It’s not just the pandemic that restricts where, when and how weddings can take place―strict rules exist, dating back to 1836. Confusingly, different rules apply for different religious affiliations.
Writing in this week’s NLJ, Ruth Oyelakin, solicitor at Anthony Gold, argues it’s time to change the rules and give couples more choice. She considers Law Commission proposals as well as the fact, due to the pandemic, approved venues are temporarily allowed to host ceremonies outdoors.
‘How and where marriages can take place has, and continues to be, tightly regulated,’ Oyelakin writes.
‘The current system is described as being confusing, archaic, and out of date. While it is accepted that it is important to regulate marriages and for there to be formal requirements, the current requirements do not reflect modern life. They also fail to offer couples the option of having a wedding that reflects their personal beliefs or cultural practices.’
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