Venues News

Since the Marriage (Scotland) Act of 2005, bridal couples can have not only their reception but the marriage ceremony almost anywhere they like. Nowadays, the Grampian area is bursting with wedding venues and the world is your oyster!

You could get married in your own home – a real option if you have a large house and/or garden – on the beach, even on your favourite mountain or Munro. The important thing to do is check in plenty of time - that the location is either already licensed for weddings, or that it is possible to obtain a licence. If you choose an unusual venue like this, you will have to do quite a lot of leg-work yourself organising the various elements for the day.

Aberdeen itself has plenty venue options. For some historical grace, you could choose Elphinstone Hall, deep in Old Aberdeen, with its wood panelling and vaulted heraldic ceiling. If you’d prefer a country setting, then you will be truly spoilt for choice. The Grampian area is well-known as Castle Country, but there are also country lodges and houses. The National Trust has nine properties, including five castles, available for weddings throughout the summer. As time goes on, more and more privately-owned castles are opening up as wedding venues. Drumtochty Castle near Auchenblae hosts weddings on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and can be booked in its entirety. The castle itself can sleep up to twenty-two, and an additional thirty-eight guests can be accommodated in style within the estate. Drumtochty was a winner in the VOWS (Voted Outstanding Wedding Supplier) Awards in 2006. These splendid locations all come complete with