Tips for Your Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding
Planning your perfect small wedding in the heart of the city? Here's what you need to know.
As a photographer who has captured many beautiful moments at Edinburgh City Chambers, I’ve come to truly love this venue for small, intimate weddings. With its grand interiors, historic charm, and unbeatable location on the Royal Mile, it’s ideal for couples who want a meaningful day with just their closest people (or even just the two of you).
If you're thinking about saying “I do” here, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your Edinburgh City Chambers wedding.
1. Book Your Ceremony in Advance
The City Chambers is a popular choice for couples getting married in Edinburgh, especially for weekday and elopement-style weddings. It's best to contact the Edinburgh Registration Office well in advance to secure your preferred date and time. They offer both civil and humanist ceremonies in elegant rooms that suit small groups perfectly.
2. Keep Your Guest List Intimate
The rooms at City Chambers are beautifully styled but not huge — they’re perfect for elopements, micro weddings, or gatherings with 10–30 guests. Fewer guests means a more personal atmosphere, and you’ll have more time to connect with each person during your day.
3. Allow Time for Portraits Afterwards
You’re right in the heart of Edinburgh, which means you're just steps away from stunning locations for wedding portraits. After your ceremony, we can wander down the Royal Mile, find hidden closes, or head up to Calton Hill or Princes Street Gardens for breathtaking views of the city. I usually recommend setting aside 30–45 minutes after the ceremony just for relaxed portraits.
4. Consider the Light & Time of Day
If you're having a morning or early afternoon ceremony, you’ll benefit from softer natural light for portraits. Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, so bringing an umbrella and choosing flexible locations for photos is always a good idea (I know plenty of sheltered spots that still feel magical!).
5. Dress for the City
Whether you're wearing a flowing gown, a sharp suit, or something more laid-back, think about comfort — especially with Edinburgh’s cobblestone streets and occasional gusty winds! Comfortable shoes or a second pair for walking around the city is always a smart choice.
6. Make It Your Own
Even with a short ceremony and a small guest list, you can still make the day feel entirely yours. Bring a favourite song, write your own vows, carry a bouquet with flowers that mean something to you, or plan a quiet celebratory lunch at a cosy local restaurant afterwards.
7. Choose a Photographer Who Knows the Area
As someone who has photographed many weddings at Edinburgh City Chambers, I know the best hidden corners for portraits, how to work with the changing light, and how to keep things relaxed and enjoyable. My 2-hour package is designed to cover everything you need — from the ceremony to beautiful post-wedding portraits — with a sneak peek within 48 hours and your full gallery delivered within a week.
Ready to Plan Your Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding?
I’d love to capture your day in a way that feels natural, beautiful, and true to you. Whether you’re eloping just the two of you, or gathering a handful of your favourite people, let’s make something meaningful together.
📩 Get in touch here to check availability and find out more about my 2-hour City Chambers wedding package.