Planning a Wedding in East Lothian: Your Step-by-Step Guide
From coastal views to countryside charm, East Lothian is the perfect place to say “I do.” This guide walks you through every step of planning your dream wedding—just outside Edinburgh. Whether you're newly engaged or deep into planning, this comprehensive guide will give you clarity, inspiration, and useful links to make the journey smooth and joyful.
Why East Lothian is a Dream Wedding Destination
East Lothian combines rustic charm with modern amenities, making it a favourite among couples who want something truly special. Unlike city venues, here you'll find expansive gardens, restored historic buildings, and coastlines that serve as unforgettable backdrops for your wedding photos. The region is also home to a variety of independent suppliers who bring warmth and creativity to your event.
Beyond the visuals, East Lothian provides flexibility in scheduling and cost. With slightly less competition for popular dates than city venues, couples can often secure their ideal season and timing. Local regulations for marriage ceremonies are straightforward, and registrars work closely with venues like Eskmills to create seamless and meaningful experiences.
Choosing the Right Venue
Your choice of venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. In East Lothian, options range from grand estates and charming barns to stylish venues like Eskmills in Musselburgh. A good venue should align with your guest count, desired ceremony style, and the level of support you need from the events team.
Some couples prioritise all-inclusive packages with catering, furniture, lighting, and coordination bundled together. Others want a more hands-on experience and prefer dry hire or external vendor flexibility. It's important to clarify your expectations upfront and ask about exclusive use, access times, and contingency plans for weather.
- Licensed for civil, humanist and symbolic ceremonies
- Options for indoor and outdoor spaces
- Capacity from 70 to 350 guests
- Full planning support and coordination included
- Customisable decor and flexible scheduling
Top Tips for East Lothian Wedding Planning
Planning a wedding involves many moving parts, but East Lothian offers a calm and supportive environment for organising your big day. Use these tips to streamline your process:
- ✅ Book your venue 12–18 months in advance, especially for summer dates
- ✨ Consider twilight or off-season weddings for unique ambience and value
- 👀 Visit venues in person — Open Days help you visualise your day
- 🏨 Arrange local accommodation or transport for guests from Edinburgh
- 📖 Create a shared digital planning doc with your vendors and venue
Make sure to coordinate your timeline with suppliers early. Check whether your chosen caterer or band requires special access or additional setup time. Build in buffers for hair and makeup, photography sessions, and travel between locations.
Local Suppliers & Caterers
One of the advantages of choosing East Lothian is access to high-quality, friendly, and professional wedding suppliers. Many venues, including Eskmills, work with a curated list of trusted partners who are familiar with the layout, logistics, and expectations of the space.
- 🍽 Saltire Hospitality – Elegant multi-course menus with Scottish flair
- 🥗 Jo's Kitchen – Personalised menus for relaxed and modern weddings
- 🍰 Really Delicious Catering – Creative, bespoke event dining experiences
Photography, floristry, stationery, and entertainment options are all well-represented in the region. It's common for couples to include personal touches like handfasting ceremonies, piper-led processions, or locally sourced table decor. Ask your venue if they offer storage for decor or recommend suppliers who can deliver and set up on-site.
See more about food and drink options on our Food & Drink page.
How to Travel from Edinburgh
One of the best parts about choosing East Lothian is that you get a peaceful, scenic location without sacrificing convenience. Many guests attending weddings at Eskmills Venue travel from Edinburgh by train, car, or local taxi.
- 🚗 Free on-site parking available at most venues
- 🚉 Direct train service from Edinburgh Waverley to Musselburgh Station (15 mins)
- 🚖 Local taxis and bus lines serve the area frequently
If you have out-of-town guests, consider block-booking rooms at nearby hotels in Musselburgh, Prestonpans, or North Berwick. Providing a list of transport options and travel times in your wedding invitations or website can make the experience smoother for everyone.
Popular Wedding Dates & Seasons
Each season offers a unique atmosphere and aesthetic for your East Lothian wedding. Here’s what to expect depending on when you plan to tie the knot:
- 🌸 Spring: Fresh blooms, longer days, and mild weather. Ideal for garden ceremonies.
- ☀️ Summer: Peak wedding season. Great for outdoor events and sunset photo ops.
- 🍁 Autumn: Rich colours, crisp air, and dramatic backdrops. A photographer’s dream.
- ❄️ Winter: Perfect for twilight weddings with fairy lights and cosy interiors.
Think about lighting conditions, guest attire, and floral availability when choosing your date. Venues like Eskmills offer seasonal packages that include decor changes, heating or cooling systems, and weather-adaptive plans for outdoor ceremonies.
Ready to Plan Your East Lothian Wedding?
Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right venue, experienced suppliers, and a solid plan, your East Lothian wedding can be everything you imagined. Start by exploring our wedding packages or book a tour to see Eskmills Venue for yourself. We're here to help you make it unforgettable.
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