Curious about how to get married in Scotland as a US citizen? If you’ve been dreaming of rugged coastlines, misty hills, and historic castles tucked away mysteriously into lush landscapes, a destination wedding in Scotland might just be everything you’ve been hoping for.
I’m sharing my tips to help guide you through all the things you need to start planning your Scotland wedding. Let’s begin!
Getting Married In Scotland For Foreigners: What To Consider
Once you’ve decided on Scotland as your wedding destination, the first step is to begin your research. Edinburgh and Glasgow offer the main international airports, making them convenient entry points. From there, you can either rent a car or arrange private transport for a relaxed journey.
Staying close to your venue is always ideal, with options ranging from charming inns and cosy Airbnbs to incredible castles.
Now, let’s talk budget! Having an understanding of the realistic cost of a destination wedding in Scotland and a clear budget from the beginning can help you stay focused as you start booking the essentials, like your venue and your key local suppliers.
So, just how much is a wedding in Scotland? For a luxury wedding in Scotland, couples tend to spend around £80,000 to £150,000+ — roughly $100,000 to $200,000+ USD.
Once your budget is set, the next step is to create a checklist of your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and any extras. This will help keep both your timeline and budget on track.
Here’s a sample checklist to get you started:
- Choose a date
- Secure a venue
- Hiring a wedding planner (especially helpful when planning from abroad)
- Book a photographer and videographer
- Arrange transport for guests (if needed)
- Book accommodations (for both you and your guests)
- Line up additional local suppliers, such as:
- A florist
- A celebrant
- A caterer
- Send out invitations (well in advance)
What Documents Do Americans Need To Get Married In Scotland?
When it comes to documentation, you’ll need to submit a few key forms. Every couple must complete a Marriage Notice (Form M10) and submit it to the local registrar in the area where the ceremony will take place.
Along with that, you’ll need a Certificate of No Impediment for marriage in Scotland, which proves you’re free to marry. This document must be obtained from your local authority back home in the United States before you travel. Be sure to allow plenty of time for processing, as this document can take a few weeks to receive.
You’ll also need to provide supporting documents such as your birth certificates, valid passports, and any divorce decrees or death certificates if you’ve been previously married or widowed. In some cases, you may need a marriage visitor visa for Scotland, especially if you plan to stay longer than six months or have other immigration requirements.
In terms of timing, it’s best to start the paperwork process at least three to six months before your wedding date, just to be safe. You’ll need to submit your completed marriage notice forms no earlier than three months, and no later than 29 days, before the big day.
And finally, how much is a marriage license in Scotland? Well, fees can vary slightly by council, but you can expect to pay around £100 to £200 for the marriage notice and ceremony registration combined, which roughly converts to $125 to $250 USD.
Choosing The Best Month To Get Married In Scotland
The best time to get married in Scotland really depends on the atmosphere you’re hoping to create for your day.
Spring (March to May) offers mild weather with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), bringing blooming landscapes and fewer crowds. It’s perfect for couples seeking a peaceful, romantic vibe without the hustle of peak season.
Summer (June to August) is the most popular time for getting married in Scotland as an American, with long daylight hours, lush greenery, and a lively energy. Temperatures can range from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), though it can occasionally get warmer. If you have your heart set on a summer wedding in Scotland, be sure to plan well in advance to secure your ideal venue and suppliers, as this is the most popular wedding season in the country.
If you’re drawn to a more intimate setting, autumn (September to November) provides a stunning, moody backdrop with vibrant fall colours, cooler temperatures around 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), and fewer tourists.
For you’re looking for something more dramatic, winter (December to February) offers a fairytale setting ideal for castle weddings and snow-capped landscapes. Temperatures in winter can range from 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F), so it’s important to dress warmly, especially for outdoor ceremonies.
No matter the season you choose, one of my pro Scotland destination wedding tips is that Scotland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so come prepared for anything, rain or shine!
How To Choose Your Venue
The key to choosing the right venue lies in finding a place that resonates with the atmosphere you want to create for your day. Consider your desired aesthetic, and whether you’re seeking the grandeur of a historic castle or the simplicity of a romantic countryside Airbnb.
Your guest list and the time of day will also play a role in your venue choice. Larger weddings may suit grand venues with expansive grounds, while intimate affairs might feel more at home in a cosy, secluded location.
Not sure where to begin? Here are a few venues I feel are worth exploring:
- Duns Castle for an unforgettable, fairy-tale castle experience.
- The Lodge on Loch Goil for an intimate, lakeside retreat.
- Glen Etive for adventurous couples seeking a breathtaking Highland backdrop.
- The Balmoral Hotel for a luxurious, city centre experience in Edinburgh.
And Don’t Forget To Hire Local Vendors!
When planning a wedding in Scotland, hiring local vendors is key. Certainly take the time to look into local wedding planners in Scotland, as they will be able to help with all aspects of how to plan a wedding abroad in Scotland, from legal paperwork to vendor bookings and weather plans.
And of course, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is hiring a local wedding photographer for your special day. As an experienced wedding photographer in Edinburgh (and Scotland-wide), I have a deep knowledge of Scotland’s stunning landscapes and venues, which allows me to capture your day exactly as it unfolds and with all the romance, beauty, and emotion you experience.
If you’re ready to plan your dream wedding in Scotland, reach out to me today and let’s make some magic!
