Planning A Destination Wedding In Scotland: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a destination wedding in Scotland can be done in as little as three months, but it's important to be aware of the extra aspects that need to be arranged and researched, such as airport travel, local accommodation, and activities. It's recommended that you hire a destination wedding planner who has experience planning weddings in Scotland and can help you find the right vendors and venues.

Choosing a venue

When it comes to choosing a venue for your destination wedding in Scotland, you're spoilt for choice. Scottish law means that your wedding ceremony can take place almost anywhere, so you could say your vows in a spectacular natural setting like Glencoe, the Isle of Skye, or Cairngorms National Park.

If you'd prefer a roof over your head, there are plenty of indoor venues to choose from, including elegant hotels, romantic castles, and village halls. Castles are a particularly popular choice for destination weddings in Scotland, with options ranging from the rugged Outer Hebrides to Edinburgh Castle.

When selecting a venue, it's essential to consider your vision for the wedding and the overall experience you want to create. Do you want a relaxed, intimate celebration or a more glamorous, large-scale event? Working with a destination wedding planner can be incredibly helpful, as they will have access to exclusive deals and will be able to guide you towards venues that align with your dreams.

It's also important to keep logistics in mind. If you're planning a destination wedding, you'll want to ensure that your venue is easily accessible for you and your guests, with options for local accommodation. Additionally, consider any activities or experiences you want to include as part of your celebration and choose a venue that complements these.

Booking a planner

If you're looking to book a planner for your destination wedding in Scotland, it's recommended that you opt for an experienced destination wedding professional who is used to planning elopements in Scotland. They'll be able to help you arrange and research the extra aspects that come with a destination wedding, such as airport travel, local accommodation and activities.

It's also worth noting that a planner will have access to discounts and exclusive deals with vendors they frequently work with. If you've already booked some suppliers, it's a good idea to employ a planner who knows at least a couple of your pre-existing vendors and has a good working relationship with them. This will ensure that your planner has access to more open information and conversation with your vendors.

When it comes to timing, destination weddings don't have to take a year of planning. It's possible to organise a last-minute elopement to Scotland within three months. However, if you're looking to get married as soon as possible, it's important to keep in mind that there may be more limited options available.

To find a planner, you can start by checking online directories or asking for recommendations from friends or family who have planned similar weddings. It's also a good idea to read reviews and ask for references from past clients to ensure that you're hiring someone reputable and experienced.

Researching travel and accommodation

When it comes to researching travel and accommodation for your destination wedding in Scotland, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to consider the time of year you plan to get married. Late spring and summer are ideal if you're looking for good weather, but hotel rates tend to be more expensive during these months due to increased tourism. If budget is a concern, consider a winter wedding, when travel costs and accommodations are typically cheaper.

Next, think about your guest list and where everyone will be travelling from. It's typical for guests to cover their own travel costs, but you may want to consider setting up a hotel block to keep costs down and ensure your loved ones are all in close proximity. Send out 'save the dates' eight to twelve months in advance, followed by invitations six months before the wedding, to give your guests plenty of time to book travel and accommodation.

When it comes to planning your own travel and accommodation, it's a good idea to use a destination wedding planner who is experienced in arranging weddings in Scotland. They will be able to help you find the best deals and ensure every moment of your trip is special. If you've already booked some suppliers, choose a planner who has a good working relationship with them.

Finally, don't forget to obtain any necessary visas for yourself and your guests. This step can be skipped if you and your guests are from the UK or EU economic area.

Finding vendors

When it comes to finding vendors for your destination wedding in Scotland, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is recommended to use a destination wedding planner who can help you navigate the process and has access to discounts and exclusive deals with vendors they frequently work with. They will also be able to recommend vendors that suit your specific needs and budget.

If you already have some suppliers booked, it is a good idea to employ a planner who knows at least a couple of your pre-existing vendors and has a good working relationship with them. This will ensure that your planner has access to more open information and conversation with your vendors, making the planning process smoother.

When choosing a destination wedding planner, opt for an experienced professional who is used to planning weddings in Scotland, whether they are intimate or large events. They will be familiar with the local area, venues, and vendors, and can help you create a special and seamless experience for you and your guests.

To find vendors directly, you can start by checking online directories specifically for wedding vendors in Scotland. This will give you an idea of the options available and help you narrow down your choices based on your specific requirements. Remember to read reviews and ask for recommendations from other couples who have planned destination weddings in Scotland to ensure you find the best fit for your special day.

Additionally, don't forget to consider the extra aspects that come with a destination wedding, such as airport travel, local accommodation, and activities for your guests. By planning these details in advance, you can ensure that every moment of your trip to Scotland is memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Obtaining a visa

If you are planning a destination wedding in Scotland, you will need to obtain a visa unless you live in the UK or EU economic area. It is recommended that you employ a planner who knows the local vendors and has a good working relationship with them. They will be able to help you with the additional aspects of arranging a destination wedding, such as airport travel and local accommodation. A destination wedding planner will also have access to discounts and exclusive deals with vendors. With some planning and preparation, it is possible to arrange a legal destination or elopement marriage in Scotland within three months.

Frequently asked questions