Where couples could legally marry under new rules – from castles to canal boats
Couples in England and Wales could soon have the freedom to get married in a wider range of unusual locations, including forests, beaches, the sea and even their own gardens, under new government proposals.
These proposed changes aim to significantly reduce the financial burden of weddings and eliminate the need to hold multiple ceremonies for couples of different faiths or beliefs.
The current system often forces couples to hold two separate events: one to reflect their personal beliefs and the other to legally celebrate their union.
The average wedding in England is estimated to cost in excess of £20,000, and with the pre-dinner cost of venue hire alone typically around £6,000, the reforms could offer a much-needed cost-saving alternative.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said the new rules will simplify legally recognized religious ceremonies and allow humanists to hold legally binding weddings for the first time.
What are the changes?
Currently the venues are licensed for weddings but plans propose changing this to the celebrant, allowing couples to marry anywhere.
Forests, beaches, castles, canal boats and cruise ships at sea could become places where people can legally get married under a consultation that runs from Thursday to September 24.
Getting married in the backyard may also become legal; However, the Ministry of Justice said safeguards would be taken in the form of a two-stage process, including face-to-face interviews with 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 that a 3% increase in the number of weddings could create additional annual spending of around £139 million and contribute more than £238 million to the UK economy over the next decade.
‘Reform of old rules’
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister David Lammy said: “They say there’s no price on love, but often the expense of weddings puts that commitment out of reach.
“That’s why I’m reshaping old rules so couples have more freedom to say ‘I do’ on their own terms, while strengthening safeguards to preserve the meaning and permanence of marriage.”
Justice Secretary Baroness Levitt said: “The institution of marriage is a cornerstone of British life and a wedding is much more than a legal formality – it is often one of the most important days in a couple’s life.
“But we know that the law does not apply equally to everyone. No one should have to choose between a ceremony that honors their faith, culture and traditions and a ceremony that gives them legal protection.
“These proposals solve outdated restrictions so all couples can officially marry in a way that suits them.”
What Independent readers consider the cost of weddings
It’s not just the wedding party that’s feeling the pinch when it comes to wedding expenses. Some readers say the pressures and expectations extend to guests and even vendors, while others wonder if the rush to throw an extravagant wedding is starting to overshadow the marriage.
Here are some of the best comments:
- excess of modernity weddings It amazes me; All this for one day, while many complain that they can’t afford a house. – no comments
- Attending an event shouldn’t cost anything wedding if you are one of the bridal party. I’m pretty sure this is an import from the United States – explain in detail weddings and all the excitement that comes with it. The best weddings I’ve ever attended were low-key affairs where the couple and/or their parents explained everything. If you can’t afford to essentially invite people to a party, then don’t throw one. – Bobby McGee
- Weddings aside, bachelorette parties have become ridiculously expensive, while marriages have become shorter and divorces more expensive; Whatever you do, do this. – I’m just saying
