Let our Senior Events Coordinator Hope share why Riddle’s Court is a perfect venue for your big day and what makes the building so special
Iona Shepard Photography
What is your role at Scottish Historic Buildings Trust?
I am the senior event co-ordinator at Scottish Historic Buildings Trust. I am responsible for the sales, planning and coordination of the range of events we host at the historic Riddle’s Court. I have been at the Trust for a year and I have really enjoyed the opportunity not only to grow my own professional development but also contribute to the conservation of historic and iconic buildings across Scotland.
How many weddings do you look after per year?
As a team, we look after around 40 – 50 weddings per year, but personally I will typically look after around 20 weddings, this is from initial enquiry right through to co-ordinating on the big day but the exciting thing about working at Riddle’s Court is that we are a small team meaning I even get to see and help out at the weddings that have be planned by the other team members.
Photo: Anna Urban Photography
What does a typical wedding look like at RC?
The honest answer is we don’t have a ‘typical wedding’, each wedding that happens at Riddle’s Court is tailored to what the couple wants. We try our best to ensure the wedding we hold are as individualised and unique as possible. We have had small intimate elopements were the team members get to be witnesses but we have also have larger scale 80 person full day weddings and everything in between.
What do you think sets Riddle’s Court apart from the competition?
First thing that comes to mind is its location. We are right in the heart of the old town surrounded by other iconic buildings which is ideal for anyone with family coming from abroad as they get to see the best of Edinburgh particularly from the Geddes room which has an extraordinary view that extends all the way to the Pentland hills.
Photo: Bernadeta Kuprec
What can couples expect from you in the run up to the day?
As event coordinator I will work with each couple to help build a schedule for the day that works for them but also one that works well with the building. I also contact any suppliers they have booked to coordinate access and deliveries so that couples don’t have to worry themselves about the logistics of the day. Most importantly, I am available to answer last minute or panicked questions and to help ensure that couples feel supported through what can be a stressful few months of planning.
Photo: Jennifer Glen Photography
Any words of advice for couples looking to get married at RC?
My advice would be to have a think about what is important to you for the day. Before being influenced by friends and family have a discussion about the things that are really important to you whether that’s particular photos, a signature drink or a type of music you want. And most importantly – tell your event coordinator that way we can ensure you get want out of the day.
Photo: Anna Urban
Your favourite feature in the building?
There are so many gorgeous spots in the building but I think the pentice stairwell is my favourite. It such an iconic feature of Riddle’s Court and I always encourage our wedding couples to get a least one photo on the stairs because it has a real ‘Romeo and Juliet’ feel to it.
Photo: Lou Rob Photo
What has been one of your favourite styles of wedding?
I love the elopements! Big wedding can be really fun and it’s great to see how people design their larger weddings but there is something so special about being a part of an elopement. It feels like such a privilege to be involved in such an intimate small ceremony. It’s also great to see couples have the wedding day that they want without any of the stress that comes with planning a big wedding.
Get in touch
We would love to help you on your planning journey, whatever that looks like, and are always happy to offer tips and advice – get in touch with our team today for more information.
Riddle’s Court is opening its doors to showcase the 500 year old building as the perfect home for your intimate and unique wedding.
Image: Moa Reynolds
Saturday 1st March 2025
Riddle’s Court is a historic and unique venue found in the heart of the old town just off the Royal Mile. It has been home to over 150 weddings ranging from intimate elopement ceremonies to full day celebrations. It is a hidden gem steeped in history – including an original 16th century painted ceiling in our on-site accommodation.
You will get the opportunity to meet some of our favourite suppliers from photographers to florists to kiltmakers – find everything you need for your big day under one roof!
We have also partnered with family-run Pinkerton’s Catering who will be severing delicious canapés, a selection of sweet treats and some of their signature drinks.
Just pick a timeslot between 12pm – 4pm the 1st March 2025 and come along and see what your wedding day could look like (with a glass of fizz in hand!).
Image: Lightbrush Weddings
FAQs
How much does it cost to attend? It’s free to attend, you just need to book at time slot.
