+44 (0)1782 205000
12/08/2026
The government’s latest consultation on weddings law reform in England and Wales highlights a significant shift towards modernising marriage, offering couples greater flexibility in how and where they marry, as well as who conducts the ceremony. Alongside these welcome reforms, there is a growing need for couples to consider another important aspect of marriage planning: the prenuptial agreement.
A New Era for Marriage
The Ministry of Justice’s consultation, Tying the Knot: Reforming Weddings Law in England and Wales, proposes sweeping changes to create a more inclusive, affordable and modern framework for marriage. The proposals include:
- allowing legally binding weddings conducted by non-religious belief organisations,
- expanding venue options, and
- moving towards an officiant-based system rather than one centred on approved venues.
At present, marriages and civil partnership ceremonies must take place at approved venues. But under the weddings law reform proposals couples could legally marry almost anywhere, as long as the act of marriage isn’t trivialised. So, rollercoasters and skydiving are likely to be out of the question!
With the average UK wedding now costing over £20,000, the changes potentially offer couples greater choice, personalisation and more cost-effective options for celebrating their relationships.
Marriage Is Both Emotional and Financial
While couples often spend months planning the perfect wedding, understandably focusing on the emotional commitment they are making, many overlook planning for the legal and financial implications of marriage.
For many couples, particularly those entering marriage with:
- existing property or businesses,
- family wealth or inheritances,
- children from previous relationships,
- significant income disparities, or
- international assets
a prenuptial agreement can provide valuable certainty and protection.
Far from being unromantic, a carefully drafted prenup encourages open and honest conversations about finances before marriage. It enables couples to start their married life with a clear understanding of how assets should be treated if the relationship later breaks down.
The Growing Trend Towards Relationship Planning
The government’s wider family law reform programme specifically references ongoing consultation regarding financial remedies on divorce and qualifying nuptial agreements. This reflects growing recognition that couples should have greater autonomy in determining their financial arrangements.
In recent years, prenuptial agreements have become increasingly mainstream across England and Wales. High-profile court decisions have established that properly prepared agreements can carry significant weight when determining financial settlements upon divorce.
As society embraces greater personal choice in how marriages are celebrated, it is logical that couples also seek greater choice in managing their financial future.
Prenuptial Agreements Provide Certainty in an Uncertain World
A prenuptial agreement can help:
- Protect Family Wealth
Many individuals wish to preserve assets accumulated before marriage or inherited from family members. A prenup can help ringfence those assets and clarify intentions from the outset.
- Safeguard Business Interests
Business owners often face significant risks if personal and commercial finances become entangled during divorce proceedings. A prenup can provide valuable protection for companies and fellow shareholders.
- Reduce Future Conflict
Relationship breakdowns are emotionally challenging. Establishing financial expectations in advance can reduce uncertainty, minimise disputes and help couples avoid lengthy litigation.
- Support Second Marriages
Where one or both parties have children from previous relationships, a prenuptial agreement can assist with succession planning and ensure intended beneficiaries remain protected.
- Planning for Marriage, Not for Divorce
One of the most common misconceptions about prenuptial agreements is that they anticipate failure. In reality, the opposite is often true.
Most couples take out life insurance despite hoping never to use it. Similarly, many people create wills while expecting to live long and happy lives. A prenuptial agreement is simply another form of responsible planning.
Just as the government’s weddings law reforms seek to create a modern framework that reflects today’s society and provides greater choice for couples, prenuptial agreements empower individuals to make informed decisions about their financial futures.
The Modern Couple’s Checklist in Light of Weddings Law Reform Proposals
As weddings law evolves and couples gain more freedom to personalise their ceremonies, relationship planning should become a natural part of the marriage journey.
Alongside choosing the venue, celebrant and guest list, couples should consider:
- Updating or preparing wills.
- Reviewing life insurance arrangements.
- Considering inheritance planning.
- Discussing financial expectations.
- Exploring a prenuptial agreement.
Conclusion on Weddings Law Reform
The government’s weddings law reform proposals acknowