The Ultimate Guide
How to Elope in Scotland
Everything you need to know about eloping in Scotland from the USA, Canada, Australia or anywhere else in the world. From visas to vows, we’ve got you covered.
Not a huge wedding person? Can’t picture yourself walking down an aisle in front of 150 people you barely speak to?
Yup. Same. π
That’s probably what brought you here. You’re not looking for a production. You’re looking for meaning. The kind of wedding day that feels just right. The kind of elopement that binds you to each other β and maybe even to this land.
We’re Matt & Jodie β aka The Sassenachs β and we’re here to help you make that happen.
We’re not wedding planners. We’re elopement photographers who also help with planning. That means we help you figure out what you actually want, guide you through the logistics, and take stunning, heartfelt photographs of the whole thing.
If that sounds like what you’re after, grab a cup of tea (or a dram of whisky β we won’t judge) because this guide is for you.
Why Elope in Scotland?
There’s a reason Scotland has become one of the most popular elopement destinations in the world. Here’s what makes it so special:
β¨ Legal Flexibility
Scotland is one of the only places in the world where you can legally get married anywhere. Castle ruins? Forest glades? The edge of a cliff at golden hour? All fair game. As long as you have a registered celebrant, you can say your vows wherever your heart desires.
β¨ No Residency Requirements
You don’t need to be a UK citizen. You don’t need to live here for a certain number of days. The process is surprisingly straightforward (and we’ll help you with it). Most of our couples come from the USA, Canada and Australia β and they manage just fine.
β¨ Iconic Backdrops
This place doesn’t try to be photogenic β it just is. From craggy peaks to calm lochs, castle walls to windswept beaches, Scotland serves serious main-character energy without needing filters. Every corner is a photo opportunity.
β¨ Deeply Personal Vibes
There’s something about the stillness of this place that invites connection. When you elope here, you give yourselves space to feel everything: joy, quiet, awe, and the gravity of what you’re doing. It’s not just a wedding. It’s an experience.
Behind the Lens
Hey, we’re Jodie & Matt
We’re just two down-to-earth people who love capturing elopements. We don’t have an intimidating backstory. In fact, we met in the Office. We are basically Jim and Pam β IYKYK. (Sorry, Roy.)
Based in the Highlands, parents to 3 kids and 2.5 dogs (we can explain) and 1 cat, we love Scotland and we want to share it with you.
We love The Big Bang Theory, The Office, Outlander (obvs). We drink too many cocktails (is there such a thing?). And we are STILL mad at the ending of Game of Thrones.
Oh, and Matt is Harry Potter OBSESSED.
For more than a decade, we’ve specialised in photographing Scottish weddings and elopements, helping couples craft unforgettable experiences. We’re here to make your dream day stress-free and uniquely yours.
What Does an Elopement Day Actually Look Like?
The truth? It looks however you want it to. But here’s an example based on one of our favourite autumnal elopements:
The Morning
You wake up in a wee cosy cottage tucked away at the bottom of a mountain. The fire’s still warm from the night before. You make coffee and sit together quietly, soaking it in. No makeup artist bustling about. No chaotic bridesmaids. No rigid timeline. Just the two of you, about to do something beautiful.
Getting Ready
We arrive with our cameras β but we don’t take them out straight away. We’re here to get to know you better as you start to get ready. Jodie can help with hair and makeup, Matt will tell (probably terrible) jokes. We’ll take a few photos here and there, all the time making sure this doesn’t turn into a photoshoot. It’s your morning. We’re just there to capture it.
Getting Married
We head out to the ceremony spot we chose together. Maybe it’s a wild glen, a castle ruin, or the top of a hill with no one for miles. Your celebrant is already there, waiting to join you in matrimony. You exchange your vows witnessed by the beautiful Scottish scenery. Wind in your hair. Tears in your eyes. And just like that, you’re married.