Can I bring someone with me? You are more than welcome to attend in groups but please note one ticket will admit one person.
Is the venue accessible? Yes. We have a lift and an accessible bathroom.
Can I bring my dog? Yes! We are a dog friendly venue and love whenever they visit the venue.
How long can I stay for? We are booking in slots on the hour to manage visitors, but you can stay for as long as possible. This gives you plenty of time to see the whole venue and chat with each of our amazing suppliers.
Meet the suppliers
Kate Godfrey
Photographer
Wildling Weddings
Elopement photographer
Pinkertons
Caterer
Ochre
Florist
Da hooley
Ceilidh band
Lynsay Borthwick
Table scaping/design
Auld Alliance Kiltmakers
Kiltmakers
Thea
Pianist
Sav socials
Content Creator
Ana Guajardo
Live wedding painter
Image: Rosie Sco Photography
Remember to book your spot! It is free to attend, but please book your spot on Eventbrite to secure your spot!
For more information on Riddle’s Court, email our weddings team at weddings@shbt.org.uk or for more inspiration on weddings at Riddle’s Court visit our Instagram page
We would love to help you on your planning journey, whatever that looks like, and are always happy to offer tips and advice – get in touch with our team today for more information
Can I have my dog at my wedding? The short answer is yes – having your dog at your wedding is completely possible. However, there are a few things to check and consider before you make the decision to have a pet-friendly wedding.
Image: Lightbrush Weddings
Can You Have a Dog at a Wedding?
The short answer is yes – having your dog at your wedding is completely possible. However, there are a few things to check and consider before you make the decision to have a pet-friendly wedding.
Dogs are family right? And for some it would be important for their four legged friend to be part of the biggest day of their lives. According to a recent survey by yappy.com over a quarter of couples are planning to include their beloved furry friends in their big day.
Things You Need to Consider
Check With Your Venue
Before anything else, you need to check with your wedding venue that they allow dogs on the premises. If having your dog at your wedding is completely non-negotiable, this is something you should check with venues before you book and get tied into any contracts.
At Riddle’s Court we are a pet friendly wedding venue and do welcome your four-legged friends. Your dogs can be part of the ceremony and celebrations but unfortunately due to allergies are not allowed to stay overnight in our on-site Kings Chamber.
We do work with some of the best pet sitters, who will pick up your pooch and return them fed and walked the following day.
Image: Lightbrush Weddings
Allocate a Dedicated Dog-Sitter
When dogs are included in weddings, it’s likely that their main role will be during the ceremony either as a ring bearer or walking the couple down the aisle – it makes for gorgeous wedding pictures!
To keep your pup amused for the in-between parts of the wedding, consider allocating a guest to care for the dog. Someone your pet knows and trusts and is also happy to take them out for a walk during the day.
Remember The Walks
The structure of a wedding day doesn’t always allow for the dogs normal routine, so you need to ensure someone is on hand to keep the day as normal for the dog as possible.
You could consider hiring a dog walker to collect the dog for a good run about to let off some steam. We have several green spaces around the building suitable for this.
Image: Lightbrush Weddings
Think About Logistics
Whatever your plan is for your pet for the day, make sure you organise the logistics. Who is picking up and dropping off your pet? Who is walking the dog? Do they have everything they need? Does everyone know the timings?
Pack up their favourite things
Dogs need to be entertained and most won’t want to just mooch around a reception for hours on end. Pack your dog’s favourite toys, snacks and a cosy blanket or dog bed to ensure your four-legged friend is entertained and comfortable at all times.
For more information on Riddle’s Court, email our weddings team at weddings@shbt.org.uk or for more inspiration on weddings at Riddle’s Court visit our Instagram page
We would love to help you on your planning journey, whatever that looks like, and are always happy to offer tips and advice – get in touch with our team today for more information.
It’s time to start thinking about booking your wedding cake but you don’t have a clue where to start. You will find all the answers to the most commonly asked questions in this handy little guide.
How much does a wedding cake cost?
How long is a piece of string? Unfortunately, there is no straightforward answer to this, as the cost of a wedding cake can vary depending on a number of things, such as the wedding date, guest numbers, overall complexity of design, and venue location.
