What is the wedding law reform and how will it affect couples planning to marry?

Announced on the 2 October 2025, the wedding law reform is the biggest change to marriage law since the 19th century, but was it? Currently, weddings in England and Wales are restricted by law to licensed buildings such as registry offices, churches and approved venues. The government has announced plans to change this in England and Wales, resulting in marrying couples having the options of saying 'I do' in new locations such as on beaches, outdoor venues, castles and heritage sites.

In this article we outline why the law has been reformed, when the new wedding laws will come into effect and what this means for those planning to get married in the next few years.

Why has the law been reformed?

It's estimated that this reform could create 12,000 jobs, and inject £535 million into the economy. This is because, the reforms will allow couples to get married in more locations, giving them a choice of where or how they say their vows. The reform will also make the process more straightforward, fairer and less costly, thereby making the concept of a wedding day more accessible to people who have previously been put off by the ever increasing costs of throwing such celebrations.

These changes will also ensure that marriage legislation aligns with contemporary Britain, making it more straightforward for couples to engage in legally recognised religious ceremonies - encompassing Sikh, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu weddings - and permitting non-religious groups, such as Humanists, to perform legally binding ceremonies for the first time. Therefore, this suggested change to the law will enable couples to celebrate their marriage in a manner that genuinely represents their values, beliefs, and cultural traditions - with complete legal recognition.

When will the new wedding laws come into effect?

The reforms are not yet in place. The government has confirmed that a public consultation will take place in early 2026. Following this, legislation to change marriage law will follow when parliamentary time allows. This means if you're currently planning your wedding, you must still use licensed venues or registry offices for legal ceremonies.

What does this mean for you?

If you're planning on marrying in the next few years, then you may be in a position to have far more freedom on where you choose to day 'I do'. Whenever or however you do choose to say 'I do', you will effectively be making a legal contract with your husband or wife.

Getting married is not only the coming together of two people in love, but it's also the merger of financial assets, sometimes even if those assets are owned solely by one person prior to the marriage. If you or your family have any assets that you wish to try to keep separate from the marriage, then you should discuss asset protection, prior to getting married.

Our family solicitors have considerable experience helping individuals navigate the delicate area of asset protection prior to marriage and are skilled at drafting appropriate pre-nuptial agreements to provide you with financial security for the future. Please get in touch with our family team for further information.