Supporting the inclusion of independent celebrants in wedding law reform
The Give Couples Choice Movement is a UK-based collective advocating for the inclusion of independent celebrants in wedding law reform. We firmly believe that this is the only way to meet the needs of ALL couples who choose to marry, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.
Our focus is currently on the Government consultation released in 2026, which is based on the Law Commission recommendations put forward in 2022. We were delighted to hear of the Government’s initial view that independent celebrants should be included as authorised marriage officiants under the proposed new scheme. But nothing is confirmed yet. That’s why it’s so important for everyone with a view on this to respond to the consultation by the closing date of 24th September 2026.
Please note that this consultation relates to the Government’s commitment to reform wedding law in England and Wales, however we are also doing all we can to advocate for similar reform in Scotland and Ireland.
the latest on wedding law reform
Change is coming! The Government confirmed in 2025 that it will be reforming wedding law in England and Wales, and in 2026 the Ministry of Justice released a public consulation on the details of this reform.
As part of this consultation, a key topic up for discussion (in question 27) is whether independent celebrants should be allowed to conduct legally binding weddings. So it’s incredibly important that celebrants, wedding professionals, couples, and anyone who supports this responds before the closing date.
How can I get involved?
Want to help? In addition to writing to your MP, there are lots of ways you can support the movement – whether you’re a celebrant, wedding supplier or couple. Let’s join forces to spread the message that celebrants must be legally recognised to give couples the choice they deserve.
ABOUT US
The Give Couples Choice Movement (GCCM) is run by a group of celebrants and industry professionals who are passionate about ensuring that independent celebrants are included in wedding law reform. Our purpose is to champion fairness and choice for ALL couples to be able to have a legal wedding ceremony that is meaningful to them. We continue to raise awareness across the wedding industry, government and the media, with the ultimate aim of ensuring that independent celebrants are authorised to officiate legal wedding ceremonies. We are keen to support and work with all interested parties.
Blog
Want to know more about how this could be affecting you or what’s happening in government today? We share top news and articles here.
Government Opens Long-Awaited Consultation on Wedding Law Reform
Katy And Michael’s Celebrant-Led Woodland Wedding In Hertfordshire
GCCM responds to Northern Ireland Marriage Law Consultation
Feedback From Couples Highlights Demand For Independent Celebrant Weddings
GCCM Launches Couples Survey To Inform The Wedding Law Reform Consultation
How Will Venues Benefit From Wedding Law Reform? Let Us Count The Ways…
5 Reasons Why Wedding Law Reform Is A Vote Winner!
Wedding Law Reform Will Boost UK Economy By Up To £1.1bn
GCCM Launches Policy Paper On UK Wedding Law Reform
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