Every cake designer charges differently depending on their level of experience, ingredients used, overheads and geographical location. As an example, a simple naked cake will be significantly cheaper than a fondant iced cake covered in sugar flowers. Depending on all these factors a 3 tier cake could range anywhere from £300 – £1000 or more.
At your initial enquiry, and based on your wedding details, you will be quoted an estimated price range, which then gives you a good idea what your cake will cost. It’s also important to mention if you have a specific budget you would like to keep to as your cake designer can work to this.
How big should our wedding cake be?
First thing to consider is when your cake will be served. If you are planning to serve your wedding cake as dessert then you will need to cater to 100% of your guests. If you are incorporating your wedding cake into the evening buffet then I would usually advise catering to around 70-80% of your total guest numbers.
For around 100 guests it would be recommend to order a 3 tier cake and a 4 tier cake for 160. Another option to consider is having a smaller cake plus dessert table. These are a great option to treat your guests during your evening wedding reception plus they can be tailored to your colour scheme or theme.
Your cake maker will be able to advise on the most appropriate size for your wedding based on your requirements and guest numbers.
Cherry Blossom Designer Cakes
Can I have a wedding cake tasting?
Every cake maker should offer a cake tasting. They can be done in person or by collecting a box of cake samples. If you have already saved your date with a cake maker, then a complimentary tasting box would likely be included.
Can I have different flavours on each tier?
Absolutely yes! We recommend choosing a wide variety of flavours that you and your guests will enjoy. A lot of couples choose to keep the top tier just for the themselves, saving that for the day after the wedding to enjoy.
How far in advance should I order my wedding cake?
As soon as you have booked your venue, it’s time to start booking your preferred suppliers. To avoid disappointment, I always advise allowing 12-18 months.
A lot of cake makers only take on a limited number of bookings per week.
Peak season (April – September) is more popular and these dates will go first. There is nothing worse than finding your dream supplier has no availability for your wedding date, so make sure you secure your date early.
How long does it take to make a wedding cake?
Your wedding cake is a minimum 5 day process – baking, filling & ganaching, covering, decorating and delivering. If your cake has a complicated design involving many sugar flowers this work would involve additional time which would be started weeks, sometimes even months, in advance.
Can I have flowers on my wedding cake?
Yes, absolutely you can! There are lots of options to choose from, whether you opt for sugar flowers, artificial, fresh or dried, there are options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Dried flowers are becoming increasingly popular for that rustic or boho look. If using fresh flowers, it’s important to make sure these are made food safe for your cake. This is why it’s usually better for your cake maker to arrange the flowers compared to a florist as we are all trained in food safety and can follow the correct protocols. It’s also important to use suitable fresh flowers which are not toxic or poisonous.
Making realistic sugar flowers are more expensive than the other flower options as they are all handmade. However, the possibilities are endless. Is your favourite flower a peony, but they aren’t in season for your wedding? You can have them made in sugar, whatever colour you like! Or maybe you love an iris, but they are poisonous, that’s no problem in sugar! Sugar flowers are food safe and will last a lifetime if stored correctly.
Every cake maker has their own preference and skill level, so important to check what options they can provide.
We would love to help you on your planning journey, whatever that looks like, and are always happy to offer tips and advice – get in touch with our team today for more information.
If you’re planning a 2024 wedding, you may be beginning to think about your music selections and which genres would be best suited to your celebration. In this guide, we round up a few trending styles of music that make for the ultimate soundtrack to your special day.
Claire Juliet Paton Photography
Music can really set the scene for your wedding day, and has the potential to influence the atmosphere and the mood for each part of your celebration. When it comes time to take to the dance floor during the evening reception, most newlyweds want to sing along to a seamless blend of timeless tracks and on-trend tunes.
If you’re planning a 2024 wedding, you may be beginning to think about your music selections and which genres would be best suited to your celebration. In this guide, we round up a few trending styles of music that make for the ultimate soundtrack to your special day.
