Legal Wedding Ceremonies

How?

Rites and Rituals Scotland are authorised by the Registrar General to conduct legal wedding ceremonies in Scotland.

What?

Your ceremony can include lots of personal touches but you will need to make a declaration in the presence of each other, the celebrant and two witnesses, that you either accept each other as husband and wife or accept each other in marriage. There will also be a declaration by the celebrant, that the parties are then *husband and wife or are then married.

Where?

From the Outer Hebrides to the beautiful Borders, your ceremony can be held anywhere in Scotland... on top of a mountain, by a loch, in your garden or in a pub!

Mood?

Whether you want a ceremony that's laugh-out-loud funny or deeply heartfelt, we'll create the perfect atmosphere for your special day. Remember, each Celebrant has a unique style, so it's important to choose one who truly resonates with your vision.

Who?

If it is a legal wedding ceremony, you will need to have 2 witnesses over the age of 16 present.

What next?

Either visit the individual Celebrants websites and contact them from there, or send an email to hello@ritesandrituals.co.uk

Please let us know if you are drawn to any particular Celebrant.

Inclusivity

For simplicity, we have used the term "husband and wife." However, this can also refer to "wife and wife," "husband and husband," or any other partnership.

Legal Wedding Ceremonies

What is a Legal Wedding Ceremony?

A legal wedding ceremony is an official and binding event where two people come together to declare their love and commitment in front of witnesses. This ceremony marks the beginning of a couple’s married life and is recognised by law. In Scotland, couples have the unique opportunity to tailor their legal wedding ceremonies to suit their personal preferences and beliefs. From Spiritual Ceremonies in stunning locations to Religious or Non-Religious ceremonies that reflect your values, a legal wedding in Scotland offers a beautiful and meaningful way to start your life together. Rites & Rituals Scotland is authorised by the Registrar General to conduct legal weddings in Scotland.

Why Choose a Legal Wedding Ceremony in Scotland?

Scotland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and romantic charm, making it a perfect destination for a legal wedding ceremony. Whether you dream of a traditional ceremony in a grand castle, a contemporary celebration in a chic city venue, or an intimate gathering amidst the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the options are endless. Scotland’s flexibility in wedding locations means you can legally marry almost anywhere—from ancient ruins and secluded beaches to picturesque gardens and historic landmarks.

How Does the Legal Side of Things Work?

To get legally married in Scotland, a couple needs to follow several steps to ensure their marriage is recognised by law. First, both parties must submit a Marriage Notice Form (M10) to the registrar in the district where they plan to marry. This form must be submitted no later than 29 days before the wedding date, though it is strongly recommended not to wait this long. The earliest you can submit the forms is 12 weeks before your ceremony. We recommend you do this 10 to 12 weeks in advance to avoid any issues. Along with the forms, the couple must provide birth certificates, valid passports, and any necessary documentation such as proof of divorce or death certificates if either party has been previously married.

Both parties must also be at least 16 years old and must not be closely related. Additionally, they must provide a declaration stating that there is no legal impediment to their marriage. Once the forms and documents are submitted and the registrar is satisfied, a Marriage Schedule is issued. This document is essential for the ceremony, as it is the official document that will be signed by the couple, the Celebrant, and two witnesses on the day of the wedding.

After the ceremony, the signed Marriage Schedule must be returned to the registrar within three days. The registrar then officially records the marriage and issues the marriage certificate, which legally completes the process. By following these steps, couples can ensure that their marriage is legally recognised in Scotland.

For couples coming from outside Scotland, the process is largely the same, but there are a few additional considerations. Non-residents must still submit their Marriage Notice Forms and required documents well in advance, ensuring they account for international mailing times and potential delays. They may also need to provide a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) from their home country to prove that they are free to marry. Some countries have specific additional documentation requirements for their citizens marrying abroad, so it’s important to check with local authorities. Furthermore, if either party is from outside the UK or does not hold settled or pre-settled status, they may need to apply for a marriage visitor visa before coming to Scotland. By carefully preparing these additional documents, international couples can enjoy a smooth and legally compliant wedding in Scotland.

Begin Your Adventure in Scotland

Starting your life together with a legal wedding ceremony in Scotland is a wonderful way to celebrate your love story. Whether you are drawn to the dramatic cliffs of the coastline, the rolling hills of the Highlands, or the historic charm of Scotland’s cities, your wedding will be filled with beauty and romance. Say “Aye do” in Scotland, and let this remarkable country be the setting for the first chapter of your life together.