How to elope
in Scotland
There’s something about this country that casts a unique atmosphere even in its gloomier days. There’s like a thread that connects the people to the landscape and their history, almost like an ancient calling.
A complete & easy guide
Eloping in Scotland
You are thinking of ditching traditional weddings for adventure instead. The meaning of eloping isn’t just running away—it’s a celebration crafted around you. Whether you want something simple or totally epic, your day can be anything you dream of.
Imagine a full day with your favorite person, doing what you love—hiking a Munro, searching for Nessie, kayaking a quiet river, or picnicking deep in a forest. Prefer castles and fairytales? Scotland has it all.
Wherever your adventure takes you, I’m here for it. Based in the central belt with the Highlands as my backyard, I offer all-inclusive elopement packages so you can relax, show up, and soak in every moment.
DISCOVER HOW TO ELOPE IN SCOTLAND AS A FOREIGNER
“Today’s rain is tomorrow’s whisky”
The best time to elope depends on your preferences. Scotland is famously rainy, which means each location always looks unique, and many couples find the misty vibe adds magic to their elopement.
Summer (April–August) brings longer days (up to 11 pm in June), milder temps (10–20°C), and a higher chance of dry weather: that gives you lots of time to get ready, get married, and enjoy the activities of your choice. Expect light showers, clouds, and occasional sun. If you don’t mind curious tourists and want warmer temps, this might be your season. You can always visit touristic areas the days before/after.
Autumn and winter (September–February) see more showers, but they’re usually not constant. With colder temps (-5°C to 5°C) and early sunsets (3–4 pm), the landscapes are often stunning—think golden leaves or snowy hills. I love autumn here because it’s very fairytale-like, and everywhere it’s just quiet, colorful, and wild.
Cold wind is a constant in Scotland. Many brides wear woolen tartan shawls—not just cozy, but also a nod to tradition. On your wedding day, I’ll bring my trusty brollies (great in photos too!) and I’m flexible to work around the weather and what you think is best to do.
What to wear: sturdy boots, warm layers, and optional fancy shoes for photos.
My personal pick? March to May. Fewer tourists, decent temps (10–15°C), better flight deals, and lots of sunny days.
Top tip: Pack midge and tick repellent—just in case!
How to get married in Scotland
Getting married in Scotland is simple—but it does involve some paperwork and deadlines.
First, you’ll need to gather a few documents. Don’t worry—it's straightforward, and I’ll guide you through every step (keep reading for more details).
To make your marriage legal, you’ll need two witnesses. (I’m often asked to be one—always an honour!)
You’ll also need an approved celebrant for legal outdoor ceremonies. This can be a local registrar, Humanist celebrant, or church minister—they’ll help ensure everything’s in order.
One of the best things about eloping in Scotland? You can legally marry almost anywhere on public land under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, as long as you’re respectful of the space. Still, it’s good practice to ask permission—especially in protected or private areas.
Some couples choose to legally marry at home, then come to Scotland for a symbolic ceremony—that works beautifully too!
Booking a celebrant that is right for you is the most important part to have a truly unique and personalised marriage. I have seen many different ceremonies, and what is great about celebrants here in Scotland is that they are all good listeners, and will make you wedding a genuine reflection of your love story. Make sure you book your favourite one on time!
Choosing the celebrant
Civil ceremony with a Registrar
Local Registrars are a great choice for simplicity—they handle all the legalities during the ceremony and take care of the paperwork. They can include special readings if you ask. It’s also ideal if you want to sort the legal part first, then have a symbolic ceremony in the wild.
Church ministers
Church ministers may require to conduct the ceremony in a church, and for it to be a traditional Christian ceremony, although it is know that some agree on travelling. Best is to ask the celebrant!
Humanist ceremony with Humanist Society Scotland
Probably my favourite, humanist ceremony is a symbolic and legal celebration where the celebrant makes it all about you; it’s usually very creative, and can incorporate Scottish traditions such as hand fasting, drinking from the Quaich and similar, according to your preference.
One Spirit Interfaith Ministers
As with Humanists, One Spirit tailor the ceremony to you, and they marry people of all faiths (or none). Their ceremonies are quite spiritual, and they promote compassion, unity, and embrace diversity.
