A Romantic, Scottish Inspired Wedding at Agua Linda Farm

Q1: Tell us about your wedding!

“We wanted to have a fun, carefree day with family and friends in a beautiful setting.”

Q2: Let’s talk wedding decor

“Our ceremony and reception were completely outside on a farm just south of Tucson. The large trees, gardens filled with blooming flowers, and charming hacienda created such a lovely setting, that we really didn’t need to add much.

“We accented the space with coral and pink flowers along the aisle and on the tables. Ross and I are both scientists so we borrowed some lab beakers to use as vases.

“We’re also both transplants to the Arizona and have a deep appreciation for the diversity of the environment here, so we used cacti in our signage and desert critters to identify tables rather than numbers. I made the cake and dessert trays and card box out of wood leftover from furniture projects.”

Q3: Did you personalize the day in any way?

“We incorporated many Scottish elements into the day. Ross and I were both piped down the aisle by a highland bagpiper. After our first dance Ross coached our family and friends through several Scottish group dances on the lawn. Although it was a bit chaotic, everyone was on their feet, smiling and laughing. It was really quite a highlight.

“Ross’ mom baked the delicious cake, cupcakes and hedgehogs (chocolate desserts).

“We really enjoyed our time after the ceremony getting photos together, because it was the one part of the day when Ross and I had a few moments alone (besides the photographers, of course) to reflect on the day and be little goofy together.”

Q4: Let’s talk fashion

“I was looking for a dress light enough for an April day in Tucson, and that moved beautifully. My dress from was simple and perfect for twirling. A beaded belt gave it just a bit of sparkle. For the ceremony I wore a delicate lace topper, which added a romantic touch. In addition to my wedding ring, I wore a pair of antique earrings with pearls, that Ross had given me one Christmas. I kept my makeup light and natural. My hair was pulled back into a side braid and bun that was soft, but also had a hint of warrior princess.

“Ross looked quite dapper kilt, with a waistcoat and jacket. He was fully decked out with the traditional Scottish accessories: kilt pin, sporran (pouch), flashes, and the Sgian Dubh (knife). And according to traditional, he was a true Scotsman.”

Q5: How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.

“Ross and I met the modern way, on the internet. On our first date we really hit it off, we had a great dinner and spent the rest of the evening talking while exploring the city on foot.

“After six years together we took a trip to Belize. After snorkeling a barrier reef, paddle boarding and exploring Mayan ruins, we spent our last few days relaxing at a beautiful jungle resort.

“Early in our stay, Ross snuck away to conspire with the resort staff on proposal plans. On our second to last day we returned to our casita, very sweaty from a morning kayaking, and the place was completely decorated with hibiscus and bougainvillea. There was a sweet letter from Ross.

“After I finished reading it, he asked, and I said yes. We spent the rest of the day drinking champagne in a hammock.”

Q6: Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?

“Focus on the aspects of the day that are important to you and your soon to be spouse.”