A Guide to Elopements & Small Weddings in Scotland

Planning and executing a traditional wedding in these times is unadvisable. For one thing, the sheer number of people attending could make it unsafe. It would not be very easy to enforce the rules of social distancing amongst the regular number of people that flock to a traditional wedding ceremony.

That’s why couples are looking into various alternatives nowadays. Amongst those alternatives, many are choosing to go for a small wedding. Also known as a micro wedding, these weddings are like traditional weddings but on a smaller scale. We are also seeing a marked increase in
elopements. And why wouldn’t we, they’re easy to plan, execute and a way safer option. An elopement most times consists of just four people: The couple, their celebrant and their photographer.

If you’re considering a small or elopement wedding, then permit us to introduce you to Scotland. Scotland is a fairy tale location with magical lochs, ancient woods, castles, epic mountains, stunning beaches and other amazing landscapes to explore. It is also the only country in the UK
where you can legally get married anywhere! All you have to do is have your ceremony performed by a registered celebrant.

A clause like this opens up a world of opportunities to you. You can have your dream wedding where you’ve always wanted it with no restrictions. It’s for reasons like these and more that Scotland has become a top destination for elopements and small weddings. People come here
from all over the world to tie the knot and have the wedding of their dreams. You can too. Here’s a guide from us to help you plan one of the best Scottish elopement or small wedding ever.

Pick A Location:

Where to Elope or Have Your Small Wedding in Scotland
You won’t want for locations when it comes to your wedding in Scotland. You’ll, however, have to decide on one as soon as possible because you’ll need to specify it when you’re applying for the paperwork to legalize your marriage. What sort of location are you interested in? Is it a mountain, waterfall, woodland or a bustling city? Here are six amazing locations that you could consider for a start:

The Isle of Skye

If you’re looking for breath-taking and spectacular, the Isle of Skye is where to find it. This amazing island is just a five-plus hour drive from Glasgow and Edinburg and has a unique landscape. It is amazing all seasons of the year, and you’ll feel like you’re walking in a fairy tale here.

Glencoe

Glencoe has it all when it comes to a magical wedding in Scotland. Mountains, waterfalls, rivers and lochs, you’ll find them all at this amazing destination that is just an hour plus drive from Glasgow. It can be a bit busy here in the summer, but you’ll always find some lovely secluded
spots if you so wish, especially if your photographer is experienced and familiar with the area.

Wester Ross and Torridon

If you’re an avid Game of Thrones fan, then this picturesque location is for you. You’ll find iconic landscapes, wilderness trails and the beauty of the Scottish Highlands in display here. If you’re a big fan of the outdoors, a lover of seafood and you want some privacy; this is where you
should head to in Scotland.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park can be a spectacular setting for your Scottish wedding. It has lovely
mountains, pine forests and peaceful lochs. Some of the destinations here may be difficult to get to, but that means more exclusivity. There are also some easily accessible places.

Edinburgh

So, you want to elope in Scotland, but the wild is not quite your forte. You should look into coming to Edinburg then. It’s a beautiful city rich in history, art and culture. You’ll find incredible galleries, world-class restaurants and many other attractions to make your wedding
here worthwhile.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

If you’re looking for the tranquil atmosphere of the locks and the amazing scenery of the mountain while maintaining proximity to the city, then Loch Lomond is where to come. It is just an hour drive from Glasgow, and the wedding venues here are some of the best in Scotland.
You’ll love it here.

Pick A Date: The Four Seasons in Scotland

Choosing the date for your wedding is next on the list when it comes to your Scottish wedding plans. You’ll also need to submit it for your legal paperwork, and it’ll help you arrange a planning timeline if you need one. One of the ways that you can choose your date is by the seasons. A short warning, however, the weather in Scotland is part of what makes it amazing and spectacular. Be prepared for any and everything. You could even have the four seasons in one day!

Find A Celebrant

You can select one that is of your faith or have a humanist ceremony instead. It all depends on whether you are having a civil, belief or religious ceremony. Most couples that choose to have their elopement wedding outdoors go for a humanist ceremony. You can get an extensive list of
registered celebrants in Scotland with a simple search online. The Humanism Society Scotland is a great place to start.

Do Your Paperwork

Once you’ve contacted your celebrant, get started on filling and returning your paperwork immediately. If your celebrant is experienced, they’ll be able to help you with any questions you might have and offer tips. Please note that the latest you can submit your marriage notice I 29days before your elopement or small wedding. Remember that you need to submit your marriage schedule to the registrar’s office within three days of your wedding too!

Links to Useful resources

Coronavirus covid-19 guidance for small marriages and civil partnership registrations

Argyll bute Marriage Guide

What to Wear for Your Elopement or Small Wedding in Scotland?

Honestly, this is up to you, but we’d advise something you can move freely in if you want those natural and spontaneous photos. Bring waterproof clothing and lots of layers too. You’ll also need good footwear that keeps your legs warm and dry. They should also be sturdy if you intend to spend some time exploring and having a bit of an adventure. Best of luck!!!
If you’re looking for a great photographer who is experienced to capture the special moments at your elopement or small wedding in Scotland, then look no further. Here at Fairytales Photography, capturing awesome moments in the most natural way is something I’m great at.
Contact me today!