Limos Inverness

How do you plan a Scottish wedding? Find out more about what makes a Scottish wedding unique and how to plan the day to make the event run smoothly.  Limos Inverness offer a luxurious wedding limo hire service for Inverness and the surrounding areas of Scotland.

Planning A Scottish Wedding

Organising a Scottish wedding brings a blend of tradition and modernity for an unforgettable event. There are several unique elements to consider. In Scotland, couples traditionally avoid seeing each other before the ceremony, unlike cultures favouring 'first-look' photos. 

This lends to individually taken pre-ceremony and post-ceremony couple photographs. Traditionally, these weddings occur between 12 noon and 2 pm, but this can be adapted to your needs with a professional planner.

Unusually, the most popular form of marriage in Scotland is neither civil nor religious ceremonies, but Humanist and Independent ones. This difference allows for greater ceremony personalisation and flexibility. As celebrants carry the marriage license in Scotland, venues can vary widely, from hilltops to backyards. Regarding costs, remember that tipping isn't common in Scotland as wages and prices are regulated.

In planning your Scottish wedding, you'll encounter unique terms such as 'Wedding Breakfast' for the first meal of a married couple, and 'Drinks Reception' or 'Cocktail Hour' for the post-ceremony period when guests enjoy drinks and canapés. 

A 'Buttonhole' is a floral piece worn by men on their left lapel, while 'Canapés' are small refreshments served during the Drinks Reception. Financial terms to note include the possibility of a refundable security deposit from some venues and vendors. Additionally, check whether VAT (20% standard tax in the UK) is included in quotes as it could impact your budget.

Lastly, Scotland's weather is unpredictable, and having bad weather 'Plan B' is wise, regardless of your wedding's timing. 

Consider too the stark daylight variation throughout the year - Scotland enjoys up to 18 hours of sunlight in summer and only about 6 in mid-winter, affecting your venue choice and scheduling.

Planning a wedding in Scotland comes with unique considerations. Understanding these customs, terms, and potential challenges helps ensure a smooth, memorable occasion. From selecting the right celebrant to understanding cost structures, each element contributes to the allure of a Scottish wedding.

Wedding Checklist:

This process entails open, honest discussions between you and your partner about your financial expectations and limitations. Understanding what you are both comfortable with from the start can prevent any potential misunderstandings or disagreements further down the line.

Next up on the checklist is the venue, arguably one of the most crucial aspects of your wedding day. Reflect on the type of venue that would suit your personality, the style of your wedding, and the desired location. Are you envisioning a countryside setting or an urban city backdrop, or perhaps a coastal celebration? Your venue's style and location will help shape your wedding day's overall atmosphere and aesthetic, so take your time in finding your ideal spot.

12 Months+

A year might seem like a long way off, but when it comes to planning a wedding, time flies. With twelve months to go, it's time to set a date and book your venue. Your chosen date will become a significant milestone in your life, a date that will forever hold immense sentiment and joy.

Once your date is secured, it's time to order and send out save-the-date cards to your day guests. This step not only excites your guests about your upcoming nuptials but also allows them to pencil your special day into their calendars well in advance. Another important decision to make at this stage is selecting your bridal party and groomsmen. Whether you've known for years who would stand by your side or you're yet to consider it, now is the time to make your choices.

Remember to make the occasion special when asking each individual to be a part of your big day. Lastly, book appointments with bridal boutiques and begin researching potential suppliers, including florists, transport providers, cake makers, photographers, videographers, and entertainment options.

8 Months+

With only eight months until you say "I do", it's time to secure your dream wedding dress and begin shopping for the perfect bridesmaid dress. Try to get each booking for suppliers done as soon as possible to avoid disappointment due to them being fully booked.

Having your wedding dress secured at this point can be a huge weight lifted off your shoulders. This important piece of attire, probably the most significant garment you'll ever wear, has been chosen, and you can breathe a sigh of relief.

Simultaneously, it's also time to plan your honeymoon. If you intend to jet off immediately after your wedding day, now is the time to research and discuss potential honeymoon locations with your partner. Remember, many travel agencies require full payment 12 weeks before your trip, so it's a good idea to book your honeymoon as early as possible.

4 Months+

As the countdown continues, four months out from the wedding is an exciting time where you get to sample cakes for your wedding day. It's also time to finalise your wedding accessories, including shoes.

While your shoes might be hidden under your dress for most of the day, you'll want to choose a pair that complements your dress and is comfortable enough to wear all day. And of course, don't forget to book your honeymoon if you haven't already.

3 Months+

Three months out, it's time to buy your bridal lingerie, get your wedding dress altered, send out your wedding day invitations, and finalise all details of your ceremony and reception. This includes finalising the music, readings, menu, flowers, order of ceremony, and buying the wedding rings. Also, remember to order favours, venue decor, and table decor.

One of the more complex tasks around this time is beginning the seating plan. With the RSVPs starting to roll in, you can begin to form a preliminary seating chart for the reception, which you can adjust as more responses come in.

This period is also when most suppliers will require their final payments, so be prepared to settle all remaining balances. Finally, as your big day draws closer, ensure you find time to relax, breathe and enjoy every moment of this unforgettable journey. You are about to embark on a lifetime of love and happiness, and that's something truly worth celebrating.

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Are you in need of wedding limo hire services in Inverness, Scotland? Look no further than Limos Inverness. 

If you are looking for the perfect wedding limousine for hire contact us today. We offer a limo hire service for Inverness and the surrounding areas. 

We provide a wedding day chauffeur driven service which is second to none throughout the Scottish Highlands.