The celebrations themselves are my gift to you.

Food, beverages, entertainment, and the hosted experiences during each event are complimentary for invited guests.

Guests are responsible for their own travel to Scotland, accommodations, transportation outside of the hosted events, and any additional sightseeing they choose to include during their trip.

Not at all.

Each event stands on its own. You're welcome to join us in Edinburgh, on Islay, or both. Many guests will build their own Scotland itinerary around one of the celebrations, and we'd be delighted to have you however your travels unfold.

Absolutely, and we want you to enjoy every meal.

For our hosted events, we'll of course accommodate medical allergies. When it comes to dietary preferences, it's worth remembering that group events tend to have set menus, and Islay is a small island with fewer suppliers and restaurant options than a major city.

If you have complex dietary needs, we'd love to chat before you make travel plans so we can help set expectations and ensure you have a wonderful experience.

Absolutely.

While these celebrations are just one part of your holiday, I’ve got a team that will happily share recommendations for hotels, transportation, restaurants, sightseeing, and favorite places throughout Scotland. Whether you're staying for four days or two weeks, we’d love to help you make the most of your visit.

Please do.

You might not know them yet. One of the things I love most about Scotland is how naturally people connect over great food, good conversation, and a shared sense of adventure.

If you arrive knowing only me, I have a feeling you'll leave with several new friends.

Absolutely.

If someone is important to you, they're welcome to celebrate with us too.

If you're planning to bring additional guests beyond your primary travel companion, especially friends or family I haven't had the chance to meet yet, I'd love it if you'd reach out first. Not because there's a secret guest list, but because I'd enjoy getting to know who's coming and helping everyone feel connected before we meet in Scotland.

Absolutely not.

Both of the events will offer excellent non-alcoholic options, and abstaining won’t dampen a moment of celebration. You're welcome to participate at whatever level feels comfortable for you.

Not a problem!

These events are designed to appeal to people who appreciate great food, beautiful scenery, meaningful experiences, and wonderful company. There will be many non-whisky libations to choose from.

Right now, we're simply gathering interest.

Submitting the RSVP form lets us estimate attendance, reserve the right venues, and share updates as planning progresses.

Formal invitations and event details will be sent closer to 2028, and we'll let everyone know well in advance when final RSVPs are needed.

Maybe... and maybe not.

Islay isn't a luxury resort destination, and it isn't trying to be. It's a small island with spectacular scenery, welcoming people, world-famous distilleries, and a slower pace of life. That's exactly why so many of us love it. It’s not built for accessibility, and there’s no public transport.

If you're someone who enjoys discovering places that feel authentic, appreciates a slower itinerary, and doesn't mind that your dinner choices might include a cozy pub, takeaway pizza, or fresh seafood overlooking the harbor, you'll probably fall in love with Islay too.

If you prefer a wider variety of restaurants, shopping, nightlife, or the convenience of a larger city, Edinburgh may be a better fit for your trip, and we'd be delighted to celebrate with you there.

Very... and that's exactly why so many of us love it.

Part of Islay's charm is that it has remained wonderfully untouched. You'll find incredible beaches, welcoming locals, world-famous distilleries, and a pace of life that feels refreshingly different from the rest of the world.

With that comes a few practical considerations. Reaching the island requires a ferry or short flight, restaurant options are more limited than in a city, and while Islay has excellent local medical services, serious emergencies requiring specialist care are transferred to the mainland, typically by air ambulance.

For most visitors, that's simply part of visiting a remote island. If you're unsure whether Islay is the right fit for your travel style or health needs, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'd much rather help you choose the experience you'll enjoy most.

Scotland has a way of experiencing every season in a single day.

Layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a light waterproof jacket are highly recommended. For The Gathering, we suggest cocktail attire with a touch of Scotland, whether that's tartan, a thistle pin, or simply your favorite jacket.

Life happens.

Because there isn't a ticket to purchase for these hosted celebrations, there's no cancellation fee if your travel plans change. If you find you can no longer attend, we'd simply appreciate knowing as soon as possible so we can plan food, seating, and logistics accordingly.

Scotland has given me friendships, unforgettable experiences, and a place that truly feels like a second home. The Spirit of Scotland is my way of sharing that with others, not by rushing from one attraction to the next, but by slowing down, connecting with remarkable people, and experiencing Scotland the way I've come to love it.

I hope that when you return home, you'll feel the same way I do: already thinking about your next trip back.