Couples in England and Wales could soon have the freedom to marry in a wider array of unconventional locations, including forests, beaches, at sea, or even in their own gardens, under new government proposals.
These proposed changes aim to significantly reduce the financial burden of weddings and eliminate the need for multiple ceremonies for couples with differing faiths or beliefs.
The current system often forces couples to hold two separate events: one reflecting their personal convictions and another to legally solemnise their union.
With the average wedding in England estimated to exceed £20,000, and venue hire alone typically costing around £6,000 before catering, the reforms could offer a much-needed cost-saving alternative.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) indicated that the new rules would simplify legally recognised religious ceremonies and, for the first time, allow humanists to conduct legally binding weddings.
What are the changes?
Currently venues are licensed for weddings but the plans propose changing that to the celebrant, allowing couples to marry in any location.
Under the consultation, running from Thursday to September 24, forests, beaches, castles, canal boats and cruise ships at sea could become places to legally marry.
Marrying in a back garden could also become legal, although the MoJ said safeguards would be in place in the form of a two-stage process, including in-person interviews for couples, to protect against forced, predatory and sham marriages.
It has been suggested the reforms could also boost the economy after the Law Commission estimated a 3% increase in the number of weddings could generate around £139 million in additional annual spending, contributing over £238 million to the UK economy over the next decade.
‘Reforming archaic rules’
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy said: “They say you can’t put a price on love – but too often, the cost of weddings puts this commitment out of reach.
“That’s why I’m reforming archaic rules, so couples have more freedom to say ‘I do’ on their own terms, while strengthening safeguards to protect the meaning and permanence of marriage.”
Justice Minister Baroness Levitt said: “The institution of marriage is a cornerstone of British life and a wedding is far more than a legal formality, it is often one of the most important days of a couple’s life.
“But we know the law isn’t working equally for everyone. No one should have to choose between a ceremony that honours their faith, culture and traditions and one that gives them legal protection.
“These proposals untie outdated restrictions so all couples can officially tie the knot in a way that feels right for them.”
What Independent readers think about the cost of weddings
It’s not just the wedding party feeling the strain when it comes to the cost of weddings. Some readers said the pressure and expectations extend to guests and even vendors, with several wondering whether the fuss over having an extravagant wedding has started to eclipse the marriage itself.
Here are some of the best comments:
- The extravagance of modern weddings astounds me – all that for one day, when many complain they can’t afford a house. – nocomment
- It shouldn’t cost anything to attend a wedding if you’re one of the bridal party. I’m sure this is an import from the States – elaborate weddings and all the hype that comes with it. The best weddings I’ve ever been to have been low-key events where the couple and/or their parents have covered everything. If you can’t afford to invite people to what is essentially a party, then don’t have one. – Bobby McGee
- Hen dos and stag dos, not to mention weddings, have got ridiculously expensive, whilst marriages have got shorter and divorces have also become more expensive – make of that what you will. – Just Saying
