Planning Your Islay Elopement Checklist

Islay is made for elopements. There's something about this island - the wild coastlines, the sense of escape, the way time seems to slow down - that makes it perfect for couples who want to marry in their own way, on their own terms.

As a wedding photographer based right here on Islay, I've had the honour of capturing intimate elopement stories all over this incredible island. I've created this checklist based on extensive experience of real elopements - so it's practical, local, and full of insider knowledge that can make a big difference.

Whether you're from the UK, Europe, or travelling from across the globe for a destination elopement, this checklist is here to help you keep your plans on track.

What Makes Elopement Planning Different

Elopements are wonderfully simple - no guest lists, no seating plans, no evening entertainment to coordinate. You can focus entirely on what matters: the two of you, the ceremony, and celebrating in your own way. This checklist covers the essentials while keeping planning stress-free and intimate.

Timeline at a Glance

• 6-12 months before: Book registrar, photographer, accommodation

• 3-6 months before: Secure suppliers, plan details, legal paperwork

• 1 month before: Confirm bookings, pack, finalise timeline

• Week of: Arrive on Islay, collect documents, relax and enjoy

1. Getting Started

6-12 months before

Choose your date

Check ferry schedules (CalMac typically releases timetables 4-6 months weeks in advance for summer sailings) and island events to make sure accommodation is available before booking anything.

Book your registrar

Contact Argyll and Bute Council registrars early to secure your date and start the paperwork process. If you're coming from overseas, start this process early as additional documentation may be required.

Book your ceremony location

From dramatic clifftops to secluded coves and unique hotels - Islay has something for every taste. If you can't find your dream location, chat to me and I'll use my local knowledge to help you find the perfect spot.

Hire your photographer

(That's me!) I book up quickly - aim to book 6-12 months ahead for summer elopements. If you like my work, let's chat early to secure your date.

Consider elopement insurance

Especially important for island elopements where weather can affect ferries. Look for policies covering travel disruption and supplier issues. Elopement insurance tends to cover some more specifics than your standard travel insurance, so it’s worth a look,

Arrange witnesses

You'll need two witnesses for your legal ceremony. These can be friends, family members you've invited to join you, or even locals you meet on the island. I'm happy to be a witness if needed.

2. Planning the Details

3-6 months before

Reserve accommodation

Islay has limited capacity, so book your accommodation early. Whether it's a luxury hotel, cosy B&B, or self-catering cottage, securing this early gives you peace of mind.

Plan transport

Confirm ferries or flights, and local taxis if needed. CalMac releases ferry timetables typically 12 weeks in advance - sign up to their mailing list to get schedules as soon as they're released.

Have a ferry contingency plan

Check weather forecasts 2-3 days before travel. If rough weather is forecast, consider travelling a day early. Keep CalMac's number handy and have backup flight options researched just in case.

Secure your suppliers (if desired)

Elopements are wonderfully flexible - you might want:

• Restaurant reservation for a celebration meal

• Florist for bouquet and buttonhole

• Hair and makeup artist (optional)

Many are in high demand during peak seasons, so book ahead if you'd like these touches.

Choose and buy your outfits

Plan time for fittings and final adjustments, especially if you're travelling from further afield and bringing your outfits to Islay. Think about a second outfit for any evening celebrations, especially if you've been to an Islay beach earlier in the day.

Choose your wedding rings

Enjoy shopping for your wedding bands together.

Write your vows

If you're writing personal vows, start drafting them now while you have time to reflect and refine.

Plan your ceremony details

Work with your registrar on:

• Timings

• Readings (if desired)

• Paperwork requirements

• Witness arrangements

• Meeting to discuss the ceremony structure

Identify weather backup options If you're planning an outdoor ceremony, confirm indoor or sheltered alternatives. I can suggest beautiful backup locations if needed.

Plan your post-ceremony celebration

This is your time to savour being married! Whether it's a special meal at one of Islay's excellent restaurants, a private whisky tasting, a boat tour, or simply watching the sunset with a dram on the beach - plan something that feels right for you.

Plan what happens after

Research and book your dream honeymoon or minimoon. Or enjoy the magic of Islay for longer and stay on the island for a few days or a week after your ceremony.

Collect legal paperwork

You'll need to submit your M10 marriage notice form (the official notice of intent to marry in Scotland) to the local registry office (Argyll and Bute Council) no sooner than 3 months before your elopement, and no later than 29 days prior. If you're coming from overseas, start this process early as additional documentation may be required.

3. Final Preparations

1 month before

Finalise bookings

Confirm timings and any special requests with your suppliers (if you have any).

Confirm photography details

When I'm your photographer, this is when we'll fine-tune your timeline, key moments, and any special photo requests.

Check all arrangements

Confirm transport, accommodation, and timings for the day.

Pack for all seasons

Islay weather is famously unpredictable. Bring wellies and waterproofs, but don't forget your sunglasses! Pack layers and be prepared for anything.

4. The Week of Your Elopement - You're on Islay!

Relax and enjoy the island

Make this a priority! Let the pace of Islay help you slow down and soak in every moment. Trust your team and be fully present.

Collect legal documents

Pick up your marriage schedule from the local registry office - you'll need this on the day.

Visit your ceremony location

Especially for beach elopements, visit the spot beforehand to choose exactly where you'll stand, check the terrain, and visualise how everything will work. Check tide times if relevant.

Check the weather forecast

It can change quickly! Confirm your weather backup plan if needed (and maybe pack some sunscreen too).

Confirm with your photographer and suppliers

Double-check times and locations with me (hopefully your photographer!) and any other suppliers you've booked.

Rings and vows - final check

Put them somewhere safe and make sure they're packed and ready for the day.

Prep your outfits

Hang up your outfits, steam if needed, organise shoes and accessories.

Get an early night

You'll want to be well-rested for the big day, so get to bed early.

5. Your Elopement Day - What to Expect

Morning

Relaxed preparation - getting ready together or separately, however feels right for you.

Ceremony

Usually 15-30 minutes with your registrar and witnesses. Intimate, meaningful, and entirely focused on the two of you.

Couple portraits

30-60 minutes exploring stunning Islay locations. This isn't a stiff photoshoot - it's an adventure together while I capture beautiful, natural images.

Celebration

However you've chosen to mark the occasion - a special meal, a dram on the beach, a whisky tasting, or simply being together in this incredible place.

Evening

Relax and enjoy being married! Soak in the reality of what you've just done, in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

6. After the Elopement

Collect the marriage schedule

The registrars will keep you right on this one and will let you know when it can be collected.

Receive your photos

I'll send a sneak peek within 48 hours of your elopement, and your full gallery will follow within 6-8 weeks.

Thank your witnesses and suppliers

A quick thank you or acknowledgement of their support in celebrating with you is a lovely touch.

Enjoy being married!

Take time to look through your photos together, relive the memories, and settle into married life.

Ready to Start Planning Your Islay Elopement?

Eloping to Islay is all about slowing down, tuning into what truly matters, and choosing a place that speaks to your hearts. I hope this checklist has helped you feel more prepared, inspired, and excited for the beautiful adventure ahead.

Whether it's just the two of you on a windswept beach or a couple of your favourite people beside you as witnesses, your elopement deserves to be unforgettable.

If you're looking for an experienced elopement photographer on Islay to capture the story as it unfolds naturally, I'd love to be part of it. Feel free to get in touch to check availability, ask questions, or chat through ideas - I'm always happy to help.

Let's create something magical, simple, and truly yours - right here on Islay.