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2026 Wedding Trends

MM The Celebrant

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7 Wedding Trends for 2026 According to a Scottish Wedding Celebrant!

If you’re planning a 2026 wedding in Scotland, prepare yourself — the trends are bold, meaningful, and gloriously Scottish. As a celebrant, I get a front-row seat to it all, and I’m happy to report that 2026 is shaping up beautifully.

Here are the seven biggest trends I’m already seeing for next year.

1. Personal Vows Are Getting Properly Personal

Couples are ditching the generic lines and writing vows that sound like them — heartfelt, honest, and sometimes unintentionally hilarious.
Think: promises to always make the tea, or to stop stealing the duvet.
2026 couples want sincerity, not scripts — and it makes ceremonies unforgettable.

2. Micro Weddings With Mega Atmosphere

Small weddings aren’t going anywhere.
In fact, 2026 will see more couples choosing intimate gatherings in their favourite corners of Scotland — forests, lochsides, hilltops, and maybe even Granny’s garden if the midges behave.
Fewer guests = more connection, more personality, and more time to enjoy the day rather than sprint through it.

3. Celebrant-Led Ceremonies Front and Centre

Good news for me (MM The Celebrant): couples want ceremonies that feel personal, inclusive, and original.
Celebrant-led weddings give you the freedom to:

  • Marry anywhere with landowner permission
  • Include personal stories
  • Blend traditions or create brand-new ones

2026 is all about meaningful moments rather than “insert-name-here” ceremonies.

4. “Anti-Stress” Wedding Planning

This might be my favourite trend.
Couples are simplifying — fewer complicated timelines, more relaxed structures.
Think: flexible ceremony start times, less rigid formalities, and focusing on what actually matters: the two of you promising a lifetime together.
(Your aunt will recover if the seating plan isn’t perfectly symmetrical.)

5. Bold Scottish Elements

Tartan will always be timeless — but in 2026 it’s getting creative.

Expect to see:

  • Mixed-pattern tartans
  • Tartan ribbon bouquets
  • Modern tartan suits (even pink and sage versions!)
  • Celtic readings and Scottish folklore woven into the ceremony

It’s Scottish tradition, just… with extra flair.

6. Sustainable Everything

2026 couples care deeply about the planet — and it’s showing.

Eco-friendly choices include:

  • Wildflower confetti
  • Locally sourced florals
  • Reusable décor
  • Pre-loved or re-designed wedding outfits

And of course, outdoor ceremonies in Scotland means the scenery does most of the decorating for free.

7. Dogs, Dogs, and More Dogs

Scotland has officially embraced the “dog of honour.”
In 2026, we’ll see more pups trotting down aisles with bow ties, flower collars, or incredibly serious expressions as they guard the rings.
And yes — I wholeheartedly support all canine involvement.
(Mud and slobber are temporary. Wedding memories are forever.)

Final Thoughts

2026 weddings in Scotland will be personal, relaxed, meaningful, and full of character — much like the couples themselves. Whether you’re planning a tiny ceremony on a clifftop or a big celebration in a barn, the trends all point to one thing:

Do it your way — and enjoy every moment of it.

Wedding Ideas!

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Two Glasgow Icons

MM The Celebrant

Why The Trades Hall and The Merchant’s Hall Are Perfect for a Proper Glasgow Wedding

When it comes to Glasgow wedding venues, few places capture the city’s history, heart, and style quite like The Trades Hall and The Merchant’s Hall. These two architectural gems sit in the beating heart of the city, steeped in Glasgow’s story — from the days of the proud merchant traders to the modern couples who now celebrate their love under those same grand ceilings.

As MM The Celebrant, I’ve had the absolute pleasure of leading ceremonies in both, and let me tell you — they’re not just beautiful venues. They’re part of Glasgow’s soul.

The Trades Hall – Grandeur with Glasgow Heart

If you’re after a wedding that feels elegant yet unmistakably Glaswegian, The Trades Hall of Glasgow in the Merchant City delivers on every level.

Built in the late 1700s and still owned by The Trades House of Glasgow, the building is full of rich history — high ceilings, sweeping staircases, sparkling chandeliers, and centuries of craftsmanship. Every detail whispers tradition, but there’s nothing stuffy about it. It’s warm, romantic, and full of atmosphere.

As a humanist celebrant, I love The Trades Hall because it has that perfect mix — grandeur and intimacy. You can create a ceremony that feels personal and emotional, but still has all the wow-factor your guests will talk about for years.

Why couples love The Trades Hall:

  • Iconic architecture and jaw-dropping interiors.
  • Central Merchant City location, perfect for photos.
  • Ideal for humanist weddings and bespoke ceremonies.
  • A space that feels both historic and heartfelt.

Pro tip from MM The Celebrant:
If you’re going for timeless Glasgow elegance, you can’t do better than standing under that chandelier, surrounded by your nearest and dearest, while I tell your story — laughter, love, and maybe a wee tear or two.

