A guide to getting married in Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire boasts no fewer than 300 castles, ruins and stately homes, more than 50 classic, unspoilt golf courses, and a large number of whisky distilleries. Aberdeenshire offers a beautiful backdrop for a wedding with its stunning landscapes and charming venues. Planning a wedding in Aberdeenshire can be a wonderful experience, and with careful preparation, you can create the perfect day to celebrate your love.

The best wedding venues in Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire is home to many beautiful wedding venues, each with its own unique character and charm.

Here are some of the best wedding venues in Aberdeenshire:

Cluny Castle - Situated in Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen & Deeside, Cluny Castle is a historic wedding venue perfect for soon-to-be newlyweds who desire an unforgettable celebration in Scotland. Dating back to the 14th century, this beautiful castle has set the scene for countless fairytale weddings. Its charming grounds and opulent interior are bound to delight your friends and relatives. With a talented team dedicated to realising your perfect day, this getaway has everything you need for a special occasion like no other.

Logie Country House - Logie Country House is a family-owned and operated 1680s wedding venue in Pitcaple, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This magnificent, multi-award-winning wedding venue is set amidst 170 acres of picturesque countryside. The estate upon which the house rests dates back to 1492. The original castle was built in 1680 and extensively modified over the course of the succeeding century. In 2009 it underwent a multimillion-pound restoration. Today, couples and their guests can enjoy picturesque courtyards, sumptuous bedrooms, stunning antiques and coats of arms, along with all the latest modern comforts and conveniences.

Raemoir House - Raemoir House is a wedding venue located in Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen & Deeside. This property believes that weddings are the culmination of a lifetime of dreams and wishes rolled into one momentous event. Planning one can seem daunting at first, but take the time to visit Raemoir House and Estate, and you may find that realising your vision is just a tree-lined drive away.

Glen Tanar Ballroom - Glen Tanar Ballroom is a beautiful wedding venue in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire. Unique and exclusive, this venue provides a memorable setting amongst some of Scotland's most breathtaking scenery.

Fyvie Castle - The National Trust for Scotland's Fyvie Castle is an opulent wedding venue in rural Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen & Deeside. Designed to entertain and impress, couples will love the lavish and ornate interiors of this historical building. Nearlyweds who wish to feel like royalty as they say 'I do' can realise their fantasy in this stunning Scottish castle.

The best wedding photographers in Aberdeenshire

Choosing the right wedding photographer can be a daunting task. Whether you're looking for a traditional approach or a more contemporary style, there are many skilled wedding photographers in Aberdeenshire who can deliver stunning images that you'll treasure for years to come.

Here are some of the best wedding photographers in Aberdeenshire:

Scott Arlow Photography - Scott Arlow Photography is a wedding photographer based in Aberdeenshire, UK. Scott is a skilled professional who loves nothing more than putting a unique spin on his craft. He focuses on ensuring his clients feel seen and safe in his company, guaranteeing to get a smile from even the most camera-shy of people.

Aaron Pirie Photography - Based in the Northeast town of Portlethen, Scotland, Aaron Pirie Photography documents weddings throughout Aberdeenshire. Aaron believes that your wedding day deserves to be cherished forever and that you should share its stories with loved ones for years to come. This photographer turns this dream into a reality by capturing all the golden moments of the special occasion in elegant and everlasting images.

Katie Chisholm Photography - Katie Chisholm Photography provides coverage for weddings and events from their Turriff location near Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Owner Katie has been a professional photographer since 2015 and began specializing in weddings in 2021. She favors a documentary approach and loves capturing the moments and emotions that make each celebration unique and special. Katie feels that your special day should be a day for love and laughter, and she will be ready to document the new memories you’ll cherish forever.

Rose Malone Photography - Rose Malone Photography is a wedding photography studio based in Aberdeenshire, UK. Owner Rose is an artisan portrait photographer who brings years of experience to every couple she works with. Offering a range of services, she loves preserving the precious moments from each couple's once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

Eni Groner Photography - Eni Groner Photography is an Aberdeenshire, Scotland-based company specializing in capturing timeless moments that newlyweds can relive for years. Owner and operator Eni focuses on a natural, documentary-styled approach. Her calming personality helps to create a relaxed, comfortable environment where clients can feel at ease, allowing for candid photography. Eni aims to capture those magical moments as they occur, highlighting the intense love surrounding the couple on their wedding day.

