Rona Burstow, a celebrant with Humanist Society Scotland, loves when her couples marry outside – in fact, 80% of her ceremonies take place in the great outdoors. Here, Rona explains how she’ll give you the freedom to make your wedding ceremony magical
Overlooking the glistening Loch Doine near Balquhidder, Rona conducted an unforgettable ceremony. (Photo: Steven Gallagher Photography)
If you’re dreaming of an intimate Scottish elopement filled with meaning, laughter, and breathtaking scenery, Rona from the Isle of Skye might just be the perfect celebrant for you.
A member of the Humanist Society Scotland, Rona brings warmth, humour, and a relaxed approach to every ceremony she leads – whether it’s on a Highland clifftop or inside a castle like Achnagairn.
With a background in weddings and events, and hundreds of ceremonies under her belt, Rona is passionate about helping couples create unforgettable moments that reflect who they truly are.
See more about Humanist Society Scotland here
All about Humanist Society Scotland celebrant, Rona Burstow
I’m a celebrant with Humanist Society Scotland, and it’s the best job ever. I’ve been doing it for almost six years now. Time flies when you’re having fun! I’m based on the Isle of Skye and specialise in wee weddings and elopements – they are my absolute fave.
Rona says it is a privilege to be part of a couple's story and hear their vows. (Photo: Lynne Kennedy Photography)
What made you want to become a celebrant?
My background is in events, and during my time as a wedding coordinator at Eilean Donan Castle I would sit at the top of the stairs and listen to all to the ceremonies. When I witnessed my first humanist ceremony, it had a real impact on me because it was fun, engaging and completely about the couple.
That night, I looked into becoming a humanist celebrant myself. I qualified in 2019 – just in time for a global pandemic! On reflection, this time simply enhanced my love for small weddings, as elopements in Scotland really took off.
How many weddings have you led?
At least 500… maybe 600?! I don’t really keep count. For me, it’s about quality over quantity. The photo gallery on my phone is full of happy newlyweds, and I’m so chuffed to have played a small part in their big day.
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What’s your favourite thing about an elopement in Scotland?
The freedom. There is no pressure and no expectations. It is just a completely grounding and calming experience. It’s the total opposite of a big wedding – there are no rigid timelines and there’s no need to keep others happy.
And, with Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, you don’t even need a venue.
For me, the best part is witnessing the love between two people. It’s such a privilege to be part of their story and hear their vows. It’s like stepping into a whole different world – something you just don’t get in the same way at a big do. Not that I’m against large-scale weddings! But having seen both, I love how relaxed and present my couples are when they elope.
All you need to know to have a Scottish elopement
Almost 80% of Rona's ceremonies take place in the great outdoors – just like this one! (Photo: The Carrels Photography)
What are humanist ceremonies like?
I’d describe them as super-chilled, down-to-earth and informal, with the perfect blend of emotion and good craic. Most of them are small and intimate. Some are full of emotion and happy tears, while others are packed with laughter. It really depends on the couple and their vibe.
Isle of Skye elopements
Being based on the Isle of Skye means I attract adventure-seekers and couples who want to do things a bit differently. I encourage them to step away from traditions and to make the ceremony something that is truly theirs. My top priority is making sure they are relaxed.
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How do couples find the ‘right’ celebrant?
Ask yourselves: Can we see this person standing by our side on one of the biggest days of our lives? Do we actually like them? Could we grab a drink with them? Do we share the same values? It’s so important to have a vibe check first. It’s also fine to shop around.
The Quiraing on the Isle of Skye is a popular location for Scottish elopements – and Rona even hiked up it with this couple for them to say their vows! (Photo: Andrew Rae Photographer)
What’s great about getting married in Scotland?
Everything! Scotland has it all – freedom, beauty, people, passion, castles, mountains… and you can get married anywhere!
Plus, we’re lucky enough to have legally binding humanist ceremonies here, which isn’t the case everywhere.
Where’s your favourite place in Scotland to conduct a ceremony?
I love Achnagairn Castle. The staff are so friendly and welcoming, and it feels dead fancy. That said, I’m happiest outdoors, probably in the rain. I know that’s not for everyone, but tell me you want to marry on a Highland clifftop, and I’m there!
Check out this low-key emotional Glencoe elopement – with wellies, fleeces and atmospheric photos in the rain
Rona believes it is important for couples to do what they want to do on their wedding day. (Photo: The Carrels Photography)
Any stand-out ceremonies?
Oh, so many! But one that sticks out is a sunrise elopement. I left my house at 3am, and the sky was the most incredible pink as the couple, Sophie and Connor, said their vows. Most folk were still in bed and it felt like we had the whole world to ourselves. Then they announced they were having twins! It was such a special moment.
Give us your best piece of advice for engaged couples
Sit down with your partner and really think about what you visualise for your day and what your non-negotiables are. Weddings can get out of control quickly, especially with big families. You’ll never please everyone, so do what you want to do and don’t give in to external pressure.
Quick fire round
I love a quaich. What better way to start your marriage? I’ve seen whisky, tea and even a Jägerbomb in a quaich!
Crikey, that’s a tough one! A lot of my outdoor weddings don’t have music, just the sound of the wind or a piper.
One rogue but unforgettable moment was a couple leaving their ceremony to Kanye West’s ‘Stronger’. We were in an old, redundant church in the Outer Hebrides and it was magic! Blasting Kanye in a place with such religious history felt almost naughty, but hey… that’s a humanist ceremony for you!
Well, I was a wee bit gutted that Georgia Toffolo and James Watt didn’t ask me! Their wedding was right up my street – low-key and simple. Pretty sure I saw some wedding pics of them on a boat, and I had major FOMO!
