Let’s be honest: 2024 summer was a few days of the year. According to the MET office, the jet stream was sitting above the UK and not to the north. This means that the jet stream brought in just rain, rain, and not the Sahara’s heat. So, what do you do if it rains on your big day?
Scotland is an enchanting destination for weddings, drawing couples from around the world with its dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, and rich history. But one thing about getting married in Scotland may give some couples pause: the weather. Scotland is known for its unpredictable and often wet climate, where a sunny morning can swiftly turn into a rain-soaked afternoon. Yet, this shouldn’t be a deterrent. The changeable weather is part of Scotland’s charm; even a rainy day can make your wedding unforgettable.
Here’s why you can still have a magical wedding in Scotland, even if the skies aren’t blue.
- The Landscape Comes Alive in the Rain
Scotland’s rugged landscape has a wild beauty that is breathtaking in any weather. Mist clinging to the mountains, clouds hanging low over the lochs, and the lush greenery that thrives in Scotland’s frequent showers can create an atmosphere straight out of a fairytale. The Highlands, with their dramatic peaks, look even more ethereal when shrouded in mist, and castles nestled by the shore of a stormy sea evoke a sense of timeless romance.
If you’re a fan of photography, cloudy skies and soft rain often make for the most stunning wedding photos. The diffused light on an overcast day eliminates harsh shadows, while mist and drizzle add a dramatic, moody effect that amplifies the beauty of Scotland’s natural backdrop.
- Cozy Venues for Rainy Days
Scotland offers a plethora of incredible indoor wedding venues that perfectly complement the rustic charm of the outdoors. Historic castles like Eilean Donan, Dalhousie, or Edinburgh Castle provide intimate settings where you can exchange vows while sheltered from the elements, surrounded by centuries of history. These venues have large windows that frame the outdoors, connecting you to the Scottish landscape while remaining warm and dry.
For something more modern, converted barns, distilleries, or chic city venues in Edinburgh or Glasgow offer a contemporary vibe with Scottish character. Regardless of the weather, the ambience of these venues creates a cosy and intimate experience, with roaring fires, candlelight, and traditional Scottish decor adding to the charm.
- Embrace the Weather: It’s Part of the Experience
A rainy wedding in Scotland is not a disaster — it’s an opportunity to embrace the whimsical side of your day. Guests can don stylish umbrellas, and you can opt for beautiful rainproof accessories like a delicate lace shawl or a woollen tartan blanket to keep warm. Quaint, colourful umbrellas add character to your wedding photos, and an impromptu dance in the rain with your new spouse can become a cherished memory.
Scotland’s weather also invites you to embrace traditional elements that bring warmth and cheer. Consider offering guests a dram of whisky upon arrival to ward off the chill, or host a ceilidh (a traditional Scottish dance) to get everyone on their feet and warm up after the ceremony. The unpredictable weather adds spontaneity and makes the day even more memorable.
- Flexibility with Outdoor and Indoor Options
Many venues in Scotland are well-equipped for outdoor and indoor ceremonies, allowing you to switch plans if the weather takes a turn. Gardens, castle courtyards, or cliffside vistas offer breathtaking spaces for outdoor vows, while grand ballrooms or intimate dining halls are ready to welcome your party if the rain sets in.
Professional Scottish wedding planners are used to dealing with unpredictable weather and always have a Plan B to ensure your day runs smoothly, rain or shine. This flexibility means you can start the day with your heart set on an outdoor ceremony but still have peace of mind that an elegant indoor option awaits if necessary.
- The Mythical and Romantic Atmosphere of Scotland
Scotland’s weather often creates a sense of mysticism and romance that can’t be replicated in a sunny, tropical destination. There’s a reason why stories of ancient clans, mysterious lochs, and dramatic love stories are woven into Scotland’s cultural fabric. When the weather is moody, it feels like you’re stepping into one of these legendary tales, with your wedding becoming part of Scotland’s storied landscape.
Mist floating over the water or a gentle drizzle on an ancient castle stone doesn’t detract from the romance — it adds to it. You and your guests are drawn closer together, warmed by the sense of occasion, the beauty of the surroundings, and the enduring love you’re there to celebrate.
The Perfect Wedding, No Matter the Weather
While Scotland may not offer the sun-soaked guarantee of tropical beach destinations, it more than makes up for it with its stunning landscapes, historic charm, and intimate venues. The weather, far from being a drawback, can enhance your wedding day’s magic. Embracing Scotland’s ever-changing climate is part of what makes getting married there so special.
So, don’t worry about the rain. Let it be part of your story — a Scottish wedding is about love, laughter, and the breathtaking beauty of one of the most romantic places on Earth, rain or shine.