Two male adults and three children waving and celebrating

Planning a ceremony and COVID-19: what you need to know

August 9, 2021

Ceremonies

Scotland moves beyond Level 0 from 9th August 2021, and ceremonies now have much fewer restrictions. Some restrictions still remain though and we still need to exercise caution.

Face coverings remain mandatory* at all ceremonies in indoor public places, and celebrants need to maintain 1m distance from the couple or family and those in attendance, unless they are behind a screen or wearing a face covering. This will continue to restrict a celebrant’s ability to be physically involved in certain symbolic gestures during weddings and civil partnerships and namings.

*unless you are exempt, under 12, the celebrant, the couple in the case of a wedding or civil partnership, or while accompanying them down the aisle.

There are no restrictions on physical distancing for those in attendance, although it is still advised. Some venues or crematoria may therefore continue to observe distancing where space allows. You should check the maximum capacity with your venue or crematorium.

The Scottish Government’s marriage and civil partnership guidance has been removed. However, specific reference to marriages and civil partnerships is now included in the Tourism and Hospitality guidance.