For the first time in 135 years, couples will be marrying over the famous Gretna Green anvil on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.
There will be “a small select number of festive weddings in a Covid-19-safe environment, following all necessary restrictions and guidance set by the Scottish Government.”
The Gretna Green team said they wanted to “give back and help couples fulfil their dreams of marrying and celebrating Christmas in a new way” after all the disruption suffered by loved-up couples during the pandemic.
Michelle Hall, head of wedding sales, said: “Our couples who have chosen to marry with us over this festive period are delighted.
“It is something positive to look forward to after a challenging year, being able to end their year on a high and go into a new year as a married couple full of excitement and hope for the future. The wedding team at Gretna Green are all so happy that they have been able to help our couples realise their dreams of marrying at Christmas in a safe and secure way.”
The “auld clay daubbin” blacksmith’s shop – renowned for its romantic history as a haven for runaway lovers since the Marriage Act of 1754 was bought by Hugh Mackie, in 1885, as part of the Gretna Estate, which included farming land and the tiny hamlet of Gretna Green.
His great-grandson, Alasdair Houston is the fourth generation of the family to lead the enterprise at Scotland’s marriage mecca as chairman of Gretna Green Ltd.
Describing it as “a Christmas like no other,” he said: “With so much uncertainty over 2020, we wanted an extra special Christmas and to allow our couples to celebrate their love at this very special time of year.”
“As a family business, we know and understand the importance of family, and the milestones in life which add to their own story.”
