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.
5 Reasons Why Wedding Law Reform Is A Vote Winner!
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Wedding Law Reform Will Boost UK Economy By Up To £1.1bn
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GCCM Launches Policy Paper On UK Wedding Law Reform
We are delighted to announce that this week the Give Couples Choice Movement (GCCM) has launched a...
Independent Celebrants And Humanist Celebrants – What’s The Difference?
When planning a wedding ceremony in the UK, you’ll soon discover there’s a wonderful world of...
UK Wedding Law Reform: 5 Actions For Celebrants
Change is coming! In October 2025 we were delighted to receive confirmation that the Government...
How to discuss Marriage Law Reform with your MP
If you attended our October Online Conference you will have heard our session on WHY and HOW to...
What does marriage law reform mean for celebrants?
THE MARRIAGE LAW FOR ENGLAND AND WALES IS UNDER REVIEW WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR CELEBRANTS? The...
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