Why a Wee Wedding?

February 18, 2025 MM The Celebrant

7 Brilliant Advantages of a Wee Wedding in Scotland

Big weddings are grand, but have you ever considered the charm of a “wee wedding”? Think intimate, personal, and—let’s be honest—less faff. Whether it’s in your granny’s garden, the pub where you met, or your own cosy living room, here are seven reasons why a small wedding might just be the best decision you ever make (other than saying ‘I do’, of course!).

1. You Save a Fortune (More Money for the Honeymoon!)

Large weddings can cost the equivalent of a small castle, but a wee wedding? That’s a budget-friendly dream! Spend less on chair covers and canapés, and more on a spectacular honeymoon—or even a deposit on a house. Imagine sipping cocktails in the Maldives instead of stressing over a seating plan.

2. Less Stress, More Fun

Fewer guests mean fewer logistics. No need to wrangle a hundred people into a group photo or worry about distant relatives falling out over the chicken or fish. A wee wedding means you actually get to enjoy your day instead of micromanaging it.

3. The Venue Can Be Somewhere Truly Meaningful

Why book an expensive venue when you can say your vows in the pub where you had your first date? Or in your best friend’s garden, under fairy lights? A small wedding lets you choose a place that actually means something to you, rather than a generic wedding hall that smells faintly of stress and Prosecco.

4. Everyone Actually Gets to Speak to Each Other

At a big wedding, you spend half the day nodding politely at distant cousins you’ve never met. A wee wedding means real conversations, proper belly laughs, and an actual chance to soak in the love. No need for awkward introductions when everyone already knows each other!

5. The Food Can Be Exactly What You Want

Forget the mass-produced chicken supreme! With a small wedding, you can have fish and chips, a barbecue, or even a takeaway from your favourite curry house. One couple even got married in their living room and ordered in pizza—pure genius!

6. No Obligatory Plus-Ones or Distant Relatives

No offence to your mum’s work colleague’s daughter, but does she really need to be there? A small wedding gives you permission to invite only the people who truly matter. No guilt, no awkward small talk, just your nearest and dearest celebrating with you.

7. It’s Unique, Personal, and Unforgettable

Big weddings can sometimes feel a bit “copy and paste”—same structure, same routine. But a wee wedding? That’s all about you. Whether it’s a DIY setup in your house, a surprise elopement, or a handfasting in your pal’s garden, your day will be one-of-a-kind.

Final Thought

A wee wedding isn’t just a budget-friendly option—it’s a chance to have a day that’s all about love, laughter, and zero stress. So whether you’re tying the knot in a tiny cottage, your favourite pub, or your own back garden, remember: size doesn’t matter, but memories do!

For more about Wee Weddings Click Here!

Kilts, Tartan, Uncategorized

Why Wear Tartan?

October 30, 2024October 1, 2025 MM The Celebrant

7 Reasons Why You Should Wear Tartan to a Wedding

My Humorous Take on Embracing Your Inner Scotsman!

As a celebrant, I’ve seen it all at weddings—from the emotional vows to the dance-floor disasters.

But one thing that never fails to bring a smile to my face (and the faces of many guests) is when someone rocks up in tartan.

If you’re on the fence about it, here are seven slightly cheeky reasons why you should absolutely wear tartan to a wedding!

1. You’ll Be the Star of Every Photo (Sorry, Bride)
Let’s be real: tartan is like the VIP pass to the wedding photos. That bold, beautiful pattern is going to pop in every picture. In fact, you might outshine the bride! (OK, maybe don’t try that, but you will look memorable!) Plus, those “action shots” of you swishing your kilt on the dance floor? Instagram gold.

2. Built-in Air Conditioning
Planning to attend a summer wedding? While everyone else is overheating in their three-piece suits and cocktail dresses, you’ll be breezing through the day, quite literally. A kilt provides that all-important ventilation, perfect for those long ceremonies where it’s 30 degrees, but you’re still expected to sit like a saint.

3. Instant Credibility with Scotsmen
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that wearing tartan instantly elevates your status at any wedding (especially if it’s a Scottish one). It’s like being granted honorary Scotsman or Scotswoman status. You don’t even need to speak Gaelic. Just grab a whisky, nod seriously, and throw out the occasional “Aye”—you’ll be the crowd favorite in no time.

4. Dance Moves Look 10x Better in a Kilt
Whether you’re doing the ceilidh or just your own brand of “freeform interpretive dance,” everything looks more impressive with tartan flying around. A good kilt twirl on the dance floor can make you look like a professional—even if your two left feet tell a different story.

