Lyla Dejesus
The COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to big weddings, with restrictions on the number of guests, rules on masks, and even no kissing allowed. The pandemic also saw a rise in small weddings, with some couples relieved to avoid a big ceremony and the associated pressure and expense. Now, in 2025, the UK government is considering changes to wedding laws to allow more freedom in choosing venues, with weddings on beaches and in gardens potentially being permitted. These changes aim to liberate couples from outdated assumptions about weddings and offer more variety in venues. However, critics worry about the potential negative effects of loosening the law, including the possibility of themed weddings that may mock traditional marriage. The pandemic and evolving laws highlight the ongoing debate around big weddings and the importance of balancing tradition, personal preferences, and legal constraints when planning a couple's special day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wedding laws in the UK | To be significantly loosened by the Labour government |
| Current wedding laws in the UK | Restrictive, dating back to 1836 |
| Upcoming changes to wedding laws | To be implemented before the next election |
| Impact of the changes | More variety in wedding venues, including outdoors |
| Criticism of the changes | Waters down the institution of marriage |
| Covid-19 restrictions on weddings | Kissing restrictions, limited guests, and mandatory masks |
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Wedding laws in the UK
In the UK, weddings can be conducted by "authorised celebrants" or by an "authorised registrar". To be legally binding, weddings must be conducted in the presence of two witnesses, in addition to the couple and the person conducting the ceremony. If the person conducting the ceremony is not authorised to register marriages, the wedding must also be attended by whoever is registering the marriage. The marriage register is then signed by the couple, the celebrant, and the two witnesses.
In England and Wales, civil marriages may not take place in religious venues, but they may take place in other licensed venues. Local authority-approved premises can be obtained from the local town hall.
In England and Wales, and Scotland, same-sex couples can convert a civil partnership into a marriage. Foreign divorces are generally recognised in the UK, but an existing foreign marriage would prevent a marriage in the UK as this would be considered bigamy.
In July 2022, the Law Commission released a report on the state of the laws regarding weddings in England and Wales, finding them confusing, complex, inconsistent, and outdated. The report called for a complete revision of the laws, which date back to 1836 or earlier.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, rules on large gatherings, including weddings, were restricted in the UK. In February 2021, weddings were limited to six attendees and could only take place in exceptional circumstances. By June 2021, the limit on wedding guest numbers was removed, but some conditions remained in place.
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Wedding costs
The reception venue is often the biggest expense, with couples spending nearly a quarter of their budget on it, which amounts to around $8,000 based on a $33,000 total budget. Couples who hire a wedding planner spend on average about 6% of their budget on an event coordinator, which is approximately $2,000. Photography and videography can cost around $4,000, while entertainment, such as a DJ or band, can take up about 9% of the budget, or roughly $3,000.
There are ways to keep costs down, such as opting for a courthouse ceremony, which has a standard license fee of $30 in Denver, $50 in Boston, and $100 in Santa Barbara, California. A private ceremony like this can save on other expenses, such as a rehearsal dinner, which typically costs around $2,700. When planning a wedding, it's important to shop around, ask for quotes from multiple vendors, and pay attention to what is included in the fees. Some venues provide tables, chairs, linens, and audio equipment at no additional cost, while others charge extra for these items.
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Wedding size
The size of a wedding is a personal choice that depends on various factors, including the couple's preferences, budget, venue, and local regulations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were restrictions on wedding sizes, with smaller weddings becoming more common. Some couples chose to elope or have micro weddings, which offer affordability, flexibility, and intimacy. However, others may have felt disappointed by not having a larger celebration with extended family and friends.
Planning a big wedding can be a complex and costly endeavour. A larger guest list typically requires more planning, a bigger budget, and a suitable venue. It involves considering numerous details, from food and drinks to accommodation and transportation. Additionally, there may be cultural or family expectations to host a grand wedding, which can be a source of pressure for some couples.
On the other hand, smaller weddings have gained popularity due to their practicality and affordability. A micro wedding, for example, allows for a more personalised and intimate celebration with a smaller group of guests. It offers flexibility in terms of location and traditions, enabling couples to create their own unique experience. Smaller weddings can also be more financially manageable, allowing couples to allocate their budget to other priorities, such as the honeymoon or purchasing a home.
