When Julie & Steve decided to celebrate the Homecoming Year by organising a Worldwide Toast for Robert Burns’ 250th Anniversary, they had no idea what a tremendous success this would be. On 25th January 2009, people from every corner of the globe, including Antarctica, came together to raise a glass and toast the Bard. We put together a fantastic photo gallery as pictures from all over the world came flying in to commemorate this wonderful event. “Would we please make the Worldwide Toast an annual event?” was the burning question on everyone’s lips.

With their passion for Scotland, it’s People and for everyone around the world who love Scotland and Robert Burns alike, Julie & Steve hope that they can create a lasting legacy for Burns to take with us into the future for us for generations to come.

About Julie Deans

Born a “Falkirk Bairn” in 1964, Julie has always been proud to be Scottish. Although well travelled in her home country, Julie’s chance of promoting Scotland did not transpire until she started her business career in 1996. Her idea of providing a dedicated booking service to assist walkers on Scotland’s long distance routes such as the West Highland Way was a storming success. With a work ethic second to none, Julie grew the company for over a decade until she sold the business in 2006. However, after a brief well deserved rest, Julie could not stay away long and is now firmly back in the walking industry continuing to help walkers experience the beauty of Scotland. Being born and brought up only a stone’s throw from Rosebank Distillery, Julie’s other passion is whisky and is shared by Steve and, would you believe, Holly alike!! 

About Steve Higson

Steve was born in North Wales in 1954. However, his ancestry is rooted in Scotland and he is proud to be part of the Scottish Diaspora. Steve migrated north in 1973 and has enjoyed living in Scotland for the last 36 years, being proud to promote Scotland all things Scottish. Having worked for 16 years with United Distillers plc, Steve also shares Julie’s passion for whisky. After an enjoyable spell as owner/chef of the Glenisla Hotel in Angus, Steve now continues promoting Scotland through his small Scottish walking company called Gemini Walks. Steve’s interests support his passion for Scotland - whisky, food, walking and the beautiful Scottish scenery.

About Holly Dog

An active and most adorable pooch, our office dog Holly loves to become involved in all of Julie & Steve’s projects.  She is the first to grab her collar to get out into the fresh air and research all of those wonderful Scottish walks.  Holly is proud of her visits to Burn’s country and was lucky enough to be allowed to have a personal tour of Burn’s house in Dumfries and add her name to the international list of visitors who pay homage to Burns each year. Holly’s other accolades include many visits to Distilleries and whisky events and so far her favourite single malt is Scapa!  She is also proud to be the first dog in Scotland to have experienced a ‘zorb!’

“live life to the full!”