Madonna's wedding attracted interest in the Highlands

The move, which follows an extensive consultation programme, could lead to Scotland marketing itself as a destination for couples wanting to tie the knot in style.

Flanked by deputy parliament minister Euan Robson, Mr Wallace said: "Couples opting for a religious marriage have long been free to select any location for their wedding, providing their chosen 'celebrant' has agreed.

"Ministers, priests, imams and other authorised 'celebrants' have therefore performed marriage ceremonies in castles and hotels, as well as churches.

"However, couples choosing a civil ceremony have been limited to picking one of Scotland's 247 registration offices. The executive's proposals do away with this anomaly and would enable more couples to select a different but suitable venue in which to celebrate their special day."

Freedom of choice

Mr Robson said he was pleased the executive had brought forward proposals to extend the choice of marriage.

Registry offices are the only places where civil marriage services are allowed in Scotland - even though religious weddings can take place almost anywhere.

Church of Scotland ministers can decide for themselves where a wedding can take place, and many couples choose to tie the knot in a hotel or a special location close to their heart.

The white paper spelled out moves aimed at giving the same freedom of choice to those who do not want a religious ceremony.

Jim Wallace: Bid to remove marriage limitations

That could open the way for Scotland to market itself as a marriage destination.

Scotland's potential as a wedding destination was placed in the international spotlight last December when pop star Madonna and film director Guy Ritchie were married in the Highlands.

The wedding at Skibo Castle generated an estimated �2.5m for the Sutherland area.

A special website was also launched by visitscotland to capitalise on the interest generated by the wedding, offering couples details of castles, hotels and beauty spots - as well as legal and religious requirements.

Last month Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler married Kerrie Ann Hannon at Duns Castle in the Scottish Borders.

The Scottish Executive intends to introduce the Marriage (Scotland) Bill as soon as possible after the close of the consultation period.