The Merchant’s Hall – Old-World Elegance in the City’s Heart

Just a few streets away sits another Glasgow treasure — The Merchant’s Hall, home to The Merchants House of Glasgow. This venue is pure class. From its grand staircase to the ornate ballroom, it’s like stepping back in time — but with all the modern comforts you need for a smooth, stylish day.

It’s a building that’s seen generations of Glasgow’s story unfold, and now, it’s hosting new stories of love.

For humanist weddings, The Merchant’s Hall offers an elegant blank canvas — you can fill it with your own touches, music, readings, and laughter. It’s perfect for couples who want something sophisticated but still personal, rooted in Glasgow tradition but open to something modern and meaningful.

Why couples choose The Merchant’s Hall:

  • Stunning historic setting with luxurious details.
  • Central location near George Square and Merchant City.
  • Gorgeous light for photographs and cinematic moments.
  • Welcoming staff who embrace modern, celebrant-led weddings.

MM The Celebrant’s take:
The Merchant’s Hall is the kind of place where your ceremony feels elevated — it’s not just a wedding, it’s an occasion. It’s where love meets legacy, and Glasgow shines at its best!

Let me help you tell your story!

Mx

humanist, Humanist Weddings, Uncategorized

Industrial Romance

MM The Celebrant

The Best Glasgow Wedding Venues for a Proper City Celebration

There’s something special about a Glasgow wedding — it’s got heart, grit, and a whole lot of soul. More and more couples are turning away from the traditional country house and instead embracing industrial wedding venues that showcase the city’s true character.

Two of the best examples? BaAD at the Barras and WEST on the Green — iconic, urban spaces that celebrate Glasgow’s roots while giving you the perfect backdrop for unforgettable wedding photos.

As MM The Celebrant, a proper Glasgow celebrant, I’ve had the joy of officiating ceremonies in both. And I can tell you — these venues don’t just look amazing, they feel authentic too

BaAD at the Barras – Industrial Cool with Glasgow Soul

If you’re looking for a unique Glasgow wedding venue – BaAD – is unbeatable. Nestled in the heart of the Barras Market, this glass-roofed, industrial-chic space brings together everything couples love about the city — creativity, community, and character.

With its exposed brick, high ceilings, and natural light, BaAD gives you a stunning setting that needs very little dressing up. You can go bold and modern, or keep it soft and romantic — either way, it’s a photographer’s dream.

As a Glasgow wedding celebrant, I love BaAD because it feels personal and also flexible. You can make it totally your own — a relaxed, laughter-filled ceremony surrounded by the city’s buzzing energy. This is Glasgow at its best.

WEST on the Green – A Glasgow Landmark with a Modern Twist

Over by Glasgow Green, WEST Brewery offers something truly special. Set inside the iconic Templeton Building, this venue is steeped in history — with those famous red-brick arches and vast windows giving you a dramatic industrial backdrop.

It’s perfect for couples who want a stylish Glasgow wedding venue that mixes heritage and contemporary flair. Inside, the working brewery adds a unique twist (and some seriously good pints for the reception!).

As someone who’s led ceremonies here, I can say WEST offers that rare blend — industrial elegance and warm hospitality. Plus, the photo opportunities are next level cool. The contrast between the architecture and your wedding style makes for breathtaking, proper Glasgow wedding photos.

Why Industrial Wedding Venues Work So Well in Glasgow

Industrial venues are full of texture, tone, and authenticity — just like the city itself. They let your personality shine without forcing a theme. Add some greenery, candlelight, and personal touches, and you’ll have a setting that feels both romantic and real.

And when you work with a Glasgow wedding celebrant like MM The Celebrant, you get a ceremony that fits right in — fun, heartfelt, a little bit cheeky, and full of Glasgow warmth. It’s not just about saying “I do”; it’s about celebrating who you are and where you’re from.

A Proper Glasgow Wedding – Real, Raw, and Full of Heart

Whether you’re walking down the aisle under the glass roof at BaAD or toasting your love at WEST Brewery, an industrial Glasgow wedding is all about connection — to each other and to the city you love.

These venues let you tell your story your way — bold, beautiful, and unmistakably Glasgow. And with MM The Celebrant leading the way, you’ll have a ceremony that’s just as unique as your venue.

Because at the end of the day, a proper Glasgow wedding isn’t about perfection — it’s about personality. And that’s something this city delivers in spades.

Check out the venues here BaAD WEST Weddings

Read more: Industrial Romance

humanist weddings, Humanist Weddings

Why a Wee Wedding?

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!

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Why Marry in Scotland?

MM The Celebrant

The Beauty of Getting Married in Scotland: A Celebration of Love and Tradition

Few places in the world offer such a breathtaking combination of natural beauty, rich history, and timeless romance as Scotland. For couples dreaming of a wedding filled with dramatic landscapes, enchanting castles, and deep cultural roots, Scotland stands out as a perfect destination. Here’s why tying the knot in this captivating country is truly magical:

1. Majestic Landscapes

Scotland is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on earth. From the rolling hills of the Highlands to the tranquil lochs and rugged coastlines, the country’s natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for your big day. Imagine saying your vows with a backdrop of the misty mountains of Glencoe or exchanging rings on the shores of Loch Ness. The diversity of landscapes ensures that no matter what your dream wedding setting is—whether a windswept cliffside or a lush forest—Scotland has it all.

