Host your alternative wedding at Mackays Hotel

Mackays Hotel in Wick in the stunning Scottish Highlands, is the perfect wedding venue for couples seeking something extra special for their big day. Our beautiful setting, combined with our excellent service, makes for an unforgettable wedding experience. If you’re considering an alternative wedding, look no further than Mackays Hotel.

Traditional vs Alternative wedding

Traditional weddings are single-day events filled with customs and rituals. They usually follow a standard format of, ceremony, cocktail hour and reception. While couples can add personal touches, traditional weddings generally stick to a set formula influenced by culture and religion.

At Mackays Hotel, we understand that many couples wish to break away from tradition and celebrate their love in unique ways. Here are some fantastic alternative wedding options that we can accommodate.

Elopements and micro weddings

Elopements and micro weddings are perfect for couples who want an intimate celebration. With fewer than 30 guests, these weddings are about creating meaningful moments with your closest family and friends. Mackays Hotel offers a beautiful highland location for your ceremony and reception, ensuring a personal and memorable experience, no matter how many guests you have.

Small and dog-friendly weddings

Small weddings, with 30 to 60 guests, offer a cosy and intimate atmosphere. Our venue is perfect for these gatherings, giving you a calm setting for your special day. We tailor our wedding packages to each couple’s needs, ensuring that every detail is perfect. Plus we are a dog-friendly hotel and wedding venue so why not bring your pooch along to your special day?

Off-season winter weddings

The Scottish Highlands are stunning in winter, offering a magical backdrop for your wedding. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by snowy mountains and cosying up with your loved ones by the fire during your reception. Mackays also has a delightful whisky bar that your guests can enjoy. It is stocked with local whiskies and other wonderful drinks and liquors. A winter wedding at Mackays Hotel is a unique and romantic way to celebrate your love.

Scotland destination weddings

Contrary to popular belief, destination weddings don’t need to be far away. They just need to be held somewhere other than the couple’s home. Our location in Wick, Scotland offers a beautiful and accessible destination, combining the charm of the Scottish Highlands with our top-notch hospitality.

Long weekend weddings

While many destination weddings become wedding weekends, you can also host a longer wedding celebration at Mackays Hotel. Imagine a full weekend of celebrations, including welcome dinners, ceremonies, receptions and farewell brunches. Mackays Hotel can help you plan a seamless and joyful wedding weekend.

All cultures and traditions

We welcome couples of all cultures and traditions at Mackays. We can host Asian weddings, which typically last three days, including pre-wedding rituals, the main ceremony and a grand reception. Our ballroom can accommodate up to 150 seated guests and up to 220 for an evening reception, making it an ideal venue for your celebrations.

Humanist, interfaith and spiritual ceremonies

We are proud to host various types of ceremonies, including humanist, interfaith and spiritual weddings. These ceremonies allow couples to celebrate their union in a way that reflects their personal beliefs and values.

Plan your alternative wedding at Mackays Hotel

At Mackays Hotel, we pride ourselves on creating bespoke weddings. Our wedding packages can include ceremony room hire, wedding breakfast and evening reception, with catering and drinks. We also offer a beautiful bridal suite and a 20% discount on overnight stays for guests. Our expert wedding planner will coordinate with local suppliers for entertainment, decorations and flowers, ensuring stress-free planning. If sustainability is a priority, we are a sustainable wedding venue with access to eco-friendly local suppliers.

Contact our venue in Wick today to start planning your alternative wedding. We look forward to celebrating your unique day and creating unforgettable memories with you!