Cont.

The resulting attentiveness of owners and staff, who often become trusted friends to their wedding clients, appeals greatly to couples concerned about the amount of organisation involved.

Often the owners are also the wedding co-ordinators (others employ a specialist) and experience in the field has allowed them to build up reliable contacts for local suppliers. The advantage (other than the recommendation) is that individuals, such as florists and photographers, familiar with working at the venue will potentially provide a slicker, less time consuming service. It's useful for example, if the cake maker doesn't have too far to travel with deliveries, although you're rarely bound to using the venueÕs recommended names.

And, while far removed from the rush of city life, country houses and stately homes often remain incredibly accessible to it. One of Scotland's great advantages is the proximity between centres of concentrated population and vast stretches of open country. You're rarely far from a major road link, so guests should be able to travel without too many problems - but do provide directions with the invitations if you think theyÕd be useful!

The relative seclusion of these settings combines with elegance oft inherent in their meticulously groomed grounds, grand entranceways and period features. Some of those staircases were made for dramatic entrances while more modern structures may have their own attractions, such as large extensions and conservatories where ceremonies, taking in superb rural perspectives, may be held.

Our online directory contains around 500 venues displaying what's on offer throughout Scotland its easy to use and you may want to take advantage of the enquiry service so you can draw up your own shortlist. Efficient establishments should be more than happy to discuss your requirements, so start looking now to find the key to your own hidden treasure. At the top of that driveway there is the choice for you - housing all that is needed to make your wedding day as perfect as its pristine appearance.

Image: Hopetoun House 0131 331 2451