Under the current law for approved premises such as hotels, civil weddings or civil partnership ceremonies must take place in an approved room or permanent structure.

However, from 1 July 2021, couples will be allowed to have the ceremony on premises outside.  This flexibility allows couples more options on how they celebrate their big day by allowing them to have the whole ceremony take place at an outside venue.

The change offers greater flexibility to meet demand for larger ceremonies, particularly during the covid-19 pandemic when there are public health guidelines to follow, and indoor venues are limited.

A couple’s wedding day is one of their most precious times and this change will allow them to celebrate how they want to and with more of their loved ones.

On 30 June 2021, the Marriages and Civil Partnerships (Approved Premises) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 will be laid. This will amend the Marriages and Civil Partnerships (Approved Premises) Regulations 2005 (SI 2005/3168), so that from 1 July 2021 civil weddings and civil partnership ceremonies will be able to take place within the grounds of approved premises. The amendments will be effective until April 2022, with a consultation to take place in autumn 2021 to consider the practical implications of the policy and to enable further regulations to be made on a permanent basis.

If you are planning your big day, then you will likely welcome the change here. You may also wish to consider entering into a pre-nuptial agreement ahead of your wedding. Many couples may enter into a pre-nuptial agreement for one of many reasons:

(1) they have been married before

(2) they have children from a previous relationship

(3) they may expect to inherit wealth after marrying

(4) they generally wish to protect non-matrimonial property.

Our Family Law Team are on hand to discuss any queries in relation to pre-nuptial agreements, and can offer a free initial 30 minute telephone call.  Should you have any queries regarding the contents of this article or if you’d like to arrange a no-obligation consultation contact our Family Law Team today on 01204 527777 (Bolton) or 01254 268790 (Blackburn).