Planning a Micro Wedding in Scotland
Micro weddings have become an increasingly popular choice for couples across the UK, especially in Scotland. Whether you’re drawn to a smaller celebration for its intimacy or looking for something more relaxed than a traditional wedding, a micro wedding offers the chance to focus on what truly matters.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from understanding what a micro wedding is, to choosing the perfect Scottish location, planning the details, and adding your own personal touch.
What is a Micro Wedding?
A micro wedding is simply a smaller celebration, usually with 10 to 50 guests. It still includes the key moments of a traditional wedding - like the ceremony, meal, speeches and dancing - but on a more intimate scale.
It’s ideal for couples who want to celebrate with their nearest and dearest, without the pressure of a large crowd. With fewer people comes more time to enjoy the day, less stress, and often a more budget-friendly experience that doesn’t sacrifice quality or atmosphere.
Why Scotland is a Wonderful Choice for a Micro Wedding
Scotland is one of the most flexible and romantic places to get married in the UK. Couples can legally marry almost anywhere outdoors, which opens up a world of location possibilities. From dramatic glens to peaceful lochside venues and vibrant city settings, Scotland offers backdrops that are both breathtaking and deeply personal.
What’s more, many venues and suppliers here specialise in elopements and smaller celebrations. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet winter wedding or a relaxed summer weekday gathering, Scotland offers endless options to make it all feel effortless.
Choosing Between Glasgow and Edinburgh
Glasgow City Centre
Glasgow has a rich industrial past and is now known for its creative energy, music scene and striking mix of Victorian architecture and modern design. It’s a city with heart; welcoming, bold, and perfect for couples who want a laid-back atmosphere with a bit of edge.
The West End is particularly popular, with beautiful parks like Kelvingrove and the Botanic Gardens, and plenty of charming venues tucked among cobbled lanes. Places like Montrose Street and the City Chambers make iconic ceremony spots, especially for those after a mix of urban and traditional.
Edinburgh City Centre
Edinburgh brings historical romance to the table. With its cobbled streets, castle views and stunning Old and New Town architecture, it offers an unforgettable backdrop. Think Georgian townhouses, historic courtyards, and winding lanes like Circus Lane and Dean Village, dreamy locations for photos and moments you’ll remember forever.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you love creative spaces and a modern feel, Glasgow might be the one. For timeless elegance and that classic postcard charm, Edinburgh is hard to beat. Both cities offer unique experiences for couples who want their wedding day to be more than just tradition—it should feel like them.
10 Beautiful Micro Wedding Venues in Scotland
There’s no shortage of beautiful venues for intimate weddings across the country. Here are ten to explore, with five located near Glasgow.
In or Near Glasgow
Venachar Lochside
A serene lochside venue perfect for winter weddings or midweek events. Their elopement package includes a ceremony, drinks reception, three-course meal and evening buffet.
House for an Art Lover
Set in Bellahouston Park, this venue combines artistic flair with natural surroundings.
Cottiers Theatre
A converted church full of character in the West End, with fairy-lit spaces and a relaxed feel.
The Engine Works
Industrial, contemporary and striking—ideal for creative couples wanting something a little different.
University of Glasgow Chapel
Historic and grand, with a quiet dignity and unforgettable architecture.
Across Scotland
Edinburgh City Chambers
Classic and central, right in the heart of the capital’s Old Town.
Glencoe
Unreal Highland landscapes for those dreaming of an outdoor ceremony surrounded by nature.
Isle of Skye
Perfect for adventurous elopements, with rugged coastlines and mystical views.
The Hermitage
A woodland paradise near waterfalls in Perthshire, peaceful and poetic.
Eilean Donan Castle
Iconic and deeply romantic, with sweeping views and stone-built history all around.
The Joy of a Micro Wedding
A micro wedding gives you the space to create something meaningful without compromise. It’s not about what you leave out—it’s about what you include.
You get to truly connect with each guest, enjoy the moment fully, and create a day that reflects who you are. The smaller guest list allows for more flexibility and focus. Whether that means splurging on a special meal, booking your dream venue, or spending extra on photography and flowers, you’re in control.
Your Planning Guide
Choose Your Date
Think about the time of year that fits your vision. Micro weddings can often be planned more quickly than larger ones, and weekday dates usually come with more availability and better value.
Find Your Team
After securing your venue, look for the right suppliers:
A celebrant or registrar to guide your ceremony
A florist who understands your style
Hair and makeup artists who help you feel your best
And of course, a photographer who knows how to capture it all naturally
If you’re hosting outdoors or in a non-traditional space, you may also need to consider rentals for chairs, tables or cover in case of rain.
Making It Yours
The best thing about a micro wedding is that it’s yours to shape. You can follow the traditions that matter to you, and skip the ones that don’t.
Want to wear something non-traditional? Do it. Prefer a cheese tower over a cake? Go for it. You can even switch up the timeline and have your first dance outdoors, or toast with cocktails at sunrise. It’s your day, build it around your story.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Photography
Why is photography so important, especially for a small wedding?
With fewer people and less distraction, the focus is truly on the couple and their closest connections. Great photography captures not just how the day looked, but how it felt - the joy, the emotion, the stillness and the laughter.
Do I need full-day coverage?
Not always. Many photographers now offer shorter packages for micro weddings, covering just the ceremony and portraits or a few key hours.
What style of photography works best?
Most couples love a natural, documentary approach - nothing too posed, just real moments beautifully captured. This style works especially well for smaller, intimate settings.
Should I book video too?
If it fits your budget, a short highlight film or even a clip of the ceremony is a lovely keepsake. I love to shoot cinematic video, I feel I am a very 50/50 hybrid shooter, I actually enjoy the photography side more however everything is short form video now that I have spent a lot of time doing it.
FAQs About Alexander-Thomas.co.uk
Who is Alexander Thomas?
Alexander is a Scottish photographer with a relaxed, story-led approach. I specialises in elopements, micro weddings and small celebrations across Scotland.
Where do you work?
Based near Glasgow, I travel across Scotland - from the cities to the Highlands, islands and beyond.
Do you offer packages for micro weddings?
Yes. Flexible, custom packages are available for anything from a one-hour shoot to full-day coverage. Everything is tailored to suit your day and your needs.
How can I book?
Just head to www.alexander-thomas.co.uk and use the contact form to share a few details. You’ll get a warm, helpful reply with availability and next steps.
Final Thoughts
Planning a micro wedding in Scotland is about creating something beautiful, personal, and entirely your own. With fewer guests and more intention, you’ll find more time to enjoy the moment and make memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you're saying your vows by a loch or beneath the city skyline, there’s no better place to start your story together.
If you’re looking for a photographer who’ll capture your day with honesty and heart, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s start the conversation →
