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23rd November 2023

What Wedding Venue Style Is Best For Your Big Day

The coats, paisley

Are you ready to explore some Scottish Wedding Traditions? As a Scottish Wedding Photographer I have been to many weddings in and around Ayrshire, Glasgow and Edinburgh so I have seen many beautiful tradition during my time as a photographer. I am here to share these with you to help you make your day one to remember with some of these popular traditions.


Your wedding is a massive milestone in your life that celebrates your love together and it’s the beginning of a beautiful journey together. Are you looking to bring some Scottish traditions to your big day the your in the right place. Bringing Scottish culture into your wedding can add a unique and meaningful touch. This blog let’s you explore some for your wedding day, we will explore some cherished Scottish wedding traditions and offer ideas on how to personalise your ceremony, making it truly special for you and your partner.

The Scottish Ceremony:
The Scottish wedding ceremony is steeped in history and symbolism. Most weddings couples will have an exchange of rings. This is not compulsory to solidify a marriage but it’s a worldwide tradition that almost everyone does now. But why not consider incorporating the following elements to create an authentic Scottish ambiance:

💍The Kilt: The groom and his groomsmen can don traditional Scottish kilts, representing their clan heritage. The tartan patterns can be chosen to reflect your family’s lineage or simply a design that resonates with you. Sometimes other guest may want to wear there own kilt to a wedding even if they are not part of the bridal party. I would personally always say it’s manners to ask the couple first of you can wear your kilt just to make sure it doesn’t clash with the groomsmen.

🎼 Bagpipes: The beautiful and emotional sound of bagpipes can create a captivating atmosphere during the ceremony. Nothing fills my heart more than the sounds of the bagpipes. I get chills when I hear the sounds when working or attending a wedding. You can hire a skilled bagpiper to play as guests arrive or during key moments.

🎗️Handfasting: A handfasting ritual involves binding the couple’s hands together with a tartan or ribbon, symbolising their commitment and unity. Customise the colours to reflect your personal style or incorporate family tartans to honour your roots. This is also a fun tradition to do if you have children together as the can get involved in the pulling to the fabrics. After your wedding you can even frame the fabric to display in your house.

Scottish Wedding Attire:
To infuse Scottish charm into your wedding attire, consider the following suggestions:

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scottish Accessories: Adorn your attire with traditional Scottish accessories such as a tartan sash, brooch, or sporran. These small details can add a touch of Scottish heritage without overpowering your overall look.

⭐️Tartan Wedding Dress: For a bride who wants to make a bold statement, a tartan wedding dress can be a stunning choice. I’ve yet to see one at any weddings I have attended but I’m hopeful I will see one eventually. Would you like to be the first? Incorporate your family tartan or select a tartan that holds a special meaning to you and your partner. Don’t forget the groom can also wear a tartan waistcoat or tie to complement the theme.

Scottish Traditions in the Celebration:
Enhance your wedding reception with Scottish traditions that will leave a lasting impression:

💃🏽 Ceilidh Dancing: A ceilidh (pronounced “kay-lee”) is a lively Scottish social gathering with traditional music and dancing. Hire a ceilidh band to guide your guests through the steps and enjoy the energetic and joyful atmosphere. Be warned it will get your heart pumping but it’s such a laugh.

🥃 Quaich Ceremony: The Quaich is a traditional Scottish drinking vessel used to symbolise the sharing of a drink between the couple, representing their commitment to share all the joys and sorrows of life together. Choose a meaningful beverage and sip together from the Quaich during your ceremony. Some think it has to be whiskey but this drink can be anything you like. I had a cheeky vodka coke for mine.

🍛 Scottish Cuisine: Delight your guests with a taste of Scotland by incorporating traditional Scottish dishes into your wedding menu. From haggis and neeps to salmon and whisky-infused desserts, let the flavours of Scotland bring a unique culinary experience to your celebration.


Embracing Scottish wedding traditions allows you to create a unique special day with a rich cultural heritage, creating memories that will last a lifetime. By incorporating elements such as Scottish attire, ceremonies, and traditions into your wedding, you can personalise the ceremony and reception, making it truly special to you and your partner. Remember, the most important aspect of any wedding is the love and commitment shared between two individuals, and by incorporating Scottish traditions, you can add an extra layer of meaning and celebration to your union.

I would love to know do you know any more wedding tradition? Any that you had at your own wedding? Please share I would love to know.

Did you enjoy my blog? Are you looking to have any of these tradition at your wedding day? Get in touch I would love to chat more about your special day.

Ruth Charlotte Photography

Would you like to know more about the services I offer? Great, Let’s Chat!

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