YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
ARE HUMANIST CEREMONIES LEGALLY BINDING?
YES! Humanist marriages have been legally recognised in Scotland since 2005 and are performed by celebrants trained by Humanist Society Scotland.
Recent figures show that humanist marriages are now the number one choice in Scotland for couples wanting to have something more personal than a registry office ceremony.
CAN YOU GET MARRIED ANYWHERE IN SCOTLAND?
YES! You can get married anywhere in Scotland (as long as it is safe, dignified and you have the landowners permission). I conduct weddings at the top of mountains in the Scottish Highlands, by beautiful Lochs and many more beautiful locations all over Scotland. You're spoilt for choice!
Anywhere, anytime!
WE DON'T LIVE IN SCOTLAND, CAN YOU STILL MARRY US?
Absolutely! I have authorisation and a license to marry in Scotland. Humanist weddings in England, Wales, Guernsey and the Isle of Man do not currently have legal status but this is an ongoing campaign
It does make Scotland a very popular destination to get married for couples from all over the world...
If you are coming from out with the UK you may require a Marriage Visa.
WE ARE PLANNING AN OUTDOOR WEDDING, IS THIS CRAZY?
Crazy, no, brave, yes! Scotland isn't famous for it's tropical weather; but it does provide breath taking views! If you want to get married outside, go for it! 80% of my weddings are held outside, so I'm right behind you! My advice for outdoor weddings is always have a Plan B just in case.
This can be in your accommodation, in your venue or under shelter. Please remember in parts of Scotland we have wee buggers called midgies, they come out to play from May-September.
HOW LONG DOES A CEREMONY TAKE?
A typical ceremony takes 30-40 mins. Obviously if its wet and cold, and during the nippy winter months; I won't put you through that pain. Time may vary depending on how many elements like handfasting or readings you choose to include in your ceremony.
WHAT DOES YOUR FEE INCLUDE?
A meet and greet planning meeting (either face to face if you're local or over Zoom)
I get to know you, and you can suss me out too.
The writing of your love story & script
Unique to my ceremonies - Guides and a helping hand to writing your vows, structure and symbolic gestures
Attendance and super star delivery of your ceremony on the day of your wedding
My travel costs (quoted at the beginning)
Local supplier guidance & recommendations
An electronic copy of your script
Advice, care, laughs and support through the good, the bad and the lovely, and free hugs!
DO YOU OFFER SAME SEX WEDDING CEREMONIES?
ABSOLUTELY! I'm so sorry you had to ask! I believe in equality, and treating others the way I wish to be treated. For me, what's important is that you're madly in love! Same sex marriages became legal in Scotland in December 2014.
My first ever wedding was a gay couple, one I'll never forget!
WE WANT TO ELOPE, BUT WE HAVE A BABY, IS THIS WISE?
I can help! I've had lots of couples get married with children. Everything is possible. Becca & David eloped with their wee baby in the pandemic, and I took wee Phoebe for the ceremony so her Mum & Dad could focus on each other and being in the moment.
WE ARE COMING FROM THE STATES/CANADA - HOW DO WE GO ABOUT THE MARRIAGE VISA BIT?
It's a lengthy process, and a little complicated. It's best we have a wee chat, and I give you the lowdown. You also have the option to do the legal bit at home, and have a marriage blessing here in Scotland. Less stress, less paperwork. Same love, same emotion.