Nov 27, 2023
The ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights, dancing against the stark, rugged landscape of the Scottish Highlands, can transform a winter wedding into a fairy-tale experience. For those daring couples willing to embrace the cold and unpredictable Highland weather, the rewards are memories steeped in magic and romance. Here's everything you need to know about planning a Northern Lights wedding in the Scottish Highlands.
1. Timing is Crucial
While the Northern Lights are notoriously elusive, your best bet to catch them in Scotland lies between October and March. Consider planning your wedding around the New Moon phase, when the skies are darkest.
2. Choose the Right Venue
Select a venue with clear, unobstructed views of the night sky. Traditional Scottish castles, remote lodges, or even outdoor marquees can offer fantastic viewing opportunities.
3. Dress for the Occasion
Embrace the chill with elegant winter wedding attire. Think velvet capes, faux fur stoles, and thermal underlayers. Ensure your guests also come prepared with guidance on suitable attire.
4. Collaborate with a Knowledgeable Photographer
It's essential to work with a photographer experienced in night photography and capturing the Aurora Borealis. They'll know how to get those dreamy shots even in low light conditions.
5. Plan Alternative Entertainment
Given the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights, it's wise to have other evening entertainment options. Consider hiring local musicians to play traditional Scottish tunes or organising a whisky tasting session.
6. Warm and Hearty Cuisine
Treat your guests to traditional Scottish winter fare like haggis, neeps and tatties, and rich meat stews. Don't forget the warm beverages like mulled wine or hot toddies.
7. Incorporate Local Traditions
From handfasting (an ancient Celtic ritual) to reading traditional Scottish poems, infuse your ceremony with the rich cultural tapestry of the Highlands.
8. Light Up the Night
In addition to the natural wonder of the Aurora, consider adding fairy lights, lanterns, and bonfires to create warmth and ambiance.
9. Inform and Educate Guests
Given the uniqueness of this wedding theme, provide guests with information on the Northern Lights, the best viewing practices, and some fun folklore associated with the phenomenon.
10. Have a Contingency Plan
The Highlands' weather can be unpredictable. Ensure you have indoor alternatives for all major events, and be flexible with your photography sessions.
Saying your vows beneath the mesmerising hues of the Northern Lights in the Scottish Highlands is undoubtedly an unparalleled experience. While it demands extra planning and a degree of flexibility, the end result—a union celebrated beneath one of nature's most breathtaking displays—is worth every effort. Let the magic of the Scottish winter landscape be the unforgettable backdrop to the beginning of your marital journey.
