There's no denying that Scotland is a stunning country, with a rich history, rugged coastline and jagged mountain peaks. Every year thousands of people from around the world travel to Scotland to explore its wild, unkempt wilderness. As a Scot myself, it's easy to under appreciate the vast charm and beauty our country has to offer tourists from places like Japan, with its colourful cherry blossoms and volcanic mountains, or Australians with their white sandy tropical beaches, or North Americans and their incredible scenery.

A wedding is a perfect time to honour our Scottish heritage and traditions, and it's especially exciting for family & friends travelling further a-field who maybe have never experienced the chaos of an Orcadian Strip the Willow. So here are some ideas to kick start your Scottish Wedding Planning and capture the magic that has bewitched the world.

Scottish Ceremony Ideas

Everybody has heard the phrase "Tying the Knot", but did you know of it's Scottish origins? Back in ye olde times, when a couple were marrying, they would signify their union by tying two pieces of fabric together. This tradition endures to this day, with couples choosing fabrics that have a special sentiment to their families, culture or personalities. The 2 pieces of fabric symbolise the union of both families - so that's why each partner often chooses a fabric that represents themselves or their family. This can be tartan, a favourite colour, an old family heirloom or something made specifically for the couple.

Fancy a drink during your wedding ceremony? The ancient Quaich is an important part of Scottish Culture, and also makes your spouse-to-be hasn't poisoned you! At least that's the original idea, sharing a cup ensured that no Clan could assassinate their neighbour during a feast. So naturally, it's become an integral part of a traditional Scottish wedding. Couples can keep things strictly Scottish with their favourite whisky, but many choose a modern twist - opting for a botanical gin, fine rum or even (and I wouldn't recommend this) a Pornstar Martini and Espresso Martini combo.

Another favourite amongst Scottish couples is the oathing stone. Originating from the ancient celtic tradition to "set an oath in stone", couples place their hands over the stone whilst reciting their vows. This can be deeply personal and the stone then serves as a reminder of the commitment they made to each other. You can choose to hunt for your favourite rock whilst on a walk, or even buy personalised oathing stones from suppliers if you wanted something more fancy.

To Kilt, or not to Kilt?

When you think of a Scottish wedding, it's hard to imagine it being kilt-less. In fact, as a Scottish wedding photographer myself, I find it strange when I have a groom turn up in a tuxedo. When it comes to Kilts, there's quite the choice. There are different family or geographic tartans, and you could also choose to go full traditional and have it fitted like a true Highlander, or go for the more formal style paired with a jacket.

Just remember to warn your photographer if you go full Scotsman!

You could also opt for the Trews look, which is a little bit different but still in keeping with Scottish traditions.

Scottish Wedding Venues

If you want a true Scottish wedding experience, then choosing your wedding venue is going to be top of your agenda. Modern hotel weddings often don't have the character that an ancient castle has. One of the truly great things about marrying in Scotland, is that you can literally get married anywhere. There's no limit on location - so if you want to marry halfway up your favourite hill in the snow, then there's nothing stopping you - except maybe a few grumbling guests and the occasional horde of midges.

Scottish Castles are perfect places for weddings. Thankfully, we have no shortage of them. Not all castles are the same though - as many have been modernised inside, such as Carlowrie Castle, and some are indeed still partially ruins - such as Neidpath Castle (complete with dungeon and definitely-not-haunted well). It's important to remember that older castles were originally fortresses, so natural light and big open windows are not common features.

Glencoe is one of the most iconic elopement locations in Scotland. It's definitely a favourite for me. As well as being rich in history, it's a stunning landscape that encapsulates the wilderness of the Scottish Highlands perfectly. There's plenty of paths leading to little private areas for your ceremony - just watch out for hidden bogs and bring a good pair of hiking boots if you want to venture further a-field.

Don't forget Scotland's beaches are also beautiful locations for your wedding ceremony. The West Coast has some of the best beaches, with gorgeous white sands and warm(ish) water in the summertime. Woodland weddings are also a firm favourite, and with the ancient trees of the Caledonian Forest towering above you as you exchange your vows, you'll truly have the Outlander experience.

Little Scottish Touches

There are many smaller ways to honour the Scottish culture & traditions that don't involve grand gestures like hiking halfway up Ben Nevis. You could include a bagpiper to pipe you into your ceremony and reception, or hire a ceilidh band for your evening party. It's very popular to have wedding bands that can play a mix of modern music as well as ceilidh dancing - meaning you can have the best of both worlds.

When it comes to flowers, thistles are an obvious choice - either as part of your bouquet, or your venue styling and buttonholes.

You could also include tartan ribbons into your bouquet, place settings and centre pieces.

As wedding favours for your guests, you could include miniature shortbreads, fudge or tiny bottles of whisky.

Or you can, in true traditional Scottish style, cut your wedding cake with a massive sword.

Are you feeling inspired for your own Scottish Wedding? What are you looking forward to most? Is it the cosy vibes next to a roaring fire, snowcapped mountains in view from your very own castle for the weekend? Or is it sneaking off into the wilderness with just your love, some witnesses and your wedding photographer to capture the magic moments as they happen, come rain or shine?

When it comes to photographing Scottish weddings, I always love the different traditions that are included. Whether it's something as simple as wearing a kilt or having a full on bagpiper and ceilidh band, there's something truly special and unique about the way we celebrate a marriage.