Including Scottish Customs and Traditions in Your Wedding 

One of the distinguishing features of your modern wedding in the Scottish tradition will be the particular mix of customs you choose to incorporate.

Wearing of Tartan

The iconic symbol of Scottish culture is wearing of tartan.

Piping in the Bride

In Scottish weddings bride and groom were always treated equally, so the bride was not given away by her father as was the custom in England. This allows for a number of  wonderful precursors to the wedding and a very different form of processional, which fits all couples perfectly, regardless of whether you are two brides, two grooms, or a bride and a groom.  Also great for double weddings (a great idea for thrifty couples, twice the fun and huge savings on the reception and other costs).
More about music in your Scottish Wedding

The Oathing Stone

Taken from the ancient custom of setting an oath in stone, including an oathing stone in the vows can be deeply moving.

Handfasting Scottish Style

Contrary to popular belief, the term 'handfasting' signifies a handshake,
and the use of the cord is a modern re-interpretion. Centuries ago it was sufficient for a couple to join hands in the presence of witnesses and declare their commitment to one another, for their marriage to be recognised. The church didn't like it, but had to recognise it. Nonetheless incorporating this feature into the ritual is visually moving, particularly when the hands are bound by The Ban' (generally tartan ribbon or a length of woollen tartan fabric).

Sharing the Quaich

A loving cup ceremony using the quaich, the traditional Scottish two handled shallow communal drinking vessel, adds a special touch to the ceremony. I have a beautiful quaich that is available for use in your ceremony. What you choose to fill it with is up to you. Traditionally, it would be whisky. And for my money you can't beat a good single malt. But Scotland is also producing the most wonderful botanical gins. And, if you choose to go non-alcoholic, there really is only one choice!

Sashing of the Bride and Presentation to the Groom

The sashing of the bride is the moment when the bride is welcomed into the groom’s family and clan.  The presentation of the bride's family sword to the groom is likewise is a very special moment. This is when the groom is welcomed into his wife's family and charged with the responsibility of defending her and her honour. These customs can be adapted for same sex couples.

The Bride photgraphed with all the kilted men

Don't forget the Thistle

There are many ways to incorporate the floral symbol of Scotland into your wedding. You can add a Scottish touch to common wedding rituals that are not necessarily Scottish, such as the Warming of the Rings, by incorporating the thistle. You can also incorporate the thistle in bouquets, boutonnieres, and on the linen on the signing table. I have several vintage/antique hand-embroidered cloths which I'm happy to lend you for the ceremony.

More information on marrying in the Scottish Tradition

• Scottish Handfasting
• Bagpipe Wedding Music
  
• Weapons in Weddings in Queensland
  
• Fees and Packages
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