I recently had the privilege of photographing Carmen and David’s modern Scottish wedding at the modern Double Tree Hotel in downtown Columbus, Ohio. This wedding had it all – bagpipes, a groom in a kilt, a priceless first look, and a whole lot of love! At first, I was a bit curious as to how they were going to pull off such a sophisticated wedding while wearing plaid (check out those cool groomsmen’s socks), but everything blended together seamlessly. 

Plus, this was a winter wedding, so all of the colors and textures looked gorgeous together! I love the dark green! The groom’s traditional Scottish attire looked incredible with his full kilt and plaid ensemble, plus the fur and leather sporran. Super cool! 

Beautiful First Look

Their first look was one for the books! He was obviously completely enthralled by his bride when he turned around. A first look is a great way to get some of those authentic and intimate photos you want on your wedding day. Check out some modern first look ideas below!

Carmen + David’s Columbus, Ohio Scottish Wedding

While most of the photos were taken at the gorgeous hotel, we were also able to do a couple’s shoot over at the nearby Columbus Museum of Art. As a photographer, I love it when couples think outside the box to get creative photos. I had so much fun trying out some abstract poses with them. The art museum provided several unique backgrounds and fresh angles that made the pictures colorful and exciting. It was truly a magical day filled with Scottish tradition. 

The couple met at the end of the aisle next to a beautiful flower arch and exchanged their vows before their closest friends and family. After they tied the knot, the couple danced their way back down the aisle behind the bagpiper. It was such a fun way to celebrate their marriage!

4 Modern First Look Ideas

Some couples are against seeing the bride before the ceremony, but the first look is quickly becoming a “must-do” at any modern wedding. However, there are multiple versions of this fun new tradition:

Bride + Groom First Look

Many couples tend to go with this option because it gives them a private moment together before the ceremony. The groom stands in awe of his beautiful bride, and they both share a few sweet words before tying the knot. Carmen and David had the absolute sweetest first look!

Father + Daughter First Look

This is a precious take on the first look: A father waits as his beautiful daughter walks out in her stunning wedding gown. He smiles and tells her how proud he is of the woman she has become. The two share one last hug before he walks her down the aisle and gives her away to her future husband. Can it get any more touching than that?!

Wedding Party First Look

This is a sweet moment between the bride and her bridesmaids. Everyone has been dying to see the bride in all of her glowing glory. As she walks out, all the ladies squeal in excitement as they see the bride on one of the best days of her life. Hugs and laughs are shared, and the group comes together in celebration before the ceremony. For a close-knit group of ladies, this is a great way to get some very sweet girlfriend photos.

First Touch

For those who want to stick to tradition, the first touch is the perfect option. This is where the bride and groom stand on opposite sides of a door. They can speak to each other, hold hands, and exchange letters, but they will not actually see each other until the bride is walking down the aisle. It still allows for an intimate and memorable moment, and you get some really cool photos around the door.

Book Your Wedding with Mariah Today!

When it comes to your big day, it’s all about what makes you happy as a couple. Want a modern, sophisticated Scottish wedding? Go for it! Want to put a fresh spin on the first look idea? Go right ahead! And I’ll be there to capture the magic of it all. Connect with me to get started. And enjoy the rest of Carmen and David’s wedding photos below — along with some hilarious reception photos!