5. The Mystery of What’s Under the Kilt
Oh, the eternal question. Is it just tradition, or are you being a brave Scotsman and going “full regalia” – commando? Whatever you decide, the mystique alone will keep people talking about your attire long after the wedding. Just be prepared for some cheeky guests who might try to find out!

6. You’ll Never Lose Track of Your Clan
At big weddings, it’s easy to lose your group, but not if you’re wearing tartan! Your family and friends will spot you across the room in your distinct pattern. Plus, it makes it super easy for the photographer to gather all the clan members for a group photo. “Tartan folks, over here!”—sorted.

7. Because Regular Pants Are Boring
Why settle for trousers when you can wear a kilt? It’s got flair, it’s got history, and it’s the only formalwear where people don’t bat an eye if you show a little leg. Let’s face it: everyone else at the wedding is wearing the same old black, grey, or navy suits. You? You’re the life of the tartan party!

—

So there you are!

Swing your kilt

More about wearing a kilt CLICK

Humanist Weddings

Why MM The Celebrant?

October 16, 2024October 13, 2024 MM The Celebrant

Why Would You Ask Me to Marry You?

7 Reasons to Choose MM The Celebrant for your wedding!

When planning your wedding, selecting the right celebrant can transform your ceremony into a deeply meaningful moment. You want someone who’s not only professional but also heartfelt, adaptable, and fully committed to your unique love story. That’s where I come in—I’m a celebrant with a deep love for Scottish traditions and a passion for Italian culture. Here are seven reasons why I could be the perfect choice to officiate your big day.

1. Passion for Italian Culture

Though I don’t come from an Italian background, my time living in Italy has given me a profound appreciation for its rich culture. Whether it’s the warmth of Italian hospitality or the beautiful language, I bring my love for all things Italian into my work here in Scotland. I proudly wear the Clan Italia Tartan, designed by Michael Lemetti, as a symbol of my dedication to celebrating and promoting Italian heritage within Scottish culture.

2. A Celebrant Who Understands the Power of Love

Having spent years as a mother, traveler, and now a celebrant, I’ve seen love take on many forms. My experiences shape how I connect with couples, bringing depth, empathy, and a genuine desire to honor your unique relationship. Your love story is what makes your ceremony special, and I’m here to help you tell it in the most meaningful way.

3. Tailored Ceremonies Just for You

Your wedding ceremony should be a true reflection of who you are as a couple, and I’m dedicated to crafting a service that’s as unique as your love story. I’ll work closely with you to ensure that every element, from the vows to the rituals, feels personal and significant. Whether you’d like to incorporate Scottish traditions or Italian influences (or both!), I’ll ensure your ceremony is completely bespoke.

4. A Spirit of Adventure and Resilience

Just like love, life’s greatest moments often come with unexpected challenges. My passion for outdoor swimming in cold Scottish waters is a reminder of the resilience and adventure I bring to my life and my work. No matter what comes our way on your wedding day, I’ll be there to ensure everything runs smoothly with grace and flexibility.

5. Inclusivity and Respect for All Cultures

I believe that love has no boundaries, and your wedding ceremony should reflect the inclusivity and respect that all relationships deserve. Whether you’re blending cultures, embracing modern love, or honoring unique traditions, I’ll work with you to make sure your ceremony feels inclusive, authentic, and reflective of who you are as a couple.

6. A Friendly and Supportive Partner

From our first conversation to the moment you exchange vows, I’ll be by your side every step of the way. As a celebrant, I pride myself on being approachable, friendly, and fully invested in your happiness. Together, we’ll create a ceremony that’s stress-free and filled with joy, so you can focus on each other and the meaning of the day.

7. Traditional Yet Personalized Touches

While I love Scottish traditions, I also believe in creating ceremonies that feel personal and modern. From traditional elements like Scottish handfasting to Italian influences such as an olive branch exchange, I’ll help you strike the perfect balance between honoring the past and celebrating your future together.

celebrate life, Celebrations, Civil Celebrant, electricity,, familial love, Fun, Life, Love, Mindfulness, poetry, Relationship Advice

What is Love?

September 9, 2024 MM The Celebrant

As the sun sets on my romantic dreams!

I still don’t understand what it is!

A bit like electricity?

Love is like a light switch which turns on and, in my case off—I still don’t understand how that works either. Sometimes love lights up your world, other times it shocks the heck out of you, and occasionally it leaves you in the dark, wondering if you paid the bill!

