Scottish Wedding Vow Renewal: Giada & Gianluca

Every so often, we get the privilege of being part of a story that feels truly magical. Recently, we had that joy with Gianluca and Giada - an Italian couple who travelled to Scotland for a vow renewal celebration, wearing our exclusive Muted Red Nicolson tartan.

“For us, this vow renewal was incredibly emotional and meaningful. We have a very personal tradition: for many years now we have renewed our initial vows in different places around the world. It is something that makes us feel like true citizens of the world.”

From French Polynesia and the Maldives, to Zimbabwe, Hawaii, Norway, Indonesia, and Venice - each has been part of their vow renewal journey.

But Scotland, they told us, held a much deeper meaning. Years ago, Gianluca proposed to Giada at the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye. Returning here for their vow renewal felt like, in their words, “closing a perfect circle.”

The couple chose the romantic Duns Castle as the backdrop, complete with the stirring sounds of the bagpipes. Naturally, Highland dress played an important role in their celebration.

“Wearing the Muted Red Nicolson tartan was a highlight of the vow renewal. For us, it represented elegance and the spirit of Scotland. Personally, I have always loved the color red, which to me is strongly linked with Scotland, so this tartan felt like the most elegant and meaningful choice.”

And of course, their two Cocker Spaniels, Camilla and Ravel, played their part too! We were delighted to design little tartan bandanas and bow ties so they could join in the vow renewal in true Scottish style.

“There were so many moments we will never forget: the castle setting, the music of the bagpipes, the symbolism of the tartan, and the joy of experiencing all of this not only as a couple but also together with our beloved dogs.

Without any doubt, if we were to suggest a destination for vow renewal around the world, Scotland would be number one. It is the ultimate symbol of love and romance, and wearing such elegant traditional garments - including for me a tartan shawl (which made me feel incredible!) - was truly unforgettable.”

The beautiful photography from the vow renewal celebrations was captured by Patricia Garrigos, alongside Krzysztof Golebiowski, who perfectly reflected the joy and emotion of the vow renewal. 

Looking through the photos was especially meaningful for us at GNK, as Duns Castle holds a special place in our hearts. Louise Nicolson was born and raised in Duns and shares many fond memories of walking and riding her ponies through the castle estate.

We’re so honoured that our Muted Red Nicolson tartan became part of such a personal and meaningful celebration of love. Gianluca and Giada’s vow renewal story reminds us why Scotland - with its castles, traditions, and timeless tartans - continues to capture hearts from all around the world.

If you’d like to follow more of their adventures, you can find them on their online blog or their Instagram, where they share their travel journeys and vow renewal stories across the world.