Afterwards
Champagne. Hugs. Maybe a small picnic. We wander with you to the nearby cliffs or lochs for relaxed, beautiful portraits. No stiff posing. No fuss. Just the real stuff β laughter, nerves, the wind in your hair, that look you give each other when no one else is watching.
The Evening
You head back to your accommodation and have dinner just you two. No speeches. No terror-filled first dance. No Uncle Barry doing karaoke. And just like that, your most perfect wedding day draws to a close. Simple. Meaningful. Yours.
Where Will You Elope?
Here’s the fun part: you’re spoiled for choice. And we know the best bits. Here are a few of our faves:
Glencoe
Moody, majestic, dramatic. Perfect if you want that epic Highlands feel. Very popular for a reason β and we know hidden spots off the tourist track. We lived here for years, so trust us when we say we know every corner.
Explore GlencoeEdinburgh
A romantic city elopement with cobbled streets, castle views and Holyrood Park (literally feels like the Highlands within a city). Ideal for couples who want a mix of history, charm and ease β with incredible restaurants and hotels just steps away.
Explore EdinburghMidhope Castle (Lallybroch)
Yes, THAT Lallybroch. We can help you elope at the filming location of Jamie Fraser’s family home from Outlander. It’s private, romantic, and absolutely one of a kind. Oh, and we’re the only ones who offer this. So… yay!
Explore LallybrochIsle of Skye
Where folklore meets landscape. Think sea cliffs, fairy pools, and otherworldly backdrops. Ideal for couples willing to go a bit off-grid. Just be warned β it gets very busy in summer, so we recommend SeptemberβMay for a more peaceful experience.
Cairngorms
Peaceful, less touristy, with ancient Caledonian pine forests, mountain lochs and golden light in autumn. A dream for slow, heartfelt ceremonies. It’s also home to red squirrels, pine martens, and if you’re lucky, the shy western capercaillie.
Argyll & West Coast
Underrated coastal beauty, dramatic seas and intimate venues. Great for couples wanting a touch of wild with some solid creature comforts. One of those places that feels like it’s all yours.
Not sure which location is right for you? Don’t worry β we’ll help you figure it out. We’ve explored every corner of Scotland and can match you with a spot that feels perfect.
The Legal Stuff
Here’s the need-to-know stuff for getting legally married in Scotland as an international couple. It’s more straightforward than you think β promise.
Decide: Legal or Symbolic?
About half of our couples from North America do the legal part of their wedding here in Scotland. The other half choose to complete the paperwork back home (signing their marriage certificate at a courthouse or registry office), then have a symbolic ceremony here.
Both options are equally beautiful and meaningful β we honestly don’t notice any difference. The vows you exchange are the meaningful thing, not signing on the dotted line. The only difference is whether you sign a marriage certificate at the end of the ceremony.
Apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa (if needed)
If you’re from the USA, Canada, Australia or most other countries and want a legal ceremony in Scotland, you’ll need a Marriage Visitor Visa. This is different from a standard tourist visa.
The visa costs Β£127 per person and you can apply up to 3 months before your ceremony date. You’ll need to attend a biometrics appointment in your country. For USA couples, there are 10 premium visa application centres plus 130 regional Application Support Centres across the country.
Important: If you’re having a symbolic ceremony only (with no legal paperwork in Scotland), you don’t need this visa β a standard tourist entry is fine.
Submit Your Marriage Notice (M10 Form)
For a legal ceremony, you’ll both need to complete an M10 Marriage Notice Form and submit it to the registrar of the district where you’ll be married. This must be done at least 29 days before your ceremony (but we recommend doing it 10β12 weeks ahead to be safe).
The fee is Β£100 total (Β£45 per form plus Β£10 for the marriage register entry). You’ll need birth certificates, photo ID, and if you’re not a UK national, a Declaration of Immigration Status form.
