Scottish Elopements and Small Weddings : A guide for the roamers, explorers and lovers.
I originally wrote this post around two years ago. Since the world has changed dramatically since my original post, I thought that it would be a good idea to do a wee update and provide some fresh content/perspective.
Have you ever thought “let’s just run away and get married… just the two of us”? Be honest. I bet you have! Well you’ve now been given the opportunity to do just that, without offending hundreds of people!
Shooting elopements in the wilderness of Scotland is by far my favourite thing about being a photographer. I love strapping on my hiking boots, grabbing my camera and taking a trek with a couple of likeminded adventurers. I’ve been to every corner of Scotland to shoot elopements and small weddings; Skye, Lewis, Mull, and Glencoe were some of my highlights, but each and every one has been so memorable.
There’s something really special about sharing such an intimate and important day with a couple, and I don’t take for granted how privileged I am to be part of such an important journey for any couple.
I’ve been soaked, I’ve been sun burned and I’ve been chased by deer, sheep and massive highland cows. I’ve loved every second!
The current restrictions in relation to weddings obviously make it impossible to have a big wedding right now, so if you’re planning on stripping things back and having a smaller wedding, please get in touch to discuss your plans in more detail.
Here are a few tips for couples that are planning to elope that I have picked up along the way:
Use your photographer and videographer as a witness - You’ll need two witnesses to the nuptials to make them legally binding. If you’re planning a super intimate elopement and can’t think who to use… use your photographer. I’ve been a witness and loads of weddings and it’s always an honour.
Bring hiking boots - The amazing thing about elopements and small weddings is that there is usually a lot more time for portraits compared to a traditional wedding. You’ve therefore got loads of time to throw on some boots and hike up a mountain… or a small hill.
Prepare for all types of weather - Scotland’s weather can be pretty unpredictable. Most of the elopements I’ve been part of have been outdoor ceremonies, some in the beautiful sunshine and some in the craziest wind and rain. Bring a nice umbrella.
Find the right person to conduct your ceremony - Whether you are having a humanist, civil or religious ceremony, I think that the person that conducts the ceremony makes such a big difference. So make sure that you find someone that shares your spirit of adventure and takes the time to get to know your personalities. I know lots of amazing wedding suppliers, so let me know if you need some recommendations.
Make dinner arrangements - After a day of exploring the wilderness of Scotland, you’ll probably work up a bit of an appetite. You will also have earned a stiff dram or a few bottles of wine. So make sure that you have a table booked somewhere local for the evening
Book accommodation well in advance - Some locations (especially Skye) can get booked up quite quickly, so make sure that you find that perfect AirBnB or Hotel. Check out Canopy and Stars for some really awesome and unusual places to stay.
So… let’s start planning your adventure together.
Here is some inspiration from some of my previous Scottish elopements…
