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This Unconventional Wedding on a 19th-Century Ship Proves You Can Celebrate Your Way

August 16, 2025 | justine

Some couples dream of grand ballrooms or historic estates. Kitty and Stuart? They wanted something completely different—a celebration that felt effortless, authentic, and unapologetically them. That vision came to life aboard the Tall Ship, a restored 19th-century vessel docked in Glasgow. With no strict dress code, minimal decor, and plenty of DIY touches, their wedding wasn’t about perfection, it was about having a great time with their favorite people. From greeting guests before the ceremony to wearing what makes them happy instead of traditional attire, they showed that an unconventional wedding can be uniquely personal and laid back

What We Love About This Unconventional Wedding:

  • The couple’s nontraditional fashion choices—Kitty in stylish dungarees with a custom bridal cape, Stuart in sunglasses and a cap
  • Greeting guests before the ceremony instead of keeping separate until the aisle moment
  • A friend-officiated ceremony that unexpectedly included a second-hand quaich ritual
  • Guests waving ribbon wands instead of throwing confetti
  • The unique charm of a 19th-century Tall Ship wedding in the heart of Glasgow

Featured Vendor:

Pocket Square Photography

Breaking Away from the Usual Wedding Dress Code

Rather than following the usual wedding style rules, Kitty and Stuart dressed in a way that felt true to them. Kitty wore chic dungarees paired with a custom cape from Kit and the Bobbin, while Stuart kept it casual in sunglasses and a cap. Even the cake was a no-fuss Costco find.

Shop Colorful Veils & Capes:

They also skipped professional hair and makeup, showing that a wedding doesn’t need a big glam squad to look and feel special. The focus was on comfort and happiness over formality.

The Benefits of Taking Photos Before the Ceremony

One key to the relaxed atmosphere was taking photos before the ceremony. The couple got ready together, then went for a walk along the water with their photographer, Junebug vendor Pocket Square Photography, before guests arrived. This set a calm tone for the rest of the day and freed up more time later to spend with loved ones.

During the ceremony, their friend-turned-officiant added a surprise. A quaich ritual using a second-hand cup emblazoned with a football stadium logo. It became an unexpected moment of laughter and connection.

Choosing a Venue With Built-In Personality

The Tall Ship offered the perfect mix of character and convenience—visually striking, steeped in history, and located right in the city. Because the venue’s atmosphere was already so distinctive, they kept decor minimal: a neon sign with their names and a glittery photo backdrop added just enough personal flair.

Encouraging a Relaxed Atmosphere for Everyone

From the start, the couple encouraged guests to feel comfortable, even skipping a formal dress code. Some arrived in t-shirts and jeans, others embraced playful touches like yellow sunglasses handed out on deck. Instead of traditional confetti, ribbon wands created a colorful and sustainable send-off.

The ship’s open deck became a lively gathering space, with guests chatting in the sunshine and even “scrubbing the deck” for a few lighthearted photos.

 

 

Balancing Fun and Flow in a Low-Key Wedding

According to Junebug vendor Pocket Square Photography, one of the smartest choices was building in unstructured time before the main events. That calm start made the rest of the day feel even more enjoyable.

Whether it’s aboard a historic vessel or in your own backyard, this unconventional wedding shows that the most memorable celebrations often come from letting go of the rules and focusing on what matters most—connection, laughter, and love.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Pocket Square Photography
Venue – Tall Ship Glenlee
Catering – Regis Banqueting
Bridal Dungarees – Emperors Old Clothes
Bridal Accessories – Kit and the Bobbin

 

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