Love is indeed complex, like trying to fold a fitted sheet. We think there’s a “right way” to do it, but let’s be honest—most of us are just rolling it up and hoping it doesn’t unravel at the worst possible moment which is a bit like some relationships.

Yes, familial love is often considered the simplest and most instinctive form of love. It’s like the Wi-Fi of relationships—always there, connecting you whether you like it or not. Sibling love, in particular, is a special kind of chaos. One minute you’re ready to donate a kidney, the next you’re wondering how they’ve managed to annoy you with just their breathing. But that’s love—equal parts devotion and exasperation!

Romantic love is definitely like a roller coaster designed by a mad scientist—thrilling, confusing, sometimes making you scream, and yet, you keep getting back in line. One moment, you’re writing love poems in your head; the next, you’re arguing over who left the cap off the toothpaste. It’s wild, unpredictable, and just when you think you’ve got it figured out, it flips upside down. Honestly, understanding romantic love is like trying to read a novel in a language you don’t speak, but you’re too invested to put it down!

Platonic love with men can feel like trying to keep a cat off your keyboard—no matter how many times you explain the boundaries, they keep testing them. It’s that deep connection where you think, “Are we friends?” and then, boom, they’re looking at you like you’re the last piece of pizza on the platonic platter. Love should be all about shared values, trust, and having a laugh—but sometimes, we misread the map and ends up at “Kissville” when you’re just trying to chill in “Pals Town”.

Self-love is definitely the best!

No need for mind games or decoding mixed signals—it’s just you, appreciating yourself like the absolute legend you are. You always know what you want for dinner, how you like your coffee, and let’s be honest, no one gives you a better pep talk than you. It’s the most straightforward relationship you’ll ever have, plus you never have to share the last piece of your saucy orecchiette!

Now that’s true love!

To find our more about becoming a celebrant CLICK

Uncategorized

Tying the Knot?

July 24, 2024July 24, 2024 MM The Celebrant

Legal or not?

In Scotland, tying the knot, or getting married, is a legal process governed by specific regulations.

The differences between a non-legal and legal wedding are very specific and the ceremony needs to reflect this. As a celebrant I cannot stand in front of guest and an any way ‘pretend’ a wedding is legal if it is not.

To make it legal I need to have the schedule issued by the Registrar of Scotland and the date and venue must be correct. If there are any discrepancies I would phone the Registry office of who issued the schedule and they would decide if the wedding would, or should not go ahead.

These are not decisions we can make because that is Scots law!

Here’s a summary of the key points regarding marriage in Scotland:

Legal Weddings:

Age: Both parties must be at least 16 years old.
Capacity: Both parties must have the mental capacity to understand the nature of the marriage.
Notice of Marriage: Notice must be given to the registrar at least 29 days before the intended date of marriage.
Residency: No residency requirement for marriage, but notice must be given to the registrar in the district where the marriage will take place.
Documentation: Both parties must provide documentation including birth certificates, passports, and, if applicable, divorce or death certificates from previous marriages.
Consent: Both parties must freely consent to the marriage.
Prohibited Degrees of Relationship: Parties cannot be closely related by blood or adoption.

Marriage Certificate

A marriage certificate is issued following the ceremony, confirming the legal status of the marriage.

During the ceremony, both parties must declare that they accept each other as legally married in the presence of the celebrant and two witnesses.

If you have any specific questions about the legalities or processes related to marriage in Scotland, feel free to ask!

To find out more about how to become a celebrant click here!

Uncategorized

Scottish Wedding

December 18, 2023July 17, 2024 MM The Celebrant

Hello and let me introduce myself!

I am a Scottish Celebrant based in Glasgow and love meeting people , listening to their stories, writing the ceremony and marrying them!

let me help you write your story!

To get married in Scotland, you typically need to:

Choose a Venue: Select a venue that is approved for marriages, which can include hotels, castles, or even outdoors.
Submit Notice of Marriage: File a notice of marriage at the local registrar’s office. This is a legal requirement and should be done at least 29 days before the wedding.
Provide Necessary Documents: Bring required documents, such as passports, birth certificates, and proof of address, to the registrar.
Witnesses: Have two witnesses present at the ceremony, and they must be at least 16 years old.
Officiant: You can choose a religious or civil ceremony, and an authorized celebrant or registrar will conduct it.
Legal Requirements: Ensure you meet legal requirements, like being at least 16 years old, not being closely related, and not already being married.
Marriage Schedule: Obtain a marriage schedule from the registrar no earlier than 7 days before the wedding. It must be returned after the ceremony for the marriage to be officially recorded.