Choose Your Celebrant
For outdoor ceremonies, we recommend a humanist celebrant from Humanist Society Scotland. They’re warm, flexible, and can legally marry you anywhere β from a mountaintop to a castle ruin.
We’ve worked with loads of celebrants over the years and can recommend ones who’ll be just right for you. Religious and civil registrar options are also available if you prefer.
Arrange Witnesses
You’ll need two witnesses who are at least 16 years old. If you’re eloping just the two of you, we’re more than happy to act as your witnesses β we’ve done it many times and it always feels like a real honour.
Collect Your Marriage Schedule
Once your notice is approved, you’ll be issued a Marriage Schedule. You must collect this in person from the registrar’s office no earlier than 7 days before your ceremony. Important: Most offices are open MonβFri, 9amβ5pm only. If you’re getting married on a weekend, you’ll need to collect it by Friday.
After your ceremony, you have 3 days to return the signed schedule to the registrar. Many offices have a postbox for weekend drop-offs.
Get Married!
Say your vows. Sign the papers (if legal). Kiss. Pop the champagne. You’re married! π
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be. We’ve helped hundreds of couples navigate this process and we’ll guide you through every step. It really is more straightforward than it sounds.
“Not only do they take AMAZING photographs but they make the day such a memorable experience. We trusted them completely and they made the whole experience fun and stress-free. I don’t think there are enough positive words in the dictionary to properly describe what it is to elope in Scotland, let alone to have The Sassenachs be your guides.”
California, USA
What Does It Cost?
Your elopement can be as simple or as styled as you like. Here’s a rough breakdown of what to expect:
7-Night Trip Total Estimate
$10,000 β $15,000 USD
All-inclusive: flights, accommodation, photography, celebrant, food and a week’s honeymoon adventure
Compare that to a typical UK wedding (average cost: Β£40,000+) and you’re not just saving money β you’re gaining an adventure. We’ll help you figure out what matters most and tailor your experience around that. No waste, no wedding tax.
When Should You Elope?
Every season in Scotland has its own magic. Here’s what to expect:
Winter
December β February
Moody skies, snow-dusted peaks, cosy firesides. Fewer tourists. Golden hour lasts all day. Perfect for couples who embrace the elements and want dramatic, atmospheric photos. Just pack layers!
Spring
March β May
Longer days, blooming heather, waterfalls in full flow. Late April and May tend to have some of the driest and sunniest weather Scotland gets all year. Great for soft, romantic light.
Summer
June β August
Long daylight (sunset can be as late as 10:30pm!), lush green landscapes. But also the busiest tourist season β especially in August when Edinburgh hosts the Fringe. Book accommodation early!
Autumn
September β November
Our favourite season. Glorious golden colours, atmospheric mists, fewer crowds. September and October offer magical light and the landscapes are absolutely stunning. We book up a year in advance for October!
Our recommendation? September to November for the perfect balance of colour, light and privacy. But honestly, Scotland is beautiful year-round. We’ve photographed elopements in horizontal rain and blazing sunshine β and they’ve all been magical.
Want Even More Detail?
Get our free ULTIMATE 30+ page guide to eloping in Scotland β locations, what to wear, seasonal advice and more.
NOW INCLUDING SUPPLIER RECOMMENDATIONS!
Download Free GuidePractical Stuff You Should Know
- Do we need to hire a car? Yes β unless you’re having an Edinburgh-only elopement. Public transport is good in cities but once you’re in the Highlands, you’ll need wheels. Hire from the airport (easier than city centre) and don’t worry β you’ll get used to driving on the “correct” side of the road pretty quickly. Just be aware the roads can get very narrow!
- What if it rains? We embrace it. Rain makes great photos β some of our most romantic shots have been taken in the wildest weather. We always have waterproof ponchos, golf umbrellas, dry-robes and hand-warmers ready. And weather fronts move through quickly here, so if it’s pouring at noon, wait 30 minutes and the sun often peeks out.
