The Kingshouse Hotel, Glencoe deer weren't a big fan of their new neighbours!!
In Scotland, all couples now have equal right to choose between marriage and civil partnership - depending on which they feel best represents their values.
I'm a Humanist Celebrant, and I conduct legal marriages and civil partnerships across Scotland. At the heart of them, the ceremonies are inclusive and equitable. I get to know my couples so that their ceremonies reflect their values and are exactly what they are looking for.
The Civil Partnership Act 2004 first gave LGBT+ couples access to legally recognised partnership. This progressed with the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 allowing LGBT+ couples to choose if they wanted a marriage or CP. The Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2020 came into place in June 2021, giving all couples (LGBT+ or mixed gender) equal choice between marriage and CP.
Glencoe instagram vs reality
Things to consider if you're planning a Scottish elopement. I was in two minds about posting this, but I think it's something that's important to highlight.
***massive disclaimer - I love elopements, I love Glencoe, I am not trying to put people off wild elopement plans***
This is Glencoe last Sunday at about 2pm. So, a weekend, in the summer, middle of the day (not even on a sunny day). Every car parking space was full through the entire glen.
It's a classic Instagram vs Reality situation. We've all seen INCREDIBLE wild elopement photos of Glencoe. The scenery is magical and wild. I've had the joy of conducting some of these ceremonies (although off-season). Yes, you have the spectacular mountain backdrop - and it takes my breath away everytime. But, some people don't realise that you are also right beside an A-road. And in the summer and at weekends particularly, it is busy!!
So it's definitely worth considering the time of year, time of day, and day of the week when you're planning an elopement, considering how busy it'll be, particularly if you're next to a main road. It is also worth considering locations, Scotland has endless amounts of incredible scenery - mountains, woodlands, glens, beaches, lochs.
Glencoe, I love you. Promise.
No two couples are the same, so no two wedding ceremonies should be the same. Here's a wee peak at what I've been up to this weekend, and how different the days have been. It's probably one of my favourite things about being a celebrant - the variety! My days are never the same.
Both weddings, although very different, were absolutely magical!
4 simple steps for anyone planning their wedding at the moment!
How many of you know exactly what I mean?!
My real top tip, choose wedding suppliers who you love - who will keep in touch and will keep you informed. If you want to change plans, chat to them about your ideas. If you don't want to change, don't feel like you need to settle for a day you don't want. Stick with what's important to you as a couple!
You can legally get married anywhere in Scotland (with the land owner's permission). But eloping in Scotland doesn't always mean running off to Glencoe or the Isle of Skye (or Gretna Green!) There are incredible hidden gems across the whole country - often far quieter and no less beautiful.
I grew up in Dumfries and Galloway, an often forgotten corner of Scotland. But as I drove to this tiny elopement, I couldn't help but be in awe of the landscape around me.
Maybe you have had a favourite spot from a trip away, somewhere you hold fondly from your childhood, or a beautiful place where you two take your dog for a walk. There are so many incredible places to explore
Spring is here, and so is the beginning of a very busy wedding season for me. I can't wait to be part of all your weddings!!
There's no punchline - just an explanation. What is the difference between a Humanist and a Celebrant? You might come across these terms used interchangeably when you're planning your wedding.
Humanism is a non-religious outlook on life. You might be a Humanist.
A celebrant is someone who conducts ceremonies.
So I believe in humanism, and I conduct ceremonies. So I am a Humanist celebrant (you can refer to me as either!)
#humanistcelebrant
Little Love, tiny ceremonies, and huge emotions
Arin and Max chose to have their wedding on the banks of Loch Lomond, with their two dear friends as witness. It just so happened that their friends are awesome musicians @btennick and Sam, allowing them to have their beautiful first dance on the most picturesque of dance floors.
Watch to the end for a moment of utter joy!
First dance - Little Love by Gabriel Kahane, the song couldn't have fit more perfectly with their day. They then went home to have a huge Zoom party, with a poem from Max's sister and a lot of booze! Can't wait to celebrate with you all over again when we can have a big gathering ❤️
(Due to restrictions, I was their stand-in videographer. So excuse my crunchy feet on the stones)
