Scottish Wedding Customs

Scotland has its share of amusing customs. In the past, "the banns of marriage" at the church was necessary as a notification to all of the upcoming wedding. Today, the "banns of marriage" is not as common; however, it is considered good wedding etiquette to inform friends and family of the approaching marriage.

Fourteen days after the couple gives notice, they can begin arranging their wedding ceremony. Interestingly, even before a couple can elope, they should give the fourteen-day notice, if not to family and friends, then at least to the local registrar where the couple plans to elope.

Prior to the wedding, the bride is given a "show of presents" wherein the wedding gifts she has received thus far are unwrapped and displayed in an all-day open house setting. Tea and snacks are given to the guests and lively conversation is shared.

Later, the bride is dressed up in a costume and treated like royalty to a night on the town by her friends. With her, the bride carries a salt filled plastic potty. The purpose for this is to fill the potty with money, which the bride receives for giving kisses to strangers and friends alike.

While the bride enjoys her night out, the groom dresses in a stuffed costume and impersonates a pregnant woman. He is then taken around the town by his friends. Often times, a naked and drunk groom may be found outside his home in the wee hours. Days later, after the wedding ceremony, a festivity takes place with music and dancing. The couple is then taken to their new home.