Your wedding, your way, and soon in any dream location you desire, from your garden to the beach, the woods, or even your favourite theme park.
The wedding reform is set to overhaul marriage regulations across England and Wales since the 19th century, as long as the location is deemed safe and dignified by presiding officials.
Bringing the laws in line with Scotland, Northern Ireland and Jersey, the changes could also allow independent celebrants to conduct civil wedding ceremonies.
When could these changes come into force?
With recommendations published in July 2022, any responses are expected by January 2023, with a final decision expected to be shared by July 2023.
What could this mean for your wedding?
While couples throughout Scotland, including the Scottish Borders, already have the opportunity to enjoy their wedding wherever their heart’s desire, conducted by their own chosen Independent Celebrant (without having to obtain a legal marriage first), couples in England are still restricted by getting married only in licensed or local authority-approved premises, conducted by someone who can legally register, or with a registrar present.
However, should the changes of the reform come into force, you and your loved one can indeed marry in the place truly special to you, with a ceremony fully reflecting your wishes and beliefs, without the need to travel abroad, or indeed have two weddings to meet the requirements of law and personal wishes.
The changes will also require the officiant to be regulated as opposed to the location, allowing for couples to personalise the content of their own wedding.
A message from Surrounded by Love
I am fully supportive of the suggested changes in the law of weddings, and importantly bringing England and Wales in line with Scotland’s existing laws.
Delivering a couple’s ideal way, in every way they could dream, is truly an honour, and something I am blessed to be a part of.
If you’re seeking an independent celebrant covering the Scottish borders, Edinburgh and East Lothian as well as Newcastle and North Northumberland, who can help you achieve your ideal wedding day or vow renewal, contact me today.
Surrounded By Love 