Scottish Wedding Etiquette Guide

Traditional Order of Speeches

There is no set time that is considered to be more appropriate for the speeches. Whether it is during the drinks reception or before or after the Wedding Breakfast.

First Speeches

Person who gives the bride away ~ says a few words about the bride and groom and proposes a toast to the happy couple.

Second Speeches

Groom ~ begins by responding to the toast on behalf of the bride and himself. Following on, the groom proposes a toast to the bridesmaids.

Third Speeches

Best Man ~ he replies on behalf of the bridesmaids, gives his speech and reads out any telemessages, emails and cards.

Speech Delivery

The speeches should be brief and typically should take no more than 5-15 minutes each. A nervous speaker who would like to do the bare minimum can simply concentrate on the main purpose of the speech which is to propose the toast and thank people. It is becoming increasingly more popular for the bride to say a few words if she wishes but it is seldom expected of her.

Marriage Schedule

Marriage Schedules must be handed in to the registrar of the district in which the ceremony will take place within 3 months of the date of the wedding and no later than 15 days before the date. For Dundas Castle weddings you will need to contact the district registrar in South Queensferry – 0131 331 1590. The marriage schedule can not be issued back to the bride and groom more than seven days before the date of the wedding and may only be collected by the bride and groom. The registrar will be able to tell you when it can be collected.

Tips from the Dundas team

“Don’t put your veil over your face until you reach the foot of the aisle – lipstick or gloss ruin your veil! But, don’t be too precious about your dress during the day – just have fun”
~ Lisa, Wedding Co-ordinator

“Remember to cater for any children, drawing books are a good way to entertain them during the reception. If there are a number of young ones attending a crèche company is useful”
~ Bob, Events Team member

“Ensure that your bridesmaids know how to lace up your bodice and ‘hook and loop’ your dress for dancing”
~ Brigita, Events Co-ordinator

“Seriously consider the time of your ceremony so that you have plenty of time to get ready, especially if you have lots of bridesmaids. This will also give you enough time to enjoy a glass of bubbly and eat something so that your stomach doesn’t rumble during the ceremony!”
~ Karen, Events Team member

“To the bride and groom – set aside 10 minutes throughout the day to see each other and really take in what is happening. If you are camera shy, try to get at least one photo that you will be happy with”
~ Ricarda, Operations Manager

“To all the grooms - don't feel as though you have to stand at the top of the aisle once all of your guests are seated as your bride may be a little late! You can stand up at the last minute”
~ Ben,  Assistant Operations Manager

Wedding Planner Suggestions

As soon as possible

Decide on type of wedding and budget. Arrange a date, book a venue and pay deposit. Arrange a religious, civil or humanist wedding day making contact with a minister, registrar or celebrant. Chose your bridesmaids and grooms party. Draw up a guest list. Buy Wedding Insurance.

12 Months before

Select Photographer, videographer, toast master, piper and the entertainment for reception. Book your honeymoon. Order wedding cars and cake. Select a wedding gown and attendant's outfits.

6-4 Months before

Obtain a Marriage Notice Form, order stationary, visit your florist, arrange a Gift registry list. Select accessories for the Bride and select the wedding rings.

2-4 Months before

Submit Marriage Schedule. Order any wedding favours. Book Beautician and hairdressers. Send out invites.

2 Months before

Create your table plan. Check passports are in order for honeymoon. Bride to have hair and make-up trial.

1 Month before

Check all bookings. Confirm rehearsal time with your minister/priest or celebrant and the church/venue. Hold Hen and Stag parties

2 Weeks before

Final numbers to be submitted to venue*. Check speeches are prepared. Pick up marriage schedule. Check all travel documents for honeymoon.

1 Week Before

Pack cases for honeymoon. Ensure best man has the rings. Deliver favours etc to venue*

On the day relax and enjoy, making sure that you steal a couple of minutes together to absorb the day!

*check this with your venue