The wedding of
Mika and Ryan
Saturday, 23rd of August, 2025
Achnagairn Castle
Kirkhill Inverness IV5 7PD
More Information to Follow
Our Journey Together
Our Meet Cute
Mika and Ryan’s story began during Freshers Week in 2019 at St Andrews. Amidst the stress and chaos of a week filled with events, they truly met for the first time. Mika was adamant that her glow-in-the-dark washi tape would withstand a night of dancing and spilled drinks, despite skepticism from the tech volunteers. To everyone’s surprise, most of the tape held up, and Ryan congratulated her on her efforts. Their first messages were exchanged later that evening.
Their initial messages evolved into long conversations and wonderful adventures. Initially a secret, Lulu (Mika’s pup) couldn’t contain her excitement when Ryan was around and spilled the beans to their friends. From tired nights behind a DJ booth to setting pumpkins on fire with friends on the beach, Mika and Ryan became inseparable, with Lulu by their side.
Over the five years they’ve spent together, they’ve celebrated numerous milestones: graduations, moving to Manchester, new jobs, flats, and even adopting their new puppy, Skye. However, their journey is just beginning as they embark on this exciting new stage.
The Proposal
After a few (less than subtle) hints, Ryan began planning the proposal. He considered various options, from romantic picnics in San Diego to fancy dinners in Boston or amidst the ruins in York’s botanical gardens. Ultimately, he settled on a beautiful backdrop—a stained glass sculpture in the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, a spot Ryan frequented in his youth. With a ring handmade by Ryan’s family, permission from Mika’s parents and Lola, and one of Mika’s best friends ready to capture the perfect photo from the trees, the proposal was finally underway.
As Mika and Ryan walked along the sculpture path, they got lost and were nearly chased by wild, feral boars. But when they reached the planned spot, the weather cooperated—it stopped raining just in time. With everything and everyone in place, Ryan nervously got down on one knee and popped the question. He almost forgot to give the ring to Mika, but her delighted scream and immediate “yes” made it all worthwhile. They celebrated with Prosecco and a trip to Spoons on the Gloucester docks.
Just say the word,
We'll take on the world.
-You Me At Six
Location
ABOUT INVERNESS AND ACHNAGAIRN
Inverness
Nestled in the heart of the Highlands, Inverness enchants with mist-shrouded lochs, heather-clad hills, and tales of mythical creatures. As the Capital of the Highlands, this historic city traces its roots back to the Picts. Among its storied past, Inverness Castle (featured in Shakespeare’s Macbeth) stands as the latest in a lineage of fortresses that have graced the site for nearly a millennium. From there, wander through the charming Old Town, where attractions abound—such as the grand Inverness Cathedral, the quaint Victorian Market shops, and the picturesque streets lining the River Ness.
Achnagairn Castle
Built on an ancient site, Achnagairn Castle—our chosen venue for saying “I Do”—has stood in its current form since 1812, with portions of the structure dating back to 1663. The name “Achnagairn” derives from the phrase “Field of the Cairns.” Its grounds are adorned with breathtaking gardens, but the true gem lies within: the stunning vaulted ballroom, originally constructed in 1912 for the owner’s daughter’s 21st birthday celebration. What a memorable party that must have been!
