Why thousands of couples are choosing Scotland to say 'I do'
Scotland has become a premier destination for international couples seeking unique wedding experiences, particularly in historic locations like Gretna Green. Data shows that nearly a quarter of all marriages in Scotland involve non-residents, driven by the country's romantic reputation and accessible marriage laws.
Why it matters
The trend highlights the economic and cultural impact of 'destination weddings' on local tourism and the enduring appeal of historic marriage traditions.
Image source, ElliotCauncePhotography Image caption, Hayden and Savannah from the US got married in a Scottish castle
Hayden and Savannah had never set foot in Scotland before they decided it was the perfect place to get married last May.
The couple, from Pennsylvania in the US, wanted a destination wedding that would take their family and friends on an adventure with them.
They considered locations across Europe, before deciding on Scotland after Savannah saw photographs of a castle wedding online.
"I think it was on Pinterest," she said. "Somebody got married in a castle and I was like 'Oh, I have to do that'."
The pair are far from alone in seeing Scotland as the ultimate romantic destination.
Nearly a quarter of all marriages registered in Scotland last year involved couples who did not live in the country.
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