Folk
If you’re hoping to stay true to tradition on your wedding day, folk music may be the perfect pick. Generally, folk music is considered to be music that has been passed down from generation to generation. It’s the music of small social circles that represents your roots and cultural heritage, and tends to have a mystical charm, with soothing sounds that bring people together. It’s a brilliant genre for celebrating such a poignant moment as the day you get married.
Bagpipe music is a popular choice for those who like folk music, and want their wedding celebrations to be in keeping with Scottish traditions. By incorporating a unique procession of bagpipe musicians into your big day, you’re sure to wow your guests.
Natalie Holt Photography
Classical
When it comes to wedding music, you need to plan for more than just your reception. In fact, there are plenty of moments throughout your day that will benefit from a little romantic background music.
While anything goes as you head into your evening party, the same isn’t quite as true for the earlier parts of your day. When it comes to greeting your guests, hosting your cocktail hour, and walking down the aisle, you’re going to want music that promotes a sense of calm, but still feels moving and timeless. For these more intimate moments, the classical genre is perfect, providing a subtle soundtrack that’s romantic, elegant and versatile.
Rock ‘n’ roll
As you head into your reception, you’re going to want to hear the kind of music that makes you really feel alive and ready to party. To get every one of your guests up and dancing, rock music is an ideal choice. It’s a genre that will appeal to most people, as it can be kept as classic or contemporary as you wish. Plus, it’s easy to find a great band to perform your rock music, as the genre is easy to cover and sounds great performed acoustically, too. For a sound as rugged, wild, and even romantic as Scotland is itself, consider rock and roll for your wedding playlist.
Keep it authentic
You don’t want to base your choice of wedding songs purely on what’s fashionable and trending in the moment. While it’s true that you want your wedding guests to have fun, this is your wedding – so you shouldn’t have to sacrifice the music that you love in order to please the crowd.
The best part about choosing your wedding music is that there’s a space for every genre. Perhaps you want classical for your ceremony, rock, hip-hop and R’n’B for your reception party, and some lowkey folk music to serenade you as the night draws to a close. Experiment with your vision, and don’t be afraid to combine your tastes in order to curate the perfect trending wedding day playlist.
Get in touch
We would love to help you on your planning journey, whatever that looks like, and are always happy to offer tips and advice – get in touch with our team today for more information.
Let our Events Manager Taylah share why Riddle’s Court is a perfect venue for your big day and what makes the building so special
Oksana Kuklina Photography
Can you give us a bit of back-ground to your unusual venue?
Riddle’s Court is at the top of the Royal Mile, close to Edinburgh Castle and can trace its history back to 1590. It recently underwent an extensive two-year multi-million-pound restoration project, which was carried our by Scottish Historic Buildings Trust.
It re-opened in 2017 it was stunningly modernised, yet still reflecting the past. It’s a remarkable space for a couple to marry – and become part of four centuries of history. The wedding team here, look after about 30-40 weddings a year, but our popularity is growing. We can host 60-70 daytime guests with scope for more to attend in the evening.
What makes Riddle’s Court such a great place to be married?
It is a romantic, historic jewel, hidden away in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It feels personable, intimate and charming and is full of period drama – beautiful 16th-century painted ceilings, for example, in the elegant rooms.
One of the most special things about us is that when you book your wedding here, all the profit goes back into our charitable mission of restoring and renovating historically significant buildings across the country, saving them for future generations. Who wouldn’t want to be part of that?
Danielle Watt Film & Photo
What is your favourite thing about the building?
It’s hard to choose. Possibly the breathtaking views from the Geddes Room out to the Edinburgh skyline and beyond to the Pentland Hills. But I also love the 16th-century bread oven which we believe was used to cook a banquet for King James VI here in 1598. It was uncovered during the restoration project when an accessible bathroom was being created and has to be seen to be believed.
If you were to get married at Riddle’s Court, how would you go about it?
I would plan a romantic, tight-knit celebration so that I would be able to interact with everyone who had been invited, and I would stay the night. We’ve recently created two new elopement packages, one of which includes a two-night stay in the King’s Chamber, our beautiful on-site apartment. It has a large bedroom, where you can sleep under a spectacular 16th-century painted ceiling, plus an open-plan kitchen/dining/lounge area with a double sofa bed and a contemporary shower room.
