Guide to Elopements in Glencoe
Glencoe has become one of the most popular places in Scotland for elopements, and it is easy to see why. With cascading waterfalls, deep glens, and shimmering mountain tops, many incredible spots have become well-known, and plenty of locations are waiting to be discovered.
The wedding business is vast and increasingly expensive. Due to the cost of venues, food, bar tabs, and all the other expenses associated with a big wedding, elopements are becoming increasingly popular. More people than ever are saying their ‘I do’s’ in private or intimate ceremonies, with romantic backdrops and stories to match.
What's important here is that you are marrying the person you love. Plan your perfect day simply, with no pressure or expectations. Take a deep breath and enjoy the process.
Choosing Your Date
When choosing your wedding date, it’s essential to consider what that means for your ceremony. While eloping does mean that you do not have to worry about the increased price of high summer seasons, consider the weather implications of your date - especially when eloping in the Scottish highlands.
Elopements don't always have to be outside; plenty of wonderful ceremonies are held indoors. However, if you are looking to come to Glencoe to be surrounded by beautiful scenery during your ceremony, it is important to keep the weather in mind. If you choose to get married in the great outdoors of Glencoe, whether on top of a mountain or at the bottom of a glen, make sure you have the proper shoes to get you there safely.
While wintertime can supply you with beautiful snow-capped backdrops, make sure you bring a warm jacket. If you’re planning summer, come prepared with midge spray and plenty of water. No matter the season, Glencoe's views never disappoint.
Legal Requirements
One of the most common questions people ask when eloping is, "Is it legal?" The answer is yes, however, to ensure this, finding a verified celebrant and following the legal steps is vital. Your celebrant will work with you to ensure that you provide the necessary documents on time and will also be present to witness your marriage on your paperwork.
The steps are simple:
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Complete the Marriage Notice Form (M10 form) and the Celebrant and Witness Form.
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Submit the M10 Form & Celebrant and Witness details form to the local registrar by 29 days before your wedding with proof of ID’s and address (for elopements in Glencoe, send this to the Registry in Fort William). They will then create your ‘Wedding Schedule’ - the document to be signed during your ceremony.
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Collect your Marriage Schedule from the registrar up to seven days before your wedding ceremony.
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Say I DO! Have your ceremony wherever, however, you want, and sign the Marriage Schedule with your partner, at least two witnesses, and the celebrant during your ceremony.
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Return the Marriage Schedule to the local registrar within three days of your ceremony, and that’s it! Congratulations, you are now legally married!
*If you are from outside the UK, please check with your local wedding register offices and ensure you have proper documentation and visas.
Ceremony Locations in Glencoe
After you have organised your legal requirements, now its time for the fun part! Let’s choose where to have your ceremony based on your vision. Location is everything when it comes to envisioning your special day. From majestic mountain tops to cascading waterfalls, pick a spot and make your most loving memory stand exactly where and when you want.
- For the adventurers looking for mystical backdrops and incredible sights - See Glencoe Waterfalls & How To Find Them or The Best Glencoe Walks - Highlands Walking & Hikes
- For those who want to be their photographer's muse - See Glencoe: A Photographers Paradise.
- Explore more on our Local Guide.
Local Suppliers
One of the benefits of eloping is having to plan less pomp and circumstance than a traditional wedding. You might want to take some aspects from the wedding world into your elopement, such as photographers to capture this incredible moment or flowers to enhance your ceremony. Here is a list of some local suppliers to consider for your Glencoe Elopment.
Celebrants
Photography/Videography
Flowers
Hair & Makeup
Cake
Find Accomodation
Find a place to continue your romantic escape. With the ideal location and quaint setting, The Glencoe Inn is the perfect place to rest your head after a day of adventure and romance. With access to the Hidden Garden Spa, enjoy unlimited access to an oak barrel sauna, water plunge, and outdoor hot tub with views of Loch Leven.
Even better, bring your closest loved ones straight from the ceremony to all stay at our self-catering cottage, Island View House. This accommodation sleeps up to 10 people, with a private hot tub and all the inn's amenities.
If you are from a different area, use this time to explore. Stay longer and indulge in Glencoe's adventurous surroundings.
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