Couples from across the world still travel to the Famous Blacksmiths Shop to get married, following a tradition dating back 270 years.
Gretna Green Ltd, which operates the Famous Blacksmiths Shop, has built on that tradition to create an award-winning destination with a visitor attraction, shopping outlets, restaurants, and two four-star hotels.
The business, which has remained in the ownership of the same family for four generations, has successfully retained its famous heritage while looking ahead to the future.
Amy Glendinning, from Gretna Green Ltd said: “The business has been at the heart of Gretna Green and part of local Dumfries and Galloway history for nearly 140 years. Our aim is to offer an excellent experience for visitors who come from all over the world to visit Gretna Green, alongside the marriage services which made Gretna Green famous.”
Amy said operating across a range of sectors including retail, tourism and hospitality meant that it was essential to work with an insurance broker which fully understood the complexities of the business.
“Our business is multifaceted and H&H Insurance Brokers have ensured that we have suitable cover in all aspects of our operations,” she said.
“We have onsite quarterly review meetings with our account executive, Luke Conn-Goodman, which means he understands our business and our needs, and keeps up-to-date with any changes or developments planned for the business.
“As well as having a dedicated account executive, we also have a dedicated claims manager which ensures we are always dealing with the same people who understand our policies. Across the wider team, H&H Insurance Brokers have a broad team of experts, which is particularly important as we embark on a number of major refurbishment projects across our estate.”
Luke said getting to know clients and their businesses was an essential part of the job.
He said: “I have enjoyed getting to know Amy and the whole team at Gretna Green. Understanding my client's business and their current and future needs is always my priority. By taking this time with them, I can tailor my advice to best protect their business. At H&H Insurance Brokers, we pride ourselves on offering modern ‘Old Fashioned Service’ values based on doing the right thing for our clients, first and foremost.”
Gretna Green Ltd has two hotels: Smiths at Gretna Green, a luxury four-star boutique hotel, and the historic Gretna Hall Historic Marriage House, which dates back to 1710 and has three marriage rooms. Couples can choose to get married at the hotels or at the Famous Blacksmiths Shop, with a range of options to suit every budget and weddings of all sizes available.
The Gretna Green Experience visitor attraction offers an insight into how the village became the wedding capital of the UK, and the opportunity to touch the original marriage anvil which is said to bring luck in love.
There are shopping opportunities at the Gretna Green since 1754 store, the Gretna Green Experience Gift Shop, and The Food Hall at Gretna Green, and visitors can dine at the Blacksmiths Food Court and Bar, or explore the sculpture garden and the courtship maze.
The Famous Blacksmiths Shop remains at the heart of the site, with the shops, restaurants and visitor attractions located in and around the courtyard, and both hotels within walking distance.
Gretna Green Ltd also operates the Canny Scot shop on the M74 services between J21 and J22 northbound which sells Scottish-themed gifts.
Amy added: “The team at H&H Insurance Brokers are professional, approachable and accessible and we’re confident we have the right insurance and advice in place as we develop the business for the future.”
Did you know?
Gretna Green became a haven for young lovers following the introduction of the 1754 Marriage Act in England and Wales which made it forbidden for couples to marry without their parents' permission under the age of 21. The young and in love crossed the border into Scotland to elope where it was easier to marry.