Tell us about the function rooms
You could have an intimate elopement ceremony in the Seton Room, which boasts splendid plasterwork and photogenic bay-window booths. Prefer a grand celebration? Our Library is a spacious, airy and south facing and is suitable for an elegant wedding breakfast for up to 60 guests. It works well for a ceilidh or dancing in the evening.
The stunning painted ceiling of the Geddes Room depicts messages of ecology, philosophy and education and has stylish panelled walls.
Whichever rooms you choose, we will be working behind the scenes to ensure all runs smoothly. We will follow a detailed timetable, but are prepared for anything.
Get in touch
We would love to help you on your planning journey, whatever that looks like, and are always happy to offer tips and advice – get in touch with our team today for more information.
Micro weddings, intimate weddings, elopements! Call them what you want, these wee weddings are here to stay
Natalia Swiader Photograpy
Since the pandemic we have seen an increase in the number of our couples looking for something a little different for their big day and choosing to move away from huge guest numbers, the stress of chasing suppliers and worrying about seating plans. Micro weddings, small weddings, intimate weddings, call them what you want, these wee weddings are here to stay.
So, what is a Micro-Wedding?
To us a micro-wedding is a smaller intimate wedding of up to 20 guests. While a micro wedding is smaller in terms of guest size, that doesn’t mean the celebration has to be any less spectacular. A micro wedding is a unique celebration that combines the traditions of a full-blown wedding ceremony with a minimalist mentality. It’s intimate, beautiful, and often (but not always) budget-friendly. Couples can still enjoy the ceremony of a traditional wedding, but do it their way. Less guests mean you can spend your budget on things that are important to you to give your guests a magical experience.
Where can we have our micro wedding?
This is the best bit, absolutely anywhere. With reduced numbers of guests this allows the couple to explore more unique venues, from historic buildings, galleries, castles, stables, let’s be honest the list is endless. All you need to get married in Scotland is a celebrant and a couple of witnesses.
At Riddle’s Court, here in Edinburgh we have seen an increase in micro-weddings, especially midweek, when the venue is a bit cheaper. The historic rooms are perfect for ceremonies, receptions, wedding breakfasts or dancing. Riddle’s Court is a unique Historic gem in the heart of the Capital’s Royal Mile and an ideal setting for a memorable wedding. With beautiful 16th century painted ceilings, elegant rooms and romantic courtyards, it is personal, intimate, charming and full of period detail.
Natalia Swiader Photograpy
What are the pros of having a micro wedding?
It’s budget friendly (well sometimes). Having a micro-wedding is one of the easiest ways to save some money because you can go as big or small as you want, you have total control of all of the details. Saving money on the guest list means that you have more freedom to splurge on flowers, catering or the wedding photographer of your dreams.
It’s intimate! Having micro wedding allows for you to celebrate with your closest friends and family. It’s a romantic, tight-knit ceremony and celebration that will allow you to interact with everyone you’ve invited.
Easier to plan! When organising a wedding for 30 versus 150 you can remove the stress and enjoy the build up to your special day. You have more options for the venue, you don’t have to worry about seating plans and too many dietary requirements.
Get personal
Micro weddings are easy to personalise, and couples have free reign to transform the décor, be flexible with the running order and create the atmosphere they want. Bria & Thomas, one of our couples from America, held their intimate wedding in the Geddes room, dancing beneath the elaborate painted ceiling after exchanging vows. Their guests were treated to miniatures of limoncello, the finest fizz and grazing style catering. The flowers were simple yet elegant, it was a beautifully relaxed party atmosphere.
Our intimate weddings allow you and your partner time to enjoy the romantic views over Edinburgh’s Old Town of the Pentland Hills, which is perfect for signing the register or relaxing with a glass of champagne.
Get in touch
We would love to help you on your planning journey, whatever that looks like, and are always happy to offer tips and advice – get in touch with our team today for more information.
