City weddings

Getting married is about personal taste. If your preference is for the fast pace of city life - with little affection for the peace of the countryside - why pretend otherwise? The lights, life and soul of Scotland's cities complement a vibrant wedding day.

Under the umbrella of 'city weddings' there is perhaps the greatest diversity of choice - it's a case of narrowing down the inspiring options. But in considering museums, galleries, boutique hotels, restored period buildings, trendy arts centres, racecourses and football stadiums, decisions may be tricky to reach. Match your tastes and practical needs to the location. City venues possess a consciousness of style that combines with individual moods in each - perhaps historical, artistic, strikingly contemporary or sporting.

You may be drawn to a favourite boutique hotel yet are not aware of the possibilities, pondering a champagne reception in a cool, contemporary interior followed by an intimate dinner in 'designer' surrounds. Art buffs may relish a marriage in a light-filled gallery while smaller receptions find warmth in funky, friendly restaurants. And the historically minded will be overwhelmed by the opportunity to wander amongst Scotland's finest exhibits on their special day. You can even opt for the best of both worlds with a 'country house' located deceptively within quieter city pockets.

You'll have to choose the city too: from Edinburgh's historical grandeur to the restless energy of Glasgow's streets, Scotland's two major cities are just the start. Aberdeen's sparkling granite or finely rejuvenated areas of Dundee arev just as enticing, as is the central location and history of Stirling.

Nothing beats a good look round potential options. Ask yourself roughly what direction you want to take (instinct is your guide as to whether a football stadium or museum is a good staring point) and start investigating. A consultation with wedding co-ordinators of short listed venues should create a picture of what's possible, but have questions ready. It's easy to be distracted by the beauty of the place, forgetting all about practical needs.

The wedding size - and hence venue capacity - affects choice as will your preference for ceremony location: will you exchange vows within the reception venue? Check if the venue holds a civil license, vital if you want a non-religious marriage out with a registry office. Consider if the space is suitable for the reception style - is there a dance floor, for example? If it's a large reception, rooms designed for this purpose are best, fully equipped with facilities.