate woodwork, and historic charm, was the perfect setting for Karenza and Cody’s vow exchange.

Led by the brilliant humanist celebrant Annalese, the ceremony was both heartfelt and intimate. Surrounded by history, Karenza and Cody exchanged vows in front of towering shelves of books, while the soft sound of rain pattered on the windows. The New Library’s rich decor and timeless elegance provided a stunning contrast to the stormy weather outside, giving the couple a warm, inviting space to celebrate their love.


Exploring Edinburgh’s rain-soaked streets

After their wedding ceremony, the three of us ventured into Edinburgh’s rain-soaked streets. The city, with its ancient stone buildings and narrow winding alleys, was glistening in the drizzle. As we wandered through Edinburgh’s Old Town, the rain added an ethereal vibe to the wedding photos, creating reflections on the cobblestones and softening the edges of the historic architecture.

The rain-soaked city became the perfect canvas for their wedding portraits. Edinburgh’s timeless charm, enhanced by the stormy weather, transformed the usual wedding day into something poetic and atmospheric. Every shot felt like a scene from a movie – romantic, mysterious, and deeply connected to the city’s storied past.

In true Scottish fashion, the rain didn’t stop for a single moment. But rather than getting in the way, the rain added a dreamy, almost otherworldly quality to Karenza and Cody’s elopement. The soft mist that hung in the air, the gentle patter of raindrops on cobblestone streets, and the diffused light that made everything glow – this weather only enhanced the romance of their day.

For couples who worry about rain on their wedding day, Karenza and Cody’s story is proof that it doesn’t have to be a problem. The rain gave us a backdrop that was soft, mysterious, and utterly captivating. The reflections on the city’s ancient streets, the misty skies over Edinburgh’s iconic architecture, and the sense of intimacy it brought to their photos made the day even more magical.

Candlelit dinner and blue hour magic

Before wrapping up their day, Karenza and Cody returned to The Witchery for a romantic, candlelit dinner. The restaurant’s enchanting ambiance was the perfect way to end their day. But before settling in for their dinner, we took advantage of the blue hour – a time when the sky takes on a deep, twilight glow.

We captured some last, intimate photos at their accommodation, letting the cozy atmosphere and the dimming light enhance their moments. This quiet time at the end of their day allowed them to reflect on their magical wedding day and dry off from the rain.

For anyone considering planning their wedding in Edinburgh, Karenza and Cody’s story is a beautiful reminder that the city’s unpredictable weather only adds to its magic. As their Edinburgh wedding photographer, I encourage couples to embrace the elements, whether it’s a misty rain or a clear sky. The character of this ancient city, with its cobblestone streets, towering architecture, and hidden gems like The Witchery and the Royal College of Physicians, makes for an unforgettable backdrop – no matter the weather.

So, if you’re dreaming of a moody, romantic and intimate Edinburgh wedding filled with history and beauty, Edinburgh is the place to be. Rain or shine, this city will provide the perfect setting for your love story.

I’m sure you’ll find my Edinburgh Elopement Guide useful when planning your wedding in the capital of Scotland. And feel free to explore more real wedding stories on my blog here.

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