Scottish wedding traditions I love - for LGBTQ+ couples and everyone else

As a vendor working in weddings and elopements, I have realised that a lot of people do not know the backstory of most wedding traditions. As an LGBTQ+ elopement photographer, I know a lot of couples - not just queer - like to break with some traditions that don't align with their values, some that might be a bit outdated. I would like to refrain from picking apart all the traditions - instead, I would like to focus on all the beautiful ones we have here in Scotland, a lot of them stand on a much better ground to modern standards and relationships, and a lot of them might be much better suited to LGBTQ+ couples looking to get married. Handfasting ceremony If you have ever wondered where the 'tying the knot' phrase is coming from... Here is your answer! This is a Celtic ancient ceremony, the couple using a piece of ribbon to symbolise their lives weaving together.

Quaich ceremony The quaich is a cup with two handles. After the ceremony, the to-be-married couple drinks from this special cup, each holding one handle to symbolise their lives merging together, a symbol of unity. Often, two different types of drinks are poured together - for example, whisky and water. Traditionally, this cup was a symbol of trust, as the drinker could not reach for their weapon while holding the two handles on the sides of the cup. It is also a Scottish tradition to have a sip of whisky on top of a hill - so if you are doing an adventurous elopement, even more fitting!

I can recommend amazing celebrants I have worked with in the past. Reach out now to book a no-commitment video consultation call for your 2026 Scotland elopement, whether you are a queer couple or not. What matters is love - click here!