From Chapelton home to wedding venue: Nikki and Chris tie the knot in their garden

When Nikki and Chris moved into their new home in Chapelton in February this year, they probably didn’t expect to be getting married in their garden just a few months later.

However, after getting engaged on Christmas Day in December 2024, the couple decided to keep things relaxed and make the most of the place they now call home – organising their wedding in just eight weeks.

And what better setting than their own garden, with Chapelton’s countryside views providing the backdrop?

With around 40 guests joining them during the day and another 20 arriving for the evening celebrations, the day was all about good food, plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors and most importantly, keeping things relaxed.

We recently caught up with Nikki and Chris to find out more about their Chapelton wedding, from last-minute planning to building part of their own marquee!

What made you decide to get married at home?

“We wanted a relaxed, personal wedding and once we had our new home, having the wedding in our own garden just felt right. It was especially meaningful because the house represented us bringing our two families together and starting our new chapter.

“Before moving to Chapelton, Chris lived in Inverbervie and I lived in Portlethen. We both sold our homes so that we could buy one home together that was big enough for our blended family. With six children between us, finding a home with enough space for everyone was really important.

“The views were also a big part of the decision and our garden offered the perfect backdrop for the day.

“We had only lived in Chapelton for five months, but we’d already made some huge memories there. Having our wider family, friends and new neighbours gather there over the wedding weekend really cemented the feeling that Chapelton was home.”

You only had eight weeks to organise everything. How did you manage it?

“We bought most of the items ourselves and hired a few pieces from Thoughts and Crosses including our rustic trestle tables, wooden cross-back chairs and some wedding décor including the flower wall and ‘happily ever after’ neon sign.

“There was, however, a moment of panic when we realised the marquee might not quite fit. However, we were able to rebuild the roof section and it just fit!”

With guests travelling from afar, what did you get up to the night before?

“Chris’ family is from Plymouth and mine are from Wales. All of our family came up and stayed in Stonehaven and Aberdeen.

“We wanted it to feel like more than just one wedding day – particularly for family who had travelled such a long way. Our new home in Chapelton became a real gathering place over the celebrations.

“Chris went into Stonehaven for his stag night and we had a hen do at The Boxes with our visiting family the night before the wedding, followed by some drinks at the Gatehouse Taproom. It was a lovely way for everyone to get together and start the celebrations – and everyone loved the uniqueness of The Boxes.”

Can you tell us more about the day?

“We walked the dog in the morning, just like we would on a normal day and it was lovely and relaxed.

“We wanted it to feel like a relaxed summer garden party – very personal, informal and centred around our family and friends. My sons gave me away, while my daughters and Chris’ daughter were bridesmaids, and Chris’ son was the best man.

“The dress code was whatever people felt comfortable in – we wanted people to feel relaxed and enjoy themselves. Our photographer was the daughter of one of Chris’ best friends and we just encouraged everyone to take loads of photos to share the day.

“We had a Spotify playlist and sent the link to guests so everyone could add their requests. It just needed some screening as everyone invited has a sense of humour!

“We also had giant garden games including Guess Who, Kerplunk and axe throwing to keep all of our guests amused. As a family, we play loads of games and Chris and his daughter Grace are particularly competitive when it comes to Uno!

“We had a hog roast for our evening meal from The Spit and Pig Company, and our cake was an M&S naked layer cake, which I decorated with a topper and flowers.

“As the evening went on, some of our neighbours even came round and joined in on the celebrations. We wouldn’t change a thing about the whole day.”

From organising their whole wedding in just eight weeks to celebrating with family, friends and neighbours in their own garden, Nikki and Chris created exactly the kind of day they wanted.

A huge congratulations to the couple from everyone at Chapelton – and thank you for letting us share a little glimpse of your special day.

Here’s to many happy years in your Chapelton home!

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