Elopement planning
Get in touch with me to schedule a free consultation. In this session, we will go through your dream elopement and location, and get to know each other. You can tell me what fires you up and the must haves of your wedding, and I will answer any question you might have on getting married in Scotland.
Find out how it works!
Once we got our date pinned, I will send you a checklist where you can indicate EVERYTHING you like, from style of wedding, ideal locations and activities, and I will help you craft your perfect Scottish elopement.
Recommended timeline: contact me 9-6 months before your desired date.
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Get it booked
While you start paperwork with your home country (your to-do list), I provide a list of local vendors and celebrants, if you wish, and look into your location of choice permits, if required. I remain available to answer further questions you might have.
I provide an hand-picked list of local vendors and celebrants, and I can help booking appointments too!
I will draft a suggested timeline, completing your ideal wedding with my local knowledge. I will scout the location in your behalf, to confirm everything is as expected. Closer to the date, we will review the timeline and logistics, and plan your photography.
“Your trusty local photographer,
planner and scout!”
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The best advice about getting marred in Scotland is: forget the planning.
You are eloping to be present with your partner, and live an unforgettable adventure.
When you will be in front of each other exchanging vows, all that will matter will be the love and happiness you will be feeling then. I will take care of the boring bits, so you can just be present and savour the moment.
Live every minute of your wedding day, enjoy the little things and all your favourite activities with the person you love. Slow down and embrace your Scottish adventure.
I will photograph your wedding day, and be your photographer, maid-of-honor and interpreter all at once. Do you need a hand fixing your hair mid-session? No problem. Do you want to add a last minute activity? I will help you find one. Are you short of a witness and need a second signature? I’d be an honour!
Ceremony day
Your to-do list
& timeline
3–4 months Contact the local registrar of your location of choice to discuss the process and any specific requirements. Check Passports expiration dates (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the wedding date).
No later than 29 days before the ceremony submit the following to the registrar:
M10 Marriage Notice Form or CP10 Civil Partnership Notice Form
Celebrant and Witness Details Form
Birth/adoption certificate
Proof of usual residence
Valid passport or other proof of nationality
If previously married or in a civil partnership: death certificate of former spouse or final decree of divorce/ dissolution/ annulment
For Non-UK Nationals, additional documents might be required (certificate of No Impediment, evidence of immigration status) - ask the registrar.
7 days before the ceremony the registrar will have ready the marriage/ civil partnership schedule. If you have a religious or belief ceremony you must collect the schedule at least 29 days after submitting the notice, but no more than 7 days before the ceremony, and give it to the celebrant before it takes place. If you are having a civil ceremony you don’t need to do anything; the registrar retains the schedule and will have it ready for signing on the day.
After the ceremony you have 3 days to return the schedule for the wedding to be officially registered.
My to-do list
AKA what you can forget stressing about!
✔️ Paperwork guidance – what you need to elope in Italy or Scotland & how to get it; help fill out forms
✔️ Draft a suggested timeline- completing your ideal wedding with my local knowledge
✔️ Location scouting – from wild beaches to hilltop villages, I’ll be your boots on the ground
✔️ First contact - I save you hours of endless research by gathering info /translate requirements and finding main point of contact for venues
✔️ Clear communication - English + Italian
✔️ Provide a list of English speaking celebrants - and save you the money for an interpreter
✔️ Provide a list of local vendors - if required; and can help booking appointments in Italian
✔️ Witness (if needed)
✔️ Full photography coverage of your wedding day
✔️ Gallery of images- so you can relive your wedding day forever
✔️One complimentary printed or digital album- if requested
✔️ Engagement photography session- if requested as add-on or stand-alone
Ready to make your dream a reality?
About me
Are you dreaming of an adventurous escape in Scotland — but not sure where to start? I’m Isabella, an Italian, UK-based photographer, and I help couples elope in Scotland and Italy with zero stress.
Whether you’re dreaming of a forest, a magical loch, or epic cliff setting — I’ll guide you through every step and photograph your love story along the way.
If you are ready to get started, I would love to hear from you! My job goes far beyond photography. I can be your planner, maid of honor, guide and source of information; all you have to do is relax, show up at your personalised elopement, and enjoy the day with you favourite person.