An NHS worker who lost both his mum and stepdad to Covid has been gifted his dream wedding in an all expenses paid ceremony in Edinburgh.
Dylan Scott and his wife Beth Eisner, who also works within the NHS, tied the knot at the Apex Hotel in Edinburgh's Grassmarket area in a dream ceremony that was paid for by the hotel chain. The ceremony, pictures, food and decorations were all included in the bundle that rewards selected front line NHS workers for their services during one of the toughest periods the service has ever witnessed.
Although Dylan and Beth are from London, they were more than happy to travel the distance and pose in one of the capital's most popular spots with breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle.
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After Dylan and Beth's original wedding plans were put on hold in April 2020, the chance to reschedule never came about due to both of them working non-stop throughout the pandemic. To make things worse, Dylan unfortunately lost both his mum and stepdad to the virus less than a week apart while he and Beth were working flat out.
Commenting on the rollercoaster ride that has been the last two years, Beth said: "We were due to get married in the first week of lockdown in April 2020, but instead of getting into a wedding dress and suit, we were getting into full PPE bodysuits. I was seeing patients in the community as a GP and Dylan was working in hospital in the breast care unit helping women get through their breast cancer treatment."
"This pandemic really took no prisoners. It was difficult for so many people and certainly was a very tough time for our family. We’re so grateful to the team at Operation Recuperation and Apex Hotels for giving us the chance to celebrate with family and friends and remembering those who can’t be with us."
The happy couple were given the complete package including a three-course wedding breakfast, drinks, evening buffet and upgraded wedding night accommodation.
Having the wedding at Apex Grassmarket Hotel was extra special for Beth as she has Scottish connections. “My mum’s side is all from Edinburgh, so it’s been like going home,” she said. “Celebrating our day in full view of the stunning Edinburgh Castle was a special experience and my mum especially was so excited.”
Dylan added, “Our original wedding was supposed to be in London, but the city now holds very painful memories. Having something completely different has made it easier with such special people missing from the day.”
The couple were also gifted essentials such as a professional photographer, a bouquet of flowers and a wedding cake. A live band also kept guests entertained during the evening party, with a traditional Scottish piper making sure the wedding had a Scottish feel to it.
Michael Stott, Commercial Director at Apex Hotels said: “The pandemic has had a devastating effect on so many families but for Dylan and Beth, the cost of what they have lost can’t be measured. We’re so proud of our partnership with Operation Recuperation and are delighted to be able to gift the most deserving NHS couples with the wedding of their dreams, as a ‘thank you’ for all their hard work and sacrifice.
"Dylan and Beth had a really special day at Apex Grassmarket and we’re so pleased we were able to help them celebrate. Everyone here at Apex wishes the couple a huge congratulations and many years of happiness together.”
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