Getting a wedding dress in Aberdeenshire

When searching for wedding dresses in Aberdeenshire, be sure to schedule appointments in advance, especially if you plan to visit bridal boutiques or designer showrooms. This will ensure that you receive personalized attention and have the opportunity to try on a variety of dresses before making your decision.

Here are some of the best places to get a wedding dress in Aberdeenshire:

Ivory Grace - Ivory Grace is a little different, our approach to bridal styling is fresh and modern and we offer you a laid back, relaxed boutique experience with a high level of advice.

Perfect Bridal Rooms - We offer all our clients the highest level of service, great attention to detail and friendly, professional advice, and finally, to ensure that you will leave us a happy, confident and radiant bride, ready to embark on the biggest day of your life. Our philosophy has always been simple, to bring beautiful bridal and occasionwear to Aberdeen and North of Scotland in luxurious and relaxed surroundings.

Blush Bridal - When a bride-to-be visits Fraserburgh’s Blush Bridal boutique searching for the perfect gown, she can be assured the full attention of Diane and her team. Blush Bridal operate on an appointment basis to ensure a totally private and exclusive service, with each bride having the undivided attention of her own dedicated consultant. Our bridal suites are fitted to be both luxurious and comfortable allowing our brides to have space and time to try our beautiful wedding and bridesmaid dresses by Enzoani, Morilee, Justin Alexander, Ronald Joyce, Madi Lane Bridal, Boho Bride, True Curves, Aphrodite Collection, Casablanca Bridal, Victoria Jane and True Bride.

Midnight Elegance - We offer a stunning range of wedding dresses from leading designers which include San Patrick by Pronovias, Justin Alexander, Kenneth Winston, Morilee by Madeline Gardner, Adrianna Papell, Art Couture, Sincerity, Sweetheart and Eternity Bride. We have an extensive selection of prom, bridesmaids and flower girl dresses together with tiaras, veils and jewellery to complement the bride and her bridal party.

Lillia Bridal - At Lillia Bridal, we value the personal experience of every bride. We are an independent and family run Bridal Suite and offer one to one appointments where you are our sole focus, exclusively to the Aberdeen area.

From our Bridal Suite, we offer a range of beautiful wedding gowns featuring both contemporary and classic designs to ensure that you will be able to find the perfect dress for your special day, in an environment which is relaxing and non-pressured.

The best wedding catering companies in Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire is home to many catering companies that specialize in weddings.

Here are some of the best wedding catering companies in the area:

Kate’s Bespoke Catering - Kate's Bespoke Catering is an award-winning wedding catering company based in Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen & Deeside, offering its services throughout Scotland. These talented culinary specialists strive to create memorable dining experiences for momentous occasions. Owner Kate has been working in the catering industry since 2017 and approaches each event with creativity, imagination, and style. Whether you're hosting an indoor get-together or an outdoor celebration, the dedicated team will ensure you have a delectable meal that will please all palates.

Smart Cuisine - Located a short distance from Aberdeen, we are a premium caterer with over 25 years’ experience in catering high-end weddings and functions. All menus are specifically designed with your desires and specifications in mind. No set menus, only what you want and desire! The team at Smart Cuisine have a wealth of experience creating a whole range of different types of menus and flavors.

Thistle Catering Services - Thistle Catering Services is an award-winning company based in Aberdeen that offers bespoke wedding and event catering solutions for a variety of special occasions and parties. They serve all kinds of venue settings, ranging from marquees to country houses to private homes, all across the UK. Thistle Catering Services caters weddings, private and corporate events.

Harry Fraser Catering - Harry Fraser Catering Services Limited is proud to be the North East of Scotland's preferred caterer. From your first contact with them, their dedicated team will be on hand to help you make the right choices with the menu and wines. They can even provide assistance with a venue, florists, and entertainment ideas. The friendly and helpful team will be more than happy to help you in any way they can.

Getting a wedding cake in Aberdeenshire

There are numerous well-known cake designers and bakeries in Aberdeenshire that specialize in crafting exquisite wedding cakes.

Here are some of the best places to get a wedding cake made in Aberdeenshire:

Pattie-Cakes - Wedding cakes have been an important tradition in weddings since ages. Since then cakes have been the centrepiece of wedding receptions. If you want your wedding also to be one of those ones with a beautiful and perfect cake as the centrepiece, then you must try Pattie-Cakes. Their each order is made from using fresh and authentic ingredients that are sourced from local suppliers.

