Scottish Wedding Traditions to Include in Your Wedding
Quaich Ceremony
Quaich is often referred to as the love cup as you each take a handle to take a drink, showing you trust one another to share the cup. You can fill the cup with a beverage of your choice, usually whisky or you can combine two drinks symbolising the two of you becoming one.
‘Quaich’ comes from the Scottish Gaelic word ‘cuach’, meaning ‘cup’, and is often referred to as the ‘cup of friendship’ or ‘loving cup’.
Handfasting
A handfasting ceremony is an ancient Celtic tradition and symbolises the binding of two lives. This symbolism is portrayed by the couples' hands being bound together by a cord.
Handfasting ceremonies date back over 2000 years. An ancient Celtic tradition, it was originally used to symbolise a betrothal, during which a druid priest would declare that the couple would be bound together. This engagement would last a year, as a sort of 'trial marriage', after which you'd decide to opt in or opt-out.
Kilts and Tartan
One of the most striking visual elements of a Scottish wedding is the attire. Grooms, and sometimes even the bridal party, don traditional kilts made from the tartan of their clan. This practice not only showcases national pride but also pays homage to family heritage. Each tartan pattern is unique to a particular clan, making it a personal and meaningful statement.
In my experience so far, Scottish people love it when non-Scottish people wear the kilts, respectfully of course, and you can even design your own tartan and create a clan with your family name!
Heather Plant
Heather, a plant native to Scotland, is considered a symbol of good luck. Sprigs of white heather are often included in the bride’s bouquet, the groom’s boutonniere, or given to guests as favors. Incorporating heather into the wedding is believed to bring protection and prosperity to the newlyweds.
Origin. In Scotland, heather is said to be stained with the blood of clan wars, thus white is the luckiest, growing only where no blood has been spilled. For this reason, Scottish warriors may have worn white heather for protection. Many people still believe, that the gift of white heather brings luck to both, the giver and receiver. Scottish brides have always carried a sprig of heather down the aisle for luck.
Ceilidh Dance
The word Ceilidh (kay-lee) originated from the Gaelic word for ‘gathering’ or ‘party.
And its the most fun you will ever have, there are bands dedicated to ceilidh dancing, and between songs will give you a full tutorial to be able to participate and it’s an energetic folk music flash mob.
Ceilidhs remind me of this scene in The Titanic, although it’s an Irish folk dance they do, some of the moves are pretty similar! (Holding hands and spinning and having your arms linked while you go around each other)