Scottish Traditions

People from all over the world feel a connection with Scotland, so it’s not surprising that many choose to return here for the most important day of their lives.

“We always wanted a Scottish Wedding as both our families originated from Scotland. Celebrate in Scotland arranged every detail for us and our guests from the USA even down to locating a special family tartan for the bridesmaids sashes.”
Dave and Rae Miller, Florida
March 2004

Here are some tips for introducing a little Scottish charm into the proceedings:

• Trace your Scottish roots and wear your clan tartan on the day – add a hint of Scotland with tartan sashes for the bride and bridesmaids, or the bridegroom could wear full Highland dress and kilt
• Give a luckenbooth – a traditional Scottish token of love, a luckenbooth is a silver brooch engraved with two entwined hearts. Some couples pin it on the blanket of their first born for good luck
• Exchange claddagh rings – instead of plain gold wedding bands, exchange rings of Celtic knotwork. Knotwork patterns are continuous, with no beginning and no end – a perfect symbol for a wedding day
• Scottish Heather – wear a buttonhole of Scottish Heather to bring good luck
• Hire a piper – there’s nothing more stirring than the sound of the pipes welcoming guests to the ceremony or announcing the bride and groom’s arrival at the reception
• Have a ceilidh – book a ceilidh band and caller for your reception and your guests will never forget the exhilaration of the traditional Highland flings. The caller will keep everyone in step and even the shyest wall flower won’t be able to resist joining in!

Legal Requirements

Getting married in Scotland is simple but there are a few vital legal requirements to fulfil. We’ll make sure you have all the right documentation so everything runs like clockwork. Please note:

• Bride and groom must both be 16 years or over and be free to marry
• Ceremonies must be conducted by a minister of religion or an authorised registrar
• You must give a minimum of 15 days and a maximum of 3 months notice about your plans to marry
• There are two types of wedding – religious and civil
• Civil ceremonies can be performed by a registrar in a registry office or in specially registered venues by celebrants
• Religious ceremonies performed by a minister can take place almost anywhere

Wherever you live, Celebrate in Scotland can smooth the path towards a perfect Scottish wedding. Fill in our enquiry form and we’ll get straight back to you. Or call us now on + 44 (0) 131 334 5005 for an informal chat about your plans.

Whisky photograph © VisitScotland/ScottishViewpoint
All wedding photography © Celebrate in Scotland Limited