2. Romantic Castles

Scotland is dotted with magnificent castles, each offering a slice of history and a touch of fairytale romance. Whether it’s the iconic Eilean Donan Castle perched on a small island or the grand halls of Edinburgh Castle overlooking the city, these ancient fortresses provide a unique and dramatic venue. Many of them offer exclusive wedding packages, allowing couples to marry in the same halls that once hosted kings, queens, and nobility. It’s an experience that truly makes you feel like royalty on your special day.

3. Rich Traditions

Scottish weddings are steeped in beautiful traditions, many of which can add a meaningful touch to your ceremony. The ancient ritual of “handfasting,” where the couple’s hands are tied together with ribbons to symbolize their union, is just one of many cultural customs that make a Scottish wedding so special. Add a bagpiper to serenade you as you walk down the aisle, and the unmistakable sound of Scotland will fill the air, blending tradition with the joy of celebration.

4. Flexible Legal Options

Scotland is one of the few countries in the world where you can get married almost anywhere, thanks to its flexible marriage laws. You’re not limited to churches or civil venues—if you dream of a mountain-top ceremony or a quiet wedding by a loch, Scottish law allows it. This freedom means your wedding can be as intimate, adventurous, or as grand as you like. You can exchange vows under the open sky in nature’s cathedral, surrounded by the beauty of Scotland.

5. Welcoming Hospitality

Scots are known for their warmth and hospitality, making any wedding in Scotland feel deeply personal and inviting. From local vendors, wedding planners, and venues, you’ll find people who are eager to help make your day perfect. Whether it’s a small elopement or a large family affair, you’ll be met with enthusiasm, attention to detail, and a genuine love for the celebration of marriage.

6. Weather and Magic

While Scotland may have a reputation for unpredictable weather, many couples embrace the charm of a little Highland rain. In fact, rain on your wedding day is considered good luck! Plus, the ever-changing skies often give way to some of the most stunning light displays—from soft, golden sunsets to vibrant rainbows arcing over ancient castles and lochs. The misty atmosphere adds a touch of magic to the already enchanting surroundings, giving your wedding an ethereal, almost otherworldly feel.

7. Endless Photo Opportunities

For photographers, Scotland is a dream come true. Every corner of the country offers picturesque settings that will make your wedding photos extraordinary. Whether it’s an intimate moment captured on the edge of a cliff, or a playful shot under a stone archway in an old castle, the Scottish scenery will ensure your memories are beautifully preserved in every shot.

8. Honeymoon Heaven

After the wedding, Scotland’s beauty doesn’t stop. The country is the perfect honeymoon destination as well! From exploring the bustling streets of Edinburgh or Glasgow to taking a romantic trip to the Isle of Skye, Scotland has something for every couple. You can hike through ancient forests, visit whisky distilleries, or relax in a cozy cottage by a roaring fire—making your first days as newlyweds an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Getting married in Scotland isn’t just about the ceremony—it’s about immersing yourself in a landscape rich in history, natural beauty, and romance. Whether you’re drawn to a grand castle, a serene loch, or a windswept hilltop, Scotland offers an unforgettable wedding experience that’s truly one of a kind. For couples seeking a wedding that feels magical, personal, and deeply rooted in tradition, there’s no place quite like Scotland.

Your Scottish wedding will be more than just a day—it will be an adventure, a celebration, and a story that will be remembered for a lifetime.

To find out more click here!

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Florence

MM The Celebrant

Do you  love the Romance of Florence?

I was staying Nella Piazza Santo Spirito which is known as the ‘Bohemian’ Oltrarno area of the city.  When I arrive at the apartment  there’s a very exciting, yet familiar, feel to the place.  As lady gives me the keys to the apartment she suggested dinner at a nearby Trattoria la Casalinga. It’s was at the other end of the square and when I get there it’s queued onto the street.

I do my usual, walk straight to the front and, when asked, say,

“Of course I’ve booked a table’! Continue reading “Florence” →

Covid 19, Uncategorized

Open For Whatever?

MM The Celebrant

What is the responsibility of the government?

If we are to go forward based on the reliability of the facts then we are scuppered because the messages we are receiving are muddled, ingenuous and misinformed to say the least!

Do we have responsibility for ourselves Continue reading “Open For Whatever?” →

Florence, Travel, Travel, Uncategorized

Harry’s Bar

MM The Celebrant

Harry’s Bar!

Table for One – Florence!

I was early back to the apartment and not very hungry but it was far too early to call it a night so I decided to take a stroll and see where the Arno took me? Continue reading “Harry’s Bar” →

article, climate change, Content, Uncategorized, Writing

Dear World

MM The Celebrant

Dear World

I know you’ve not been well and I’m sorry for not visiting but, well, you know how it is, we’re all so busy. Wee Greta keeps me informed about how you are, she’s trying so hard to look after you I’m afraid it’s making her quite unwell. Continue reading “Dear World” →