Hey Sugar Cake Studio - Working from my gorgeous studio in Fyvie I cover all areas across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire and parts of Moray. With 6 years experience in business and making beautiful cakes I have honed my skills to bring you beautiful and delicious cake in every slice. I love to work with you to create something unique and will invite you to enjoy an in-person consultation at my studio where you can also sample some yummy cake flavours. Of course you can try before you buy too and sample boxes are available separately.

Cake Corner - This business understands that the wedding cake is an incredibly important part of your special day. They are a well-known cake supplier whose personal and friendly service, from a one to one consultation with you to the delivery and set-up on the day-of, covers every cake-related aspect. By providing a beautiful centrepiece for your celebration, you will not only have a great memory of your big day but also have your dream cake brought to life, precisely made with all your specifications.

Pam Rennie Cake Design - Pam Rennie Cake Design is a wedding and special occasion bakery in Banchory, Aberdeen & Deeside. This company loves to create unique, stylish, clean-lined occasion cakes, just like each couple. It is essential that your cake not only looks stunning on the outside but by using the freshest ingredients, the inside tastes just as impressive. Pam uses tried and tested recipes to offer flavors you can simply fall in love with each bite. Every cake is as unique to Pam as the one before, so she would love to help you create the Wedding Cake of your dreams.

Cakes by Louise Lang - At Cakes by Louise Lang, they are passionate about creating luxury elegant wedding cakes to make your day that little bit extra special. Finalist for National Cupcake Championship as well as for Netmums Favourite Party Supplier, you will be guaranteed that your cake will taste as good and delicious as it looks. With excellent attention to detail, only your own imagination can limit you in having the cake of your dreams.

The best hotels in Aberdeenshire

These are just a few of the top hotels in Aberdeenshire, each offering its own unique atmosphere and amenities. Depending on your preferences and budget, you're likely to find a hotel that suits your needs for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in the area.

Here are some of the best hotels in Aberdeenshire:

Marcliffe Hotel and Spa - Located in Aberdeen, the Marcliffe Hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel known for its elegant accommodations, impeccable service, and award-winning cuisine. It's a popular choice for weddings, special events, and romantic getaways.

Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course - Situated in Oldmeldrum, this four-star hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Set amidst stunning countryside, it features a championship golf course, stylish rooms, and a renowned restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine.

Macdonald Pittodrie House - This four-star hotel is set within a historic castle near Inverurie. Guests can enjoy elegant rooms with period features, picturesque grounds, and facilities such as a restaurant, bar, and leisure club.

The Fife Arms - Located in Braemar, The Fife Arms is a unique luxury hotel that combines traditional Scottish hospitality with contemporary design and world-class art collections. Each room is individually designed, and the hotel features multiple dining options, a bar, and a gallery.

Ardoe House Hotel & Spa - Nestled on the banks of the River Dee, Ardoe House is a grand Victorian mansion offering five-star accommodations and extensive leisure facilities, including a spa, swimming pool, and tennis courts.

The Chester Hotel - Situated in Aberdeen's west end, The Chester Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel known for its chic interiors, comfortable rooms, and excellent dining options. It's an ideal choice for travelers seeking a blend of luxury and modern amenities.

Malmaison Aberdeen - This boutique hotel is housed within a converted granite warehouse in the heart of Aberdeen's city center. It offers stylish rooms, a trendy bar, and a brasserie serving classic dishes with a contemporary twist.

Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House Hotel & Spa - Another excellent option in Aberdeen, this four-star hotel combines historic charm with modern comforts. Guests can unwind in the spa, enjoy fine dining at the restaurant, and explore the hotel's beautiful gardens.

Aberdeenshire offers a picturesque and romantic setting for couples wanting to get married, with a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences. The Aberdeenshire countryside is known for its natural beauty, with rolling hills, rugged coastline, and picturesque landscapes. Many wedding venues offer stunning views and outdoor ceremony locations, allowing couples to exchange vows surrounded by nature. Above all, Aberdeenshire offers couples a warm Scottish welcome and genuine hospitality. Whether they're exchanging vows in a grand ballroom or saying "I do" on a windswept cliff overlooking the North Sea, couples can expect to be treated with warmth, kindness, and hospitality throughout their wedding journey in Aberdeenshire.