Describe the best wedding that happened at Riddle's Court?
It’s so hard to choose, but one in particular that stands out was in July when we hosted our biggest group of guests to date. We had been working with the couple for nearly three years, and after so many postponements, to see everyone finally gathered was extremely heart-warming. From the couple and guests to the suppliers and staff members at Riddle’s Court, everyone was overjoyed to celebrate.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Make the planning process fun, prioritise what you want to do and don't get bogged down by tradition! Don't book yourself in to create 70 DIY favours and invitations if you hate crafting, and don't stress about a first dance or cake cutting if it's not for you. Try to keep optimistic and plan for things that will make you happy. Once you realise that there's no 'one way' to have a wedding, it makes everything so much easier!
What’s your favourite personal touch you’ve seen at a wedding?
A recent couple decided to decorate the venue with their two favourite things: Lego and quirky patterned shoes! What made it even more personal was that each Lego model had a unique story relating to the couple’s relationship for all the guests to discover.
Describe Riddle's Court in 5 adjectives
Unique, romantic, historic, intimate, unforgettable!
Where’s the best photo spot at Riddle's Court?
Definitely our picturesque external staircase - it's the showstopper as you come off the Royal Mile!
Have you had any celebrity guest or wedding at Riddle's Court?
Not at one of our weddings, but Riddle's Court has seen its share of famous faces over the years - from King James IV and the Duchess of Buccleuch to Maggie Smith, Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie.
What’s your favourite canapé?
The mini potato scones with chive cream cheese and sun-dried tomato from our onsite caterers is a winner - though we've seen so many delicious canapes over the years, it's impossible to choose.
What’s your favourite midnight treat?
Any kind of ice-cream - but impartial to mint choc-chip!
What is Riddle's Court most unique feature?
This is a difficult question as there are so many unique features from throughout history at Riddle's Court. There is a spectacular painted ceiling that was commissioned in the 1890s that ties together the history of the building, the city, and the University of Edinburgh. In our onsite apartment, there are painted beams from a royal banquet held there in the 16th century - and not to mention our destination loo and great glass lift that you can only truly appreciate in-person!
What part of your business are you most proud of?
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust is the charity who restored and who manages Riddle's Court - their mission is to restore at-risk buildings throughout Scotland for the benefit of the community and so they're sustainable and suitable for contemporary use. This means that all the profits from our weddings and venue hire go back into the charity - so a wedding with us is an investment into Scottish heritage. It doesn't get much better than that!