5 Things to know when planning your elopement in the Scottish Highlands - Heather McKay Photography - Wedding Photographer, Scotland, UK

The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most incredible, untouched landscapes in the world, making it the perfect location for your elopement. From the dramatic mountain peaks of Glencoe to the soft sand of Sandwood Bay, the possibilities are endless for an adventure unique to you. Planning your elopement is fun and exciting, but it can feel a little overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Here are five key tips to keep in mind when planning your intimate wedding in the Scottish Highlands.

1. Choose Your Location Carefully

The beauty of the Scottish Highlands is that you can get married quite literally anywhere! From the mystical forests of the Cairngorms to towering peaks of Glencoe, deciding on a location for your elopement is one of the most important stages.

First, consider the vibe you’re looking for. Are you dreaming of an Outlander-style adventure across the heathered moors, exchanging vows on the quiet shore of a secluded beach, or living your fairytale dreams in the ruins of a castle? Once you’ve narrowed down the vibe, consider accessibility. The Highlands are largely unoccupied due to the harsh nature of the land, meaning public transport is rarely an option and driving is necessary. Many locations are remote and will require you, your suppliers and/or witnesses to hike and climb through uneven or challenging ground from the nearest road. The best thing you can do is reach out to local suppliers who will be familiar with the terrain, accessibility and conditions - our experience is invaluable at this stage in the planning process so don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

If you haven’t decided on a location yet, check out my favourite elopement spots

2. Be Prepared for every kind of weather

When it comes to Scotland, we expect frosty mornings, glorious sunshine, gale force winds, an absolute downpour, and a gentle summer breeze all in the one day. The weather is unpredictable and can change dramatically at the drop of hat and this is all just part of the adventure when eloping to the Highlands.

I recommend packing for every season – make sure to have wooly layers, walking boots, shawls or scarfs, and at least 8 pairs of cosy socks! Even in the height of summer the temperature can drop quickly, so I recommend having cardigans and jumpers that can be layered quickly, as well as a change for the car if it rains. As long as you’re prepared for all kinds of weather and are excited to embrace whatever comes your way, your elopement will feel perfect and wildly you. There’s nothing quite like getting soaked in a freak downpour before watching a rainbow emerge as the sun splits the sky, and a gorgeous blend of the elements really adds that magic to your gallery.

3. Timing Is Key - Consider the Seasons

The Scottish Highlands are truly incredible all year round, and the season you plan your elopement for can change your experience and your gallery dramatically.

The summer months of May-August tend to offer the warmest and sunniest weather, although July can get more rain that most. Throughout summer, particularly further North, experience our longest days with the sun rising around 4am and setting after 10pm – perfect for longer elopements with jam-packed days. Plus, summer has the added bonus of lush, green nature brimming with life. April and September tend to be quieter with cooling temperatures, and perfectly suited to more peaceful and intimate elopements. Throughout September and October, begin to see the colours of the landscape change to a deep orange as autumn sets in. Winter is long is Scotland, stretching from October-March, and tends to be the most most quiet season. Although icy and cold, the atmosphere is rich and unique with snowy mountains, frosty mornings and low hanging mist, creating a magical wintery scene.

Consider the scenery you’re envisioning as well as the atmosphere and experience you’re hoping for. Be sure to check accessibility with local suppliers and ensure you can find accommodation before making arrangements – the area can get busy during summer and some locations will be inaccessible over winter.

4. Hire Local Experts to Help Bring Your Vision to Life

Planning a destination elopement requires coordination, communication and thorough planning and, when it comes to the Scottish Highlands, local expertise is essential. Local suppliers are familiar with the area and can advise you at every stage to make sure your elopement runs smoothly, from scouting locations to helping with your notice of marriage documents.

Working with a local photographer ensures you have someone present who can get the most out of your ceremony location, knows the best route to travel to your favourite loch for a cold dip following your vows, and can recommend other suppliers to help bring your vision to reality. Your elopement is all about doing it your way, so approach local suppliers with your ideas to make them possible.

Local planners can help with logistics such as permits and travel arrangements to ensure the important details are in place. This is a role your photographer often takes on, so it’s especially important to choose a local who is confident in planning elopements so you can simply be present in your adventure.

5. Embrace the Adventure - It’s Part of the Magic

One of the most beautiful things about eloping in the Highlands is the sense of adventure it brings. The whole day is all part of the experience, from the road trip and the hike to your ceremony spot, to getting lost amongst the wild landscapes and enjoying a cold dip in the loch, to warming up with a dram by the fire at the end of the day.

Embrace the weather, the unexpected, the quirks of nature and the spontaneity that comes with an elopement in the Scottish Highlands. Be prepared with layers, changes of clothes and snacks, and be ready to embrace the elements. The beauty of the Scottish Highlands is that they’re always changing, so your elopement really is unique to you. There are no rights and wrongs when it comes to eloping, so let your heart wander and plan the adventure you’ve been dreaming of.

Your elopement in the Scottish Highlands will be the most magical, romantic, and unforgettable experience of your lives. By considering your location, season and suppliers, as well as embracing what this gorgeous country has in store for you, you can celebrate your marriage in a way that’s true to you. If you’re ready to start planning your elopement, I would love to hear from you. Get in touch for helpful tips, advice, support and to make your vision a reality.

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