The legal requirements for weddings also play a role in determining their size. In some places, laws restrict the type of ceremony and venue, impacting the number of guests that can be accommodated. For example, in the UK, non-religious belief marriage ceremonies, like those conducted by humanist celebrants, are not legally binding and must be followed by a separate civil ceremony. However, there are efforts to reform these laws and grant more flexibility to couples.
Ultimately, the decision on wedding size rests with the couple. While some dream of a grand celebration with numerous guests, others prefer the intimacy and simplicity of a smaller gathering. It is essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option and choose what aligns best with the couple's vision, values, and financial situation.
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Wedding venues
The size of your wedding venue will depend on the number of guests you plan to invite. A bigger venue means more guests, more planning, and a bigger budget. A smaller, more intimate venue will be more affordable and flexible, but you may wish you had invited more people to share your special day.
The type of venue you choose is also important. Weddings in Britain are currently constrained by laws dating back to 1836, which permit only religious or civil ceremonies. Under UK law, non-religious belief marriage ceremonies, like those conducted by humanist celebrants, are not legally binding in England and Wales and must be followed by a separate legal ceremony. However, the Labour government is set to allow weddings on beaches and in gardens, significantly loosening wedding laws. These changes will come into effect before the next election. This will allow a much greater variety of wedding venues, including outdoor spaces.
When choosing a venue, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each option. A bigger venue means more guests, which can be a recipe for an incredible time. It also means more planning and a bigger budget. A smaller venue, like an elopement or micro-wedding, can be more affordable and intimate, but you may miss out on certain traditions. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and budget.
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Wedding traditions
The Wedding Dress Code
The bride's choice of attire is one of the most well-known wedding traditions. While modern brides have embraced diverse styles, including above-shoulder-length hair and shorter dresses, the white wedding dress remains a classic symbol of bridal elegance. This tradition is rooted in the belief that white is reserved for the bride and represents purity and innocence. In ancient times, brides in Greece and Rome carried bouquets of garlic, dill, and herbs to ward off evil spirits, a custom that has evolved into today's fragrant and colourful floral bouquets.
The Veil
The veil is another iconic wedding accessory with a long history. In ancient Rome, brides wore veils over their faces to disguise themselves from evil spirits. Today, veils come in various styles, from short blusher veils to dramatic cathedral-length ones, adding a touch of mystery and romance to the bridal ensemble.
The Wedding Rings
The exchange of wedding rings is a universal symbol of commitment. The Romans believed that the vein on the fourth finger of the left hand, the "ring finger," was directly connected to the heart, solidifying its significance in wedding traditions across cultures.
The Bouquet Toss
The tradition of the bride tossing her bouquet has become a fun and anticipated moment at weddings. It is believed to have originated from an Old English rhyme about the four objects a bride should have for good luck: "something old" to represent the couple's past, "something new" for their future, "something borrowed" to symbolise borrowing happiness from a happily married friend, and "something blue" for fidelity and love.
The Wedding Cake
The wedding cake is a beloved tradition that has evolved over time. Tiered cakes, in particular, have become a popular choice, often serving as a stunning centrepiece at the reception.
The First Dance
While not mentioned in the sources, the first dance is a staple of wedding receptions, where the newlyweds share a romantic dance, often followed by the rest of the wedding party and guests.
These traditions, both old and new, contribute to the richness and diversity of wedding celebrations, allowing couples to express their love and commitment in meaningful ways.
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Frequently asked questions
Labour is set to allow weddings on beaches and in gardens, with plans to significantly loosen wedding laws. These changes will come into effect before the next election.
Weddings in Britain are currently constrained by laws dating back to 1836, which permit only religious or civil ceremonies. Under current UK law, non-religious belief marriage ceremonies, like those conducted by humanist celebrants, are not legally binding in England and Wales and must be followed by a separate legal ceremony.
Critics have cited the possibility of Star Wars-themed weddings, carried out according to the customs of the Jedi religion from the science fiction franchise, being allowed as a potential negative effect of loosening the law.
