Our December-January issue is out now and you can read it online for free

As the temperature drops, fire up your wedding plans with our wintry December-January issue that’s filled with heart-warming real-wedding stories, cosy venues and smokin’ hot wedding inspiration. See the digital issue here without venturing into the chill (or spending a penny)

Tie the Knot Scotland issue 71 feature montage

Our latest edition flies the flag for the wealth of talented, bespoke bridal designers and independent accessory makers based here in Scotland. Our ‘Country Strong’ feature shows the wealth of incredible wedding fashion available on our doorsteps and includes meet-and-greets with a selection of the sector’s leading lights (including Joyce Young Design Studios whose dress features on the cover.) They are all local heroes in our eyes.

Kavelle Couture lace wedding trouser and crop top and Baba C Designs crystal and pearl headpiece
In our Scottish bridal designers special, we chat to the talents behind Edinburgh bridal studio Kavelle Couture (left) and Glasgow accessory maker Baba-C Designs (right) among others

Ever wondered if wedding shop staff play dress-up when no-one’s watching? Well, this time we asked them to slip into one of their favourite gowns for the coming year and sent a photographer along to capture them. We think you’ll love the results. We also hear from grooms’ outfitters about how they’re making the shopping experience safe for all.

Amy King Bridal and Beauty Rosie wedding dress by Rebecca Ingram
Amy King Bridal and Beauty in Kirkcaldy asked a gorgeous friend to put on the Rosie wedding dress by Rebecca Ingram and play model for the morning for our boutique photoshoot (Photo: Jodie Mann at PennMann Creates)

Talking of which, the spectre of Covid-19 continues to play havoc with many couples’ plans. Under the Scottish Government’s tiered approach, it realistically looks like numbers for weddings will be capped at 20 until at least early 2021 (only tier 0 allows 50 guests) and – no matter the size of party – it seems safer for all involved to keep as much of the day outside as possible. Wrap up warm as we ask venues if it’s doable to say ‘I do’ outdoors, even when the mercury plummets.

If, like many, you are over postponing and just want to do it, this issue also reveals how and where to elope. We hear from one pair who ran away to the Isle of Skye after their previous venue folded and another duo who wanted to elope – but didn’t in the end. Even if you can’t have your nearest and dearest around you, technology can allow them to join in virtually. We investigate the merits of streaming your wedding ceremony and tell you how it’s done.

Fuze Ceremonies trades hall streamed wedding
Mariella Ricchezza and Rob McEwan married at the Trades Hall in Glasgow on 29th August 2020, with Tyler the dog in attendance and Fuze Ceremonies and We Stream It on streaming duties (Photo: Audrey Russell Photography)

As you’d expect, our real weddings section features some couples who have been affected by the pandemic. Jess and Hector had to postpone their plans and cut their guest list for their wedding at Glen Clova in Angus. Their laid-back, last-minute nature meant they hadn’t booked many suppliers before lockdown, meaning no lost deposits! We also chat to another couple who only got the go-ahead for their intimate October ceremony and dinner at Norton House Hotel two days ahead of time. We can stop making heart-eyes at the autumnal trees in their wedding pics.

Glen Clova Hotel Covid bohemian wedding by Natalie Holt Photography and Iris Art Photography autumn wedding of older couple at Norton House Hotel
(Left) Jess and Hector married in a smaller ceremony than planned at Glen Clova. Photography by Natalie Holt Photography (Right) Karen and Graham surrounded by glorious autumn colours at Norton House Hotel. Photography by Iris Art Photography

Pick up the December-January issue at larger supermarkets and selected retailers, read it here for free or treat yourself to a subscription for just £18.­