Scotland was among the earlier parts of the UK to legalise same-sex marriage, and the legal process for a same-sex wedding here is now identical to any other — but a few points are worth knowing specifically.
The legal position
Same-sex marriage has been legal in Scotland since the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 came into force in December 2014. The notice-of-marriage process, celebrant options and legal requirements described in our legal requirements guide apply equally, regardless of the couple's gender.
Converting an existing civil partnership
Couples who registered a civil partnership in Scotland before same-sex marriage became legal can apply to convert it into a marriage. This is a separate, generally simpler administrative process rather than a full notice-of-marriage application — current guidance and forms are available via mygov.scot, and it's worth confirming the current process directly with your local registrar, since procedures can be updated.
Choosing a genuinely welcoming venue
Most Scottish wedding venues are entirely comfortable hosting same-sex weddings, but "welcoming" is more than not saying no — look at whether a venue's own marketing and past real weddings (ask to see some) reflect couples like you, and ask directly how many same-sex weddings they've hosted rather than relying on a generic assurance.
Celebrants
Civil registrars and Humanist Society Scotland celebrants conduct same-sex weddings as standard. Religious ceremonies depend on the individual denomination and celebrant — some religious bodies in Scotland conduct same-sex marriages and some don't, so this is worth confirming directly and early if a religious ceremony matters to you.
Suppliers
Most photographers, caterers and other suppliers are used to and comfortable with same-sex weddings, but if it matters to you to work with suppliers who are specifically experienced with or actively welcoming of LGBTQ+ couples, it's a reasonable and increasingly common question to ask directly during initial enquiries.