Your Ceremony
Getting married in Scotland offers incredible freedom—you can say "I do" almost anywhere, whether it's by a tranquil loch, atop a scenic hill, on a majestic mountainside, in your own back garden, or even in a rustic barn. As a Humanist celebrant, I will create a unique and deeply personal ceremony that truly reflects you as a couple—your values, your journey, and the people and moments that matter most. A wedding should be a joyous celebration, filled with love, laughter, and meaning. Whether you want something romantic, light-hearted, or a mix of both, your ceremony will be crafted to be exactly as you want it—authentic, heartfelt, and uniquely yours.
Handfasting
Handfasting was used by the clans of Scotland to bind two people in marriage. It was also used later in rural communities to allow two people to be married in the eyes of their community for a year and a day until they could find a minister to marry them.
.Photo by https://www.garybonarphotography.com
Exhange of Rings
Rings are a never-ending circle, representing the never-ending love of the couple, and a symbol of their commitment to their love and their marriage.
A Reading or a Poem
A reading or a poem can add a very personal touch to your ceremony, it is also a lovely way to include family or friends in your ceremony. (Photo: https.//www.annaurban.com)
Drinking from a Quaich
The quaich was used by the clans of Scotland to celebrate their joining in friendship, a marriage and as a symbol of trust between familes and clans. Today it represents the couple’s first act of sharing in their marriage, but also their families and friends joining in friendship and trust too.
Candle-Lighting
The candle ceremony represents two individuals coming together as one in the union of marriage. Some couples invite their mums or their parents to join in this as well.
Who can you include in your ceremony?
During a ceremony you will need two witnesses who must be 16 years or over. They must be aware of and understand the legal commitments you are making. This is a lovely way of including family or friends in your ceremony.
You can include family members or friends who may like to do a reading of their or your choice. Some couples include their children to help with rings. The children above wanted to make vows to each other to be friends forever. There are lots of ways of including friends and family in your day. (Photo by Selina Dixon)