Absolutely, yes it can. It’s a huge project that can literally take years to plan and put together, let alone the money and time you’re investing in it. As suppliers, we understand what goes into it, but we don’t always see the whole thing from start to finish – there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes where we only see the details of one part.
David Ruff Photography
In reality the process can be frustrating and overwhelming, even if you do keep reminding yourself that it’s going to be an amazing day when it comes. All that wedding anxiety can really be worth it, but it’s often difficult to see that in the moment. The journey isn’t always easy, even when you remind yourself that you get to celebrate with your loved ones and marry your significant other with little to worry on the day itself.
For most couples, unless you have experience with wedding or event planning, this is the first large-scale event you’ve ever planned with vendors, a venue, catering and everything else that comes into play. Often it’s just a mess of scraping together checklists from different websites, creating spreadsheets, sending emails as well as keeping budgets and seating plans in check – which quickly becomes very paperwork heavy.
But remember, you’re really not alone. The most common search terms on Google related to wedding planning are:
Where to start wedding planning?
Is wedding planning stressful?
Can wedding planning cause anxiety?
Why is wedding planning so stressful?
How can you make wedding planning fun?
These are all genuine questions that couples are asking, and they’re in the hundreds and thousands of Google searches each month – and it breaks our heart, when it’s all going towards what should be an incredible day to mark an even more exciting journey!
Ashley-Liv Jamieson
So what we thought might be useful is to talk through some of the big worries that can come up – and a reminder that these are all completely normal to have concerns or issues about. We want to be as honest and transparent as possible. If you do have any questions, talk to your vendors – if you have a great relationship with your venue or photographer or celebrant, don’t be afraid to ask them for advice about areas they might not have a direct impact on. They will be more than happy to help or could direct you to another individual or resource for more information.
So, without further ado, let’s talk through some of these stresses.
Claire Juliet Paton
1.
One of these is planning – this is a huge event and it can be really overwhelming. We would recommend keeping one centralised plan, whether it’s a spreadsheet, a scrapbook or whatever works best for you to keep referring back to. Having things in one place can save a lot of headaches!
Be realistic about the money and time you can spend on organising a wedding – is it easier for you to plan a wedding in a month or two and just blitz through the process, or would a two year planning process where you can save money and spread out time work better? This is entirely dependent on your own workflow, personalities and budget, as well as any requirements for your guests in terms of the notice they need to attend.
Talk to your venue coordinator about your planning journey – they’ll often have resources like timelines or templates that they can share. Focus on the parts that are important to you – while there will be other details you need to think about, making sure your attention is in the right places is really valuable – don’t stress about traditions you don’t care about, and make the day important for you as a couple.
Harper Scott Photography
Planning logistics can seem really daunting, so trust your venue to be able to contact your suppliers and get the right information to the right people. If you’re not sure about their responsibilities (e.g. if they communicate with florists or musicians directly, or if this is down to you) be sure to ask – they are there to answer your questions and have done this many, many times before!
Sometimes you can feel really out of your depth with planning and a great solution, should you have the budget, is to find a wedding planner – most are flexible in terms of the services they provide as well, from finding your venue for you and sticking with you throughout the wedding journey to just dropping in the day before and making sure things run smoothly during the wedding itself.
At the end of the day, if something small doesn’t go to plan, in a few years you’ll barely remember it – or you’ll be laughing about it instead! You’ll have so many special memories and meaningful moments, the day itself will be a blur!
Harper Scott Photo
2.
If your worry about wedding planning is financial, this is a really common concern. There’s no denying that unless you have a tiny budget you’re trying to stick to, weddings can be very expensive. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with either option!
Before you start booking suppliers and venues, make a detailed budget and stick to it. If you have any questions for things you might have missed, there are lots of support groups online for newly-engaged couples where you can ask what you might have forgotten about. Also be sure to account for some wiggle room there as well, as there will always be some surprise costs whether it be transport, gifts, or spur of the moment spending!
