Four enchanting Scottish wedding traditions 

Scottish wedding traditions you can include on your big day

Scotland is a country steeped in history and tradition, and tradition is especially evident in Scottish weddings. From the sound of the bagpipes to the lively dances, a Scottish wedding is a celebration of love, family and heritage. Here we explore some of the most beloved and enduring traditions that are often incorporated into modern Scottish weddings. 

Whether you’re of Scottish descent or simply drawn to the romance and charm of a traditional Scottish wedding, you’re sure to find inspiration in these timeless customs. So let’s dive in and discover the beauty and significance of some of the wedding traditions we love here at Melville Castle.

Give a Luckenbooth

The Luckenbooth is one of the most romantic traditional Scottish symbols of love. It's a brooch in the shape of a small, heart-shaped pin that was originally worn by Mary, Queen of Scots. Today, Luckenbooths are often given as wedding gifts or exchanged as a symbol of love and devotion. The brooch is usually made of silver and features intricate designs, such as interlocking hearts or thistles. It is traditional to wear a Luckenbooth on the left side of the chest, close to the heart, and it is said to bring good luck and happiness to the recipient.

Seal the bond with a quaich

A quaich is the traditional Scottish drinking ‘cup’ that’s used during the wedding ceremony to share a drink between the couple. This symbolises the sharing of their lives together and seals the bond between them. Although whisky is traditional, nowadays you can choose to drink what you like, with the quaich passed between friends and family and kept topped up — as is the Scottish way!

Traditional dancing

A ceilidh is a traditional Scottish dance that is a staple of many Scottish weddings and other celebrations. If you are planning a Scottish wedding, this is a great way to incorporate traditional elements into your celebration and keep the party going late into the night. No Scottish wedding is complete without a ceilidh!

Play the pipes

The sound of bagpipes is synonymous with Scotland and adds a touch of traditional elegance to weddings. Many couples choose to incorporate this iconic instrument into their big day, creating a magical atmosphere that their guests will remember for years to come. It's also a nod to the country's rich cultural heritage and adds a special touch to the celebration. From the bride walking down the aisle to the recessional, the music of the bagpipes provides a beautiful backdrop for the big day. Many Scottish wedding bands even include a piper in their line-up, ensuring that the traditional sound of the bagpipes is always present.

These are just a few of the many traditions that are often part of a Scottish wedding. Whether you choose to include one or all of these, your guests are sure to be enchanted, so go ahead, embrace your love for Scotland and create a wedding day that you and your guests will cherish forever.

Traditional Scottish weddings at Melville Castle 

At Melville Castle, our dedicated wedding team can help you to plan your perfect Scottish wedding on our private castle estate. With enchanting ballrooms, manicured gardens, a contemporary marquee and 33 boutique bedrooms, we can make your traditional Scottish wedding dreams come true.