Amelia Bunce, Trainee Solicitor
Amelia has been supporting John Randle in the family team, dealing with all aspects of family law, specialising in high-net-worth divorces. She also works on contentious and non-contentious employment matters, and personal injury claims – including those arising in connection with historic child abuse.
Announced on 2 October 2025, in what the government describes as the biggest overhaul of marriage law since the 19th century, a set of proposed reforms aims to modernise how, where, and by whom couples can marry. The changes promise greater flexibility for couples and are projected to boost the economy by £535 million.
These proposals build on the Law Commission’s recommendations, published in July 2022, which sought to remove outdated and unnecessary legal barriers to marriage.
What Will the Proposed Reforms Mean for Marrying Couples?
Currently, couples in England and Wales can only marry in limited types of venues — such as a register office, an approved premises (like a hotel licensed by the local authority), a registered religious building, or a licensed military chapel.
Under the proposed reforms, couples would be able to marry in a far broader range of locations, provided the venue meets a standard of “appropriateness and dignity.” This could include beaches, gardens, heritage sites, and other non-traditional spaces.
Crucially, the focus of regulation would shift from venues to officiants. Rather than the building determining the legality of a ceremony, the emphasis would be placed on the individuals authorised to conduct the wedding. This change opens the door to more flexible, inclusive, and creative ceremonies.
The government has stated that these reforms aim to ensure marriage law reflects modern British values. They would simplify the process for couples to have legally recognised religious ceremonies, including Sikh, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu weddings, while also allowing non-religious groups, such as Humanists, to conduct legally binding ceremonies.
Economic Impact
Whilst this will be welcome news to engaged couples, these reforms are intended to achieve more than just freedom for future brides and grooms.
The government projects that there will be a 3% increase in the number of weddings in England and Wales as a result of the reforms, which is expected to increase the economy by £535 million in the first 10 years.
Is it also expected that that the reforms will support circa 1,800 more businesses, generate additional public revenue exceeding £100 million, and to create up to 12,000 new jobs across sectors tied to weddings (from event planning and catering to venues, florists, photographers and more).
When Will the Changes Come into Effect?
The reforms are still in the early stages. It is expected that the government will launch a public consultation in 2026, seeking views on the proposals before introducing legislation, once parliamentary time allows for this.
If supported, the reforms will then move through the usual parliamentary process before becoming law.
Although these proposals must still overcome legislative hurdles, they represent a significant step towards modernising marriage law, aligning it with contemporary attitudes towards marriage and celebration, while also offering potential economic benefits.
Need Advice About Legal Marriages?
If you’re planning to marry and would like advice on the legal aspects of marriage, our Family Law team can help. Contact us to arrange a free confidential initial consultation with one of our experienced lawyers.