Check yourself before impulse buying decorations that you might not need. Focus on the things that will last and you’ll want to hold onto like a guest book with a polaroid camera rather than wedding bunting you’re going to throw out the day after the wedding. Consider buying mismatched decorations from charity shops or collecting wine/gin bottles for table centrepieces to keep big displays on a budget. You can also do DIY-decorating rather than shell out a lot of money for a florist. Pick up some flowers from the supermarket or Marks and Spencer’s, and the day before the wedding have a fun day doing some flower arranging with your wedding party!
Some tips for cutting back include getting married in the great outdoors, taking out the need for a venue. In Scotland, you can get married pretty much anywhere!
Boy Called Ben Photography
Another fix that can be a bit more difficult – but very effective – is cutting back your guest list. While not every couple wants to get married just the two of them, having a restaurant reception for 20-30 guests is a lot cheaper than a full on evening do with a private catering company. If you are cutting back on guest numbers there are lots of great ways to involve your guests who aren’t there in person, like livestreaming your ceremony or asking for advice about marriage to read during the ceremony or in your own time.
The thing to bear in mind is that even if you are worried about cutting back on your budget, these tips don’t make your wedding any less special.
SG Mark Photography
3.
If you’re stressing about how your emotions are fluctuating, take some time to figure out the cause of the problem. Is it family and friends, the planning, the finance, or your suppliers not getting back to you? There can be a lot going on and it’s tricky to pin point where to start.
Talk to your partner or your loved ones about your feelings. This might sound super corny but it’s really all about having these open conversations about how you feel. It can be difficult, but if it’s a concern about the wedding it shows you’re taking time to process a monumental decision. Often we get swept up in the planning, but it’s important to verbalise the big feelings too.
With friends and family, be totally honest if their constant questions – or even demands! – is just making the process more difficult for you. Again this can be hard, especially if your family is helping financially, but at the end of the day it is about you and your partner and being open is the only way to move forward with these issues.
If you really are struggling, then there are lots of great courses online to help talk you through these difficult conversations. Again just get in touch with your events coordinator and they’ll point you in the right direction, even if it takes a bit of research. Suppliers are there to do their job, but they also do care about your emotional and mental well-being and how you’re coping with the process. Even if it’s just a phone call and venting for a bit, they should be happy to listen and help if they can.
CIA Photography
4.
If your stress is around the partnership with your significant other, this can have a big impact on how you feel about organising the wedding as well. Stress and disagreements happen, and it’s totally normal to feel like someone isn’t pulling their weight or doesn’t understand, especially if the wedding planning is falling more on one person’s shoulders. Emotions are already running high and it’s understandable this can boil over. The key here again is to stay calm, talk through your feelings and focus on what’s most important to you as a couple – even if it takes a day or two to settle!
Remember to do the little things that help you remember why you’re getting married in the first place. Have a date night, cook for each other, or have an evening where you can turn off and watch a movie together. Get away from home, even if for a few days, and take a short break. Planning a wedding is a lot, and even if it often feels like it, it isn’t your whole life. Flourish and enjoy yourself! Everything might feel very high stakes, but it’s not going to be full-time forever.
Littles and Loves by Francesca
To finish this up, it is really important to say that if you are having significant concerns about your mental health, again this is totally normal but worth talking through. Breathing Space is a fantastic free service in Scotland for those feeling low, anxious or depressed. Visit their website www.breathingspace.scot or call their helpline on 0800 838 587 and you can have a chat with a professional. They can offer advice or direct you to the right places, or even just listen. If you do have concerns just chat it through with your loved ones or contacts, and help realign your thoughts to what matters most.
Get in touch
We would love to help you on your planning journey, whatever that looks like, and are always happy to offer tips and advice (even if you’re not booked with us!) – get in touch with our team today for more information.
Renewing your vows is one of many simple, yet meaningful ways to display your enduring commitment to your partner. A lot of couples use vow renewals as a symbol of closing a chapter in their lives. This chapter may have been particularly stressful, and they would like to start afresh. Or it could be that they want to reaffirm their love for one another as a change is about to occur in their lives.
Why have a Vow Renewal?
Vow renewals also provide couples an opportunity to have the intimacy that they may not have had at their wedding due to putting their guests before themselves. One of the biggest regrets from couples is not spending enough time celebrating with each other on their wedding day as they would have liked – a vow renewal is the perfect opportunity to celebrate your love more personally, either alone or with your closest friends and family.
