Why I would choose an elopement in Scotland in 2026

Elopements have become quite popular in recent years. Everyone has different reasons for eloping - for some, it is about escaping the chaos and stress of planning, for some, it is about cutting costs, and for others, it's about having an intimate experience. Today, I would like to share some different positives, scenarios, and why I would choose an elopement in Scotland in 2026 as an LGBTQ+ person.

As an LGBTQ+ elopement photographer in Scotland, sometimes during conversations, I am reminded how a lot of people are surprised by people still eloping, all the reasons why they do, and how it does not necessarily mean one strict thing. Why Scotland? Some couples decide to elope because of complicated family dynamics, or expectations around who to invite - in my personal experience, this can especially be the case within the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you are living in Scotland and the UK, or you are thinking of travelling here, I believe Scotland is the perfect place to elope, as it is very accepting and welcoming. Now, this is just my experience of living here as a queer person in the past 6+ years. A fairly straight-passing, white woman, living in Edinburgh - of course, I am very well aware of my privilege - but I still very much think and believe that Scots are super welcoming, friendly and open-minded! When I am with my couples, people are always so excited to congratulate them and say a few kind words - whether they are queer or not.

Is it only an elopement if it's just the couple? It is a common question, if it only counts as eloping, if it is strictly the couple and the witnesses, photographer, and celebrant. The truth is - there are no rules. That is the reason why I LOVE elopement so much, and I truly believe you should just do whatever you want to do! Some people decide not to have anyone there, as they truly want this to be an intimate experience - and yes, some people choose to elope before or after their wedding, to have a more private ceremony, perhaps more time for photographs as well. However, sometimes couples decide to have their closest friends and family present on their elopement day, as for them it is more intimate and meaningful to have them witness their love and special moment. Personally, as an introverted person, I really see the benefits of a private ceremony, with just my partner, so I would feel completely free to be myself and let my emotions flow freely.

It is always an option to have a separate reception another day, where you can celebrate with friends and family - the best of both worlds, less stress, and extremely introvert-friendly, as you could decide to just have a very relaxed gathering/party instead of you being the focus of the day, with strict and tight timelines!

Budgeting One great thing about elopements is - it can be much cheaper than weddings! The most expensive part of wedding planning is hiring a venue and catering costs. You could have the ceremony in the breathtakingly beautiful Scottish outdoors, enjoy the scenery and perhaps the tradition of drinking whisky on a hill, then relax and enjoy your evening in a cosy cottage by the fire. You could use the extra funds to see Scotland and have your honeymoon after your elopement day - I can not imagine a better, more romantic place than Scotland for your honeymoon.

If you feel this would be just up your alley, please get in touch so we can discuss dates for 2026. You can book a video call with me - a casual chat, no commitment to book! Stay tuned for some other exciting blog posts about why I am so in love with every elopement I do as an LGBTQ+ photographer, here in Bonnie Scotland.