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Scotland is vastly becoming a sought-after wedding hotspot – and for good reason!
Not only is this Gaelic country home to some of the world’s most spellbinding scenery, it also has less strict wedding and elopement regulations than that of most other countries (even other countries in the UK).
So, if you’re currently researching locations to tie the knot in, and have put Scotland down for consideration, we think this 2023 guide might just convince you!
Get ready to find out why getting married in Scotland may just be the best decision you make for your upcoming nuptials.
Photography by Wildling Weddings
How to get the BEST wedding photos – tell me where to send these tips!
Why Should You Get Married in Scotland?
We think the question ought to be, why shouldn’t you get married in Scotland?!
Not only is the country teeming with some of the most jaw-dropping countryside in the world, it also houses incredible historical cities, such as Edinburgh, which hold magic of their own.
Also, anyone with Scottish ancestry may be very fond of tying the knot in this incredible country, owing to some of the many, many Scottish wedding traditions that will make your day just that extra bit special.
Also, unlike multiple other countries, there are no restrictions around non-UK residents getting hitched there (although there are a few hoops to jump through, which we will get to shortly).
Let’s look closer at the many appeals of getting married in Scotland.
Getting married in winter? Head over to this post instead
Portpatrick Wedding – Photographed by Wildling Weddings
Stunning Scottish Landscapes
Sure, every country has some lovely countryside that may look like something out of a Jane Austen novel, but Scotland’s backdrops are something else.
Dotted about the country are moody mountains, mysterious beaches, magnificent castles, enigmatic lochs, and many other urban and rural wonders just waiting to be explored.
Read More: 13 Best Locations for Your Castle Wedding in Scotland
Whether you’re a city-dweller or country-bumpkin at heart, there’s something for everyone, and you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to settling on the perfect wedding location for you and your partner.
Oh, and the best part? Unlike many other countries, Scotland holds no regulations about getting married outside (providing you acquire the landowner’s permission).
So, if you’ve always dreamed of getting married at the peak of a cloud-grazing mountain, or barefoot on the beach with turquoise waves lapping at your toes, you’ve (quite literally) come to the right place!
Just some of the incredible places in Scotland you can get hitched at include:
If you are confused about any aspect of the ceremony planning – particularly as a non-native resident – contact your local embassy, Scotland.gov, or pepper your celebrant with questions! Just make sure you’re all set and good to go with the legal stuff.
Whether you’re considering a large wedding or an intimate elopement, Wildling Weddings can help you plan and photograph the festivities. View packages here.
FAQS
Yes, as outlined above American citizens are welcome to wed/elope in Scotland, providing they have obtained a marriage visitor visa.
Yes, any non-native residents are free to get married/elope in Scotland, providing they have obtained a marriage visitor visa.
- Any persons can get married in Scotland providing they:
- Are aged 16 or over
- In an opposite or same-sex relationship
- Not married or in a civil partnership with someone else
- Not closely related to the person they intend to wed
- Are capable of understanding and consenting to marriage
Scotland has endless beautiful options for weddings – whether indoors or outdoors – and selecting the perfect one can be tricky. You can find out more about getting married in Scotland here.
The number of options can be overwhelming. Get in touch to learn more about our Scotland elopement planning and photography packages.
You’re in the right place! If you need an extra pair of hands planning your big (or little) day in Scotland, all you need to have an incredible wedding can be found here.
- Both parties must be over the age of 16.
- If the couple are non-UK residents, they must obtain a marriage visa at least three months prior to the date they intend to marry.
- Neither party may marry if they are currently in a marriage or civil partnership with someone else.
- Neither party may marry a member of their family (including adoptive members).
- Your ceremony must be conducted by an authorised registrar or celebrant.
