Love, Choice & Marriage Law Reform

💛 Love, not just the legals.

Lately, marriage law reform has been making headlines again — and as an independent celebrant, I’ve been reflecting on what it means for couples… and for me.

One of the things I love most about being an independent celebrant is the freedom it gives both me and my couples.

I can marry a couple anywhere — on a beach, in a back garden, in the middle of a forest, or even at home. There are no restrictions on venue licensing or on the words we choose to say. It’s all about the couple’s story, their love, and creating a ceremony that feels completely and authentically them.

And honestly, I quite like that I don’t have to get bogged down in the legal bits. That’s the registrar’s role — the nuts and bolts of legality. My role is different. It’s about meaning, connection, joy, and celebration.

But here’s where it gets tricky.

If wedding law reform ends up meaning that only humanist celebrants can legally officiate weddings, to me that’s just not inclusive. What about couples who aren’t humanist — or who are spiritual, multi-faith, or have their own mix of beliefs?

I actually had a humanist wedding myself in Northern Ireland — and it was beautiful. Truly. But here’s the thing: I’m not a humanist. I don’t completely reject the idea of God, so technically, I don’t fit their label. And that experience really made me think about inclusivity and choice.

The Law Commission has proposed shifting from a venue-based system to one based on licensed officiants. That’s a positive step. But if reforms mean only humanist celebrants can be licensed, then it shuts out so many people — people like me, and couples who don’t sit neatly in one belief system. That doesn’t feel right.

What I hope for is a future where all kinds of celebrants — independent, humanist, interfaith, spiritual — can be recognised equally. Where couples have the freedom to choose the celebrant who feels right for them. Because love shouldn’t come with a label.

Love deserves choice.

My job isn’t about the legals. It’s about telling your story, celebrating your love, and crafting a ceremony that feels truly you. That’s what matters most.

So, as conversations about marriage reform continue, let’s keep pushing for a future where every couple gets to choose how they marry — freely, joyfully, and in a way that reflects who they are.

✨ Love, not just the legals.

#WeddingLawReform #CelebrantChoice #LoveNotLegals #LoveNotRules