It’s been called the biggest shake-up of wedding law in two hundred years — and if you’re planning a wedding, or dreaming about one, it’s worth paying attention.
Right now, in England and Wales, only two types of ceremony are legally binding: a religious ceremony conducted in a registered place of worship, or a civil ceremony conducted by a registrar in a licensed building. Everything else — however meaningful, however personal — has no legal standing on its own. That’s why so many couples who choose an independent celebrant for their ‘real’ ceremony still have to have a separate, often quite clinical, legal signing at a register office beforehand.
The government’s new consultation proposes changing that. Instead of the law focusing on where a wedding can happen, it would focus on who is conducting it. Trained, registered officiants — including independent celebrants — could be authorised to conduct the full legal ceremony themselves, wherever the couple chooses: a marquee in a field, a beach, a family garden, a beloved local hall.
So what’s the difference between a registrar and a celebrant, really?
A registrar’s job is to make your marriage legal. Their script is fixed, their venue must be licensed, and there’s very little room for personalisation — because that isn’t what the role is for.
A celebrant’s job is to tell your story. Every ceremony I write is built entirely around the couple in front of me — their history, their humour, the small details only their friends and family would recognise. It’s personal, it’s often funny, it’s sometimes tear-inducing, and it’s entirely yours.
Under the proposed reforms, that distinction could disappear — because a celebrant could be both. One ceremony. Legally binding. Entirely personal. No separate trip to the register office required.
What can you actually do about it?
This isn’t law yet — it’s a consultation, which means the government is actively gathering views before deciding what happens next. If this matters to you, whether you’re planning a wedding or you simply believe couples should have more freedom over their own day, there are two easy things you can do: respond to the government consultation directly, or write a short letter or email to your local MP letting them know you support the change. The change needs to include all independent qualified celebrants .It genuinely does make a difference — these consultations are shaped by exactly this kind of public response.
In the meantime, I’ll keep doing what I do best: writing ceremonies that feel entirely, unmistakably yours. Watch this space.
What I Do
Weddings and Commitment Ceremonies
Your love story deserves centre stage. I craft wedding ceremonies that reflect who you really are – whether that's a sophisticated celebration in an historic venue or an intimate gathering in your favourite spot. From the legal bit to the heartfelt vows, I'll guide you through creating a ceremony that's entirely, authentically yours.
Funerals and Celebrations of Life
Saying goodbye is never easy, but it can be beautiful, meaningful, and even uplifting. I work closely with families to create tributes that truly honour your loved one – celebrating their quirks, their passions, and the impact they made. Together, we'll craft a ceremony that creates the perfect send-off.
Naming Ceremonies
Welcome the newest addition to your family with a ceremony that's full of love, laughter and hope. Whether you're celebrating a birth, an adoption, or a new chapter in someone's life, I'll help you create a meaningful occasion that brings everyone together.
Vow Renewals
Still crazy about each other? Of course you are ! Why not celebrate that? Vow renewals are joyful, romantic occasions that remind everyone why love and commitment matter.. Whether it's your 10th or 40th anniversary, let's create a ceremony that honours your journey together.
Pet Celebrations
Our furry, feathered, and four-legged family members deserve recognition too. From welcoming a new pet into your fold to saying goodbye to a beloved companion, I can create a heartfelt ceremony that acknowledges the special place they hold in your heart.