Making Marriage More Affordable And Attractive
Following a Law Commission review of the current law governing the restrictions on venue where couples may marry, in 2018, the government of the day commissioned a reform project, leading to recommendations for reform. As such, plans to overhaul outdated wedding laws were announced on 2 October 2025 by our current leaders, which allow the introduction of ceremonies to reflect our changing society.
In particular, regulation will shift from the wedding venue to the officiant, the person who conducts the ceremony, meaning that current restrictions that dictate where the wedding may take place will be removed, subject to the maintenance of strict conditions that the ceremony will remain dignified and safe. This may include various venues, including private gardens and community centres. This makes marriage far more affordable to many people. Equally, government estimates suggest that over the next decade, the economy may benefit from the creation of 12,000 new jobs and a £535 million increase in revenue.
Currently, for a wedding to meet official recognition, most weddings take place in a place of worship, a register office or ‘approved’ venue and some limited outdoor spaces. Currently, certain religious ceremonies, including Muslim, Sikh, Buddhist and Hindu weddings, require a second ‘civil’ ceremony to complement their religious marriage. This will no longer be necessary. Unfortunately, some couples have lived for years in the belief that their religious or ‘custom’ marriages are legal, only to discover upon divorce that in the absence of official certification, their marriages are neither recognised nor afforded the protection of divorce legislation.
The next step in the progression of this change is a public consultation, to take place in 2026, followed by a change in legislation, assuming parliamentary time will allow.
Donna Goodsell observes that, should you be planning a marriage now or in future, it is always important to consider a pre-nuptial agreement both to manage and protect your assets.
At Goodsells Family Law Solicitors, we can provide specialist advice. Contact Donna Goodsell on donnagoodsell@goodsellssolicitors.co.uk or 020 7622 2221