top of page

How to Plan the Perfect Wedding in Aberdeen: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning your dream wedding can be both exciting and challenging, especially in a city as beautiful as Aberdeen with its abundance of stunning venues, talented vendors, and unique settings. From choosing the right venue to selecting the best catering and entertainment, here’s everything you need to know to create a memorable wedding in Aberdeen.


1. Choose the Right Venue

Aberdeen offers a wide range of wedding venues, from grand castles to intimate gardens and modern city hotels. The venue sets the tone for your entire wedding, so start by deciding on the style and atmosphere you want. Do you envision a traditional castle setting, a rustic outdoor ceremony, or a chic city hotel?

Top Venues in Aberdeen:

  • Drumtochty Castle – A secluded, historic castle with beautiful gardens.

  • Ardoe House Hotel – A luxurious estate with beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces.

  • The Chester Hotel – Perfect for a modern, stylish city wedding with top-notch service.



2. Hire a Wedding Planner

A professional wedding planner can be invaluable in helping you organize your wedding, especially if you’re planning a large celebration. They know the ins and outs of the Aberdeen wedding scene, including reputable vendors, local regulations, and hidden gems. They can also help you stay on budget and ensure your vision comes to life smoothly.

Benefits of Hiring a Wedding Planner:

  • Saves time and reduces stress by coordinating vendors and schedules

  • Access to insider knowledge and trusted local contacts

  • Assistance with budgeting and managing details


3. Select Your Photographer and Videographer

Capturing the memories of your wedding day is essential, so invest in a professional photographer and videographer who can bring your vision to life. Aberdeen has talented photographers and videographers who can highlight the city’s unique beauty in your wedding album or film.



Recommended Aberdeen Videographers:

  • Blu Film – Known for cinematic wedding films that focus on emotional storytelling. At Blu Film, we specialize in creating beautifully edited, timeless wedding videos that capture every detail of your special day. Our team knows Aberdeen well and can help find scenic spots for stunning shots.

    https://www.blupromotions.co.uk/book


4. Choose Your Catering

Aberdeen’s culinary scene offers a wide array of catering options to suit every palate, from traditional Scottish fare to elegant international cuisine. Decide on a menu that reflects your tastes as a couple, and be sure to cater to any dietary restrictions your guests may have. You can choose from sit-down dinners, buffet-style meals, or even fun food stations for a unique twist.


Popular Catering Options:

  • Eat on the Green – Known for creative Scottish dishes with a modern twist.

  • The Marcliffe – Offers refined menus with seasonal, high-quality ingredients.

  • Salt & Sauce – Perfect for couples looking for a fun and relaxed catering style.


5. Pick Your Wedding Theme and Decor

Once you’ve secured a venue, decide on a theme and color scheme that reflects your style. Aberdeen’s natural beauty pairs well with a variety of themes, from classic elegance to rustic romance or coastal chic. Work with a local decorator or florist who can help you bring your vision to life with stunning decor and floral arrangements.


Ideas for Themes in Aberdeen:

  • Classic Scottish Elegance – Think tartan touches, kilts, and heather decor.

  • Rustic Countryside – Wooden accents, wildflowers, and outdoor lighting.

  • Coastal Aberdeen – Soft blues, sandy colors, and coastal-inspired details.


6. Plan Your Ceremony and Reception Music

Music plays a huge role in creating the right atmosphere for your wedding. Aberdeen has fantastic options for live bands, DJs, and traditional Scottish music. Consider live bagpipes for your ceremony entrance or a lively ceilidh band for the reception.


Popular Music Options:

  • Ceilidh Bands – For a traditional Scottish feel with lively dancing.

  • Blu Promotions DJs – With a range of styles and playlists, our DJs at Blu Promotions can create the perfect soundtrack for your wedding.

  • Classical Ensembles – String quartets or harpists for a sophisticated touch.

    https://www.blupromotions.co.uk/book


7. Plan Guest Accommodations

With Aberdeen’s many hotels and B&Bs, you’ll have plenty of options for your guests, from luxurious accommodations to cozy spots. Consider providing a list of recommended places to stay and maybe even arranging group rates for popular nearby hotels.


Popular Hotel Options:

  • The Marcliffe Hotel – A luxurious option with fine dining and amenities.

  • Village Hotel Aberdeen – A modern, comfortable hotel with great service.

  • Malmaison Aberdeen – Trendy and stylish, perfect for younger guests.


8. Arrange Transportation

Aberdeen’s venues are often spread out, so consider arranging transportation to ensure your guests can travel comfortably from the ceremony to the reception. Options like buses, limos, or even vintage cars add style and convenience.

Transportation Tips:

  • Arrange shuttle buses for large groups

  • Opt for a vintage car or horse-drawn carriage for a fairytale entrance

  • Provide detailed directions and schedules to make things easier for guests


9. Add Unique Aberdeen Touches

Incorporate local elements into your wedding to celebrate the charm of Aberdeen. From favors that showcase Scottish traditions to local drink options, small touches can make your wedding uniquely memorable.

Ideas for Local Touches:

  • Scottish Whisky – Serve local Aberdeen whisky as a wedding favor or add a whisky-tasting bar.

  • Scottish Treats – Mini Scottish shortbread or tablet favors for guests to take home.

  • Local Florals – Use Scottish flowers like heather or thistles in your bouquet and decor.


10. Don’t Forget Your Marriage License

In Aberdeen, you’ll need to register your intent to marry with the local Registrar Office, ideally at least 29 days before your wedding date. Make sure all paperwork is in order, and don’t forget to bring identification and any necessary documents.

Registrar Office Info:

  • Register your intent to marry at the Aberdeen City Registrar Office

  • Submit documents at least 29 days before your wedding

  • Contact the office well in advance to ensure smooth processing

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page