Planning your vow renewal should be significantly less stressful than planning your wedding day. It shouldn’t be as nerve racking of an experience, as you’ve already gone through the commitment to each other. This is an endorsement of that love for one another. There are no expectations of what your day should be like, other than your own. It is also an opportunity to do what makes you happy, instead of worrying whether everyone else will be enjoying themselves!
The Wild Love Club
This isn’t a Re-run of Your Wedding!
How you celebrate this day is entirely up to you. Your vow renewal can be as formal or informal as you like. You may decide to have a ceremony followed by a drinks reception or a full day event with a sit-down meal. Contrary to popular belief, your vow renewal doesn’t need to be a re-run of your wedding! So pick a venue that caters well to your chosen style. You should consider how many people you would like to be in attendance; a vow renewal is a warm and intimate celebration.
Many choose to renew their vows on the anniversary of their wedding to commemorate their special day; however, you can have your vow renewal whenever you like, there is no obligation to have it on your anniversary. So if your wedding anniversary doesn’t suit, how about the day you met or when you started dating? What is key is that the time is right for you both and perhaps represents a period in which you want to pay particular tribute to your commitment.
Make it meaningful for who you are NOW!
Make sure the day is focused on you and your partner and do what makes you happy. Whether that is a more opulent style or casual celebration, there are no rules! We advise couples to try to decide early in the planning process how formal your event and dress code will be, as this will set the tone for your day. It is important though when inviting your guests you clearly communicate the plan so they know what to expect.
Unlike a marriage, a vow renewal does not require a license. It is purely ceremonial, so can be conducted by anyone. Though some couples decide to have a celebrant, it is not essential, and it can be an opportunity to have a friend or family member conducting the ceremony. You can also incorporate your children or other guests who may not have been present at your wedding. For example, if you were married during the Covid-19 pandemic, you may have a number of guests you wish to spend this special day with. Having a celebrant may however, bring you peace of mind and help bring structure to the proceedings. Celebrants can also guide you on readings, poems, quotes etc. that you may want to incorporate into your ceremony. If you are using a family member/s, we recommend appointing one individual to oversee the planning of the speakers and the music on the day, as this can lift some of the responsibility from your shoulders.
The McGlynn Sisters
Your Guest List will be Different from your Wedding
A vow renewal is a fantastic opportunity to have the guest list you perhaps didn’t have at your wedding. You may wish to condense the list you had, making it just your nearest and dearest. As many people find their wedding guest list comprises of many people they do not really know, your vow renewal can be a day dedicated to those you have close relationships with. Or if you were married during the global pandemic, why not invite those you wished you could’ve had there and let them celebrate your love in person? Since being married you may have nurtured new friendships that are very meaningful to you, this could be an opportunity to involve those people in your special day
The day is completely yours- no traditions needed!
As you are already married, a vow renewal doesn’t have a set symbolic act like a wedding, so again it’s up to you what you would like the climax of your ceremony to be. Some decide to buy new wedding bands, however others decide to take a different approach, like other symbols of unity. Hand-fasting is an old Scottish Tradition for wedding ceremonies but can also be effective in your vow renewal. If you have children, you could fast you and your children’s hands bound to symbol of your family and what you have shared together. Another Scottish wedding tradition you could adopt is sharing the Quaich. The Quaich is a two handled ‘loving cup’ which when drank from seals the bond of two people and seals the bond of two families, making them one. The Quaich symbolises the love and trust implied by the bond and could also be passed to family members. You could also light a unity candle or use sand-blending as symbolic gestures.
Harper Scott Photography
I think we can all say that the last couple of years has made us re-evaluate what truly is important in our lives. Those nearest and dearest to us will most definitely sit high in the priority list for most! The renewal of wedding vows may not have been something that you ever gave much thought to. Here at SHBT Weddings our experienced team would happily have a chat with you to see how a vow renewal might work for you from the intimate small celebration to the merriment of partying into the wee hours!
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Get in touch with us for more information on renewing your vows!
