People from all over the world, of all faiths & sexualities, can easily be married anywhere here.

A beautiful country well known for its dramatic scenery of mountains and valleys, rolling hills, green fields and forests, and rugged coastline. You can have both a legal and non-legal ceremony to symbolize your marriage to one another.

After having captured so many weddings and elopements in this amazing land, we have put together a wee guide for you. In case you’ve started dreaming of making your big day happen here – you should find a handful of quick answers to the most common questions we’ve been asked.

Which kind of legalities we might consider for eloping in Scotland?

All you require to legally marry in Scotland is a marriage schedule, a celebrant and two witnesses over the age of 16. (Vinx and I have been witnesses to many elopements over the years and always feel honoured to do this!) People who are not from here are able to marry in Scotland but this depends on where you are from and you may be subject to immigration control. Further information is available on the GOV.UK website where you can apply for a marriage visitor visa.

Where in Scotland can we legally marry?

You can get married basically anywhere as long as you have a registered celebrant officiating your ceremony. Humanist marriages have been legally recognized in Scotland since 2005. You can also marry through a local Registrar or Minister from the church. Please consider that the very quickest turnaround between applying to marry and getting hitched in 29 days. The Marriage Schedule is granted by the registrar local to your wedding location and can be collected in person up to seven days before the big day. To be issued a marriage schedule you must each fill in a Marriage Notice form.

 Which is the best way to travel in Scotland?

Depending on where you are coming from, know that the main international Airports are Edinburgh and Glasgow. The train network and public transport are quite well serviced. If you are thinking of having a Highland elopement then the best idea would be to hire a car. You can take the advantage of having your own car to literally make the most of your trip, exploring all the areas along the way.

Where should we have our ceremony? And how do we find our celebrant?

If you’re keener for an outdoorsy one there are many places to choose from that we can suggest. We love the Cairngorms, Glencoe, Glen Etive, Isle of Skye just to name a few of them! This is a personal choice, your celebrant can be either a Registrar, Religious or Humanist. For a registrar, you will have to contact the local office nearest to your chosen location. If you are looking at having a Humanist ceremony when you elope to Scotland, many amazing celebrants can be found by using the following site - or many others available on the net https://humanistassociationscotland.com/

Which month should we prefer?

If you’re wondering when the best time of the year would be, we believe that typically the best months are March to May or September to November but we have shot elopements here literally during every month of the year. They all have their magic! Also, winter ones own such a special atmosphere. It’s said that Scotland can show four seasons at you all in one hour! Consider that this is a small island with the Atlantic Ocean just off the West coast. So what we suggest is to embrace the elements and enjoy the ride until it opens up and the sun makes its entrance.

What should we wear on our elopement day?

We always recommend bringing waterproof walking boots or shoes. They would be the best choice for the typical terrain in the highlands and for your own safety. In case of rain, waterproof jacket should be a must.

How can we find accommodation in Scotland?

If you elope to Scotland during summer it’s always recommended to book in advance (especially for highland elopements.) So you will be more likely to find the best and cosiest places as old lodges, hotels and stylish Air BnB's where to enjoy your staying and for beautiful shots of your preparation moments.

How can we organize the whole thing from abroad?

Managing an elopement from distance can be challenging, that is why we’re always at your disposal for any support and we'll be helping you out with the timeline, logistics, etc. But also we will send you a list of trusted and recommended suppliers we’ve been working with (wedding planners, florists, makeup artists, musicians…)

There was an old saying "well begun is half done" - so there you are, one step closer to your Scottish dream to come true!