Supporting the inclusion of independent celebrants in wedding law reform
What is the Give Couples Choice Movement?
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 now on the outcome of 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. The consultation closed on 24 September 2026, and the responses are now with the Government. Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond.
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 consultation on the details of this reform.
As part of this consultation, a key topic up for discussion (in question 27) was whether independent celebrants should be allowed to conduct legally binding weddings. The consultation is now closed, and our latest article looks at what was proposed and what comes next.
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.
Wedding law reform after the consultation: the 10-to-1 question and what comes next
The Government’s consultation on wedding law reform in England and Wales closed on 24 September 2026.
Wedding Law Reform: 5 Takeaways For Independent Celebrants (And The Couples Who Choose Them)
As couples, celebrants and wedding professionals have spent the last few weeks responding to the...
It’s Time To Have Your Say! How To Respond To The Wedding Law Consultation
In July 2026, the Government opened a consultation entitled Tying the Knot: Reforming weddings law...
Government Opens Long-Awaited Consultation on Wedding Law Reform
The Government has officially opened its long-awaited public consultation on wedding law reform in...
Katy And Michael’s Celebrant-Led Woodland Wedding In Hertfordshire
At the GCCM we hear so many wonderful stories that showcase just how unique and meaningful celebrant weddings can be.
GCCM responds to Northern Ireland Marriage Law Consultation
The Give Couples Choice Movement has submitted a response to the Northern Ireland Marriage Law...
Feedback From Couples Highlights Demand For Independent Celebrant Weddings
The results are in! We put a call out for any couples who had chosen an independent celebrant for...
GCCM Launches Couples Survey To Inform The Wedding Law Reform Consultation
The consultation on wedding law reform in England and Wales is just around the corner, with the...
How Will Venues Benefit From Wedding Law Reform? Let Us Count The Ways…
The UK wedding industry is on the brink of its biggest legal transformation in generations. With...
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