Archive for August, 2008

Our First Wedding at Pilrig – All the Way from Atlanta!

August 30 2008

Last week, we had our first wedding guests come to stay – Kelly and Chad from Atlanta, together with Chad’s parents.  The men donned their family ‘Campbell’ tartan, and, by their own account, their day exceeded all expectations. As it was the Festival, they were applauded & photographed  by the crowds on the Royal Mile after the ceremony. Kelly’s mother-in-law, Patty, said they were like celebrities on the red carpet as they walked towards the Castle for some memorable photos – taken by Carrie, from Premier Photography.

Before thier marriage ceremony in Edinburgh, we were delighted that they chose to be photographed in the Balfour Apartment, and in the gardens here at Pilrig House. They have kindly given permission for a few of their beautiful photographs to be shown here. Hope you like them – we thought they were just lovely!  And, by a miracle – the sun came out!!

Philip and I wish Chad and Kelly every happiness in their future together, and hope they may return to Scotland one day to see us and recall their very Scottish wedding day!

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August

August 19 2008

Well – apologies for the gap in writing the blog. It has been so busy over the last couple of months, that, finding the time to write has been nigh on impossible.

The Festival is under way – and, despite the torrential rain – and it has been relentless, all guests are made of spirited stuff and have still managed to enjoy Edinburgh to the full. Philip and I have had fun hearing second-hand about all the plays and events that have been seen…  Our guests throughout July and August have come from the US, UK, Ireland, Denmark, Canada and Holland.  And, they have all been so nice – a pleasure to meet.

Scottish Tourist Board Thistle Award – We are Finalists – Yippee!

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We have just been notified by Visit Scotland that Pilrig House Apartments is a finalist for a Scottish Thistle Award in the category ‘Customer Care – Accommodation’. We are just delighted as, since we started up a few years ago,  our aim has been to ensure that guests leave us feeling ‘looked after’, and, that they have a great time during their stay in Edinburgh.  So – Philip is off looking to get kitted out in a kilt, as, on September 3,  we have been invited to attend a champagne reception on board The Royal Yacht Britannia where we meet other finalists. Them in late October, we go to the actual awards ceremony and gala dinner. We are so thrilled to even be one of three finalists, we will enjoy the event no matter who wins! Will keep you posted. And, may post a picture of Bonnie Prince Philip in all his regalia…

Remember that Visit Scotland is a great site for checking what events will be on during your stay – it lists all events in Scotland, as well as in Edinburgh, including all those related to the Clan Gathering in 2009.

Our August wedding takes place next Monday – and, the bride to be is dropping off her wedding dress later today – I have arranged for it to be steam-pressed for her big day – especially since it has come all the way across the Atlantic, from the US, for the occasion.  We are hoping against hope that the sun comes out for the occasion.

Talking of weddings, a favourite guest, and now friend, of ours from the US – Dori – returns in September for the third year running.  She designs the most exquisite wedding jewellery and acccessories. Do take a look at her website - your order can be made online and mailed anywhere in the world – and, the prices are fantastic for such beautiful, handcrafted pieces!

If only we had taken new garden photographs in June – the roses were in full bloom and colour seemed to suddenly explode in all nooks and crannies… sadly, Philip never seemed to think it was just at its peak – and then the rains came… Ah well, next year!

Often we get asked to refer guests to a good restaurant in Edinburgh. Please do look at ‘What’s On’ and click on the Useful Links on our website- it includes Edinburgh Restaurant Guides/Recommendations, and give you an chance to read reviews.

More news and updates later!

Bye for now, Debbie