- What should we wear? Don’t underestimate Scottish weather! Whatever month you’re getting married (including summer), bring waterproofs and layers. For autumn/winter ceremonies, we recommend merino wool tights under your dress, fingerless gloves, and sturdy waterproof boots for exploring afterwards.
- Can we bring guests? Of course! Many of our couples bring a small group of family or friends. Some bring just parents. Some bring no one at all. There’s no right or wrong β it’s your day.
- Can we bring our dog? Yes. Please do. We’ve photographed many a four-legged witness. They’re often the best ones.
- Can you help with accommodation? Absolutely. We’ll give you a personal list of trusted places and suppliers based on where you’re eloping and your style. We can plan a whole itinerary for your trip to Scotland if you want β we love doing it.
- How far in advance should we book? We’re already booking 2026 and only take a limited number of couples each year. Reach out as soon as you’re ready to chat β especially if you’re thinking autumn (our October dates fill up a year ahead).
- Getting to Scotland: Most international couples fly into Edinburgh (EDI) or Glasgow (GLA). Edinburgh is great if you’re exploring the east coast; Glasgow is closer to the Highlands and Glencoe. There are direct flights from most major US and Canadian cities.
More Questions?
Will my marriage be recognised back home?
Yes β Scottish marriages are legally recognised in the USA, Canada, Australia and most other countries. However, it’s your responsibility to check with your local authorities if you have any concerns. For peace of mind, many couples do the legal paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony here.
Do we need a permit for outdoor ceremonies?
It depends on the location. Some popular spots require permits (usually Β£50βΒ£150) but it is pretty rare, especially outside of Edinburgh. We’ll help you navigate this β we know which locations need them and how to apply. Generally, you’ll want to sort permits several months in advance.
What’s included in your photography package?
Both of us β two photographers, all day. Full planning support from booking to the big day. Location scouting and recommendations. Supplier introductions (celebrants, florists, hair & makeup). Legal marriage guidance. Travel across mainland Scotland included. All your images, hand-edited and beautifully delivered. See full details on our pricing page.
Can you photograph just the ceremony, or do you do shorter packages?
We only offer full-day coverage. We’ve found that shorter packages don’t give us (or you) the space to relax into the day and capture all the real, beautiful moments. Elopements deserve time, not a clock-watching rush.
What if we’re not “photogenic”?
Neither are we! Honestly, you don’t need to be. We don’t do stiff, posed photos. We capture real moments β laughter, nerves, the wind in your hair, that look you give each other when no one’s watching. You just need to show up and be yourselves. We’ll handle the rest.
Do you travel outside Scotland?
We’re Scotland specialists β it’s what we know and love best. Travel across mainland Scotland is included in our package. We don’t currently do Skye anymore because it’s become too busy and we believe your ceremony deserves a bit of privacy. But we have plenty of equally stunning alternatives!
Can we include Scottish traditions?
Absolutely! Many couples choose to include things like drinking from a quaich (a traditional Scottish loving cup), handfasting (binding your hands together with cloth), or using an oathing stone. Your celebrant can help weave these into your ceremony.
So… Why Choose Us?
Because we’re not in this for the Pinterest moment. We’re in it for YOUR moment.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all weddings. We believe in happy tears, muddy boots and messy hair.
We believe in helping you have a day that makes you feel more you than you ever have before.
With over 10 years of experience and more than 200 elopements captured across Scotland’s unique landscapes, we’ve gathered everything you need to plan your adventure. We’re not just photographers β we’re your guides, your witnesses, your hairpin wranglers and your raincoat holders.
You’re not just planning a wedding β you’re creating an adventure. And we’re here to help you every step of the way.
If that sounds like your kind of wedding day β we’d love to tell your story.
Ready to Start Planning?
Let’s chat about your Scotland elopement. No pressure, no sales pitch β just a conversation about what you’re dreaming of and how we can help make it happen.
Let’s Tell Your Story