Islay Wedding Supplier Spotlight: Gemma Cameron, Registrar

Islay is a wedding location unlike any other. 

This small but mighty Hebridean island is home to dramatic coastlines, ancient ruins, and wide, sweeping beaches that produce stunning wedding photos. It’s also famous for its whisky, and many couples choose to tie the knot in one of the island’s iconic distilleries. But before you book your dream wedding, there’s something else that you need to know.

In Scotland (and on the Isle of Islay), celebrants can officiate beautiful, personalised ceremonies - but only an authorised Registrar can perform the legally binding marriage. That’s where Gemma Cameron comes in.

As Registrar for the District of Islay, Gemma is a trusted and well-loved part of the close-knit Islay wedding community and plays a key role in many of the weddings I photograph. I recently sat down with her for a chat about her role, her favourite wedding memories, and why she thinks couples fall in love with the idea of an Islay Wedding.

Gemma with the lovely couple Jo and Rob at Ardbeg

We asked Gemma a few questions about being a Registrar and getting married on Islay:

Q: Please could you just tell us a little bit about yourself and how long you've been a Registrar?

Gemma: I was born and bred on Islay, and I've lived here all my life. I started working as an assistant Registrar in 2009 and became Registrar for the District of Islay in 2017. 

Q: What's your favourite part of your job?

Gemma: Definitely meeting so many different people from all over the world. It’s amazing how far people travel to get married on Islay - that still amazes me. I also love being part of big life moments, not just weddings but registering births too. 

Q: What has been your favourite Islay wedding (or weddings)?

Gemma: I was wracking my brains as there've been so many amazing ones, it’s hard to pinpoint a couple. Matthew and Lyn’s was a huge one for me. Because it was such strange times as well, like with all the Covid restrictions and it was nice to be able to be part of that. Any of the beach ones too, they’re so beautiful, when the sunshine and weather is on our side it’s beautiful – you can’t beat it really.

Q: What makes Islay such a special place for you?

Gemma: Because I’ve been brought up here and there’s so many beautiful places to visit. There’s still places I’ve not been to, and I’ve been here all my life! So many people come here to visit, but I’m so lucky to call it home.

Q: Do you have a favourite wedding photo that sums up getting married on Islay?

Gemma: One of my favourite ones was with Emily and Matt - just after Covid. It was just the two of them and their wee dog. We get everything here from big family weddings to little elopements, and photos like that just sum up what getting married on Islay can be - simple and intimate.

Emily, Matt and their wee dog enjoyed an intimate ceremony with Gemma

Q: What questions do you get asked most by visiting couples?

Gemma: Usually “Where can we get married” and ”Do we need a wet weather alternative?” That’s something that either you, or a wedding planner, can definitely help with!

Q: Is there any advice you’d give to couples considering getting married on Islay today?

Gemma: Yes - don’t hesitate. Come and get married! We have such beautiful places for ceremonies but also be aware of how busy the island can get. 

Q: What message would you give to couples thinking about having an Argyll and Bute Registrar ceremony?

Gemma: Your ceremony can be exactly what you want it to be. Our role is to take the stress away - we do all the paperwork, we have their schedule, and we organise the marriage certificate. Gone are the days of them turning up and saying a couple of words and it being over. They can say as much or little as they wish. And they can involve other people, if they want 

Q: Personally, what’s your favourite beach on Islay?

Gemma: Kilnaughton, because it looks towards my hometown.

Q: What's the best way for people to get in touch with the Registrar's office?

Gemma: Either call us on 01546 605521 (option 4) or email registrationenquiries@argyll-bute.gov.uk.

Q: One last question just for fun - Whisky, gin, or tea?

Gemma: Gin!

Matt and Emily celebrate

One of the things I love most about being a wedding photographer at My Islay Wedding is getting to work alongside incredible local people like Gemma. If you're dreaming of your own Islay Wedding, you're in good hands. She brings a warmth and calm presence that makes every ceremony feel personal and meaningful, whether it’s a distillery wedding or a barefoot beach elopement.

If you're thinking about getting married on Islay, you won’t just be choosing a location: you'll be choosing an experience steeped in history, heart, and the unique spirit of the island. And with an experienced professional like Gemma guiding you through the legal side of things, your day will be as smooth and stress-free as it is unforgettable.

And if you're still looking for a photographer to capture the magic (and the memories) at your wedding?  I'd love to be part of your day. Get in touch with me at My Islay Wedding or give me call on +44 (0)7789686521.

Lynn and Matthew enjoyed a moment in the Peat Sheds as part of their special day.