Couples May Soon Be Able To Tie The Knot Anywhere In Biggest Shake-Up Of Wedding Rules

Couples could soon marry on a cruise ship, in their kitchen or during a day out at the beach under proposals to tear up current restrictions on where weddings can be held.

- Haroon Siddique

In what would be the biggest overhaul to marriage regulations in England and Wales since the 19th century, the Law Commission is recommending that weddings should be able to take place anywhere, providing the presiding official considers it safe and dignified.

The proposed reforms could also expand the pool of people who could act as officiants to all those nominated by religious or non-religious organisations, as well as independent officiants aged 18 and over. Independent officiants would have to apply to be individually registered and show that they are “fit and proper” persons.

Additionally, for cruise ships with a registered home port in England and Wales, officers such as the captain or chief mate would also be able to conduct a legally recognised ceremony.

Prof Nick Hopkins , the family law commissioner at the commission, said: “The current law on weddings is not working for many couples. Needless restrictions and outdated regulations mean that thousands each year are denied having a wedding that is meaningful to them.

“Our reforms for government are designed to protect the established practices and dignity of weddings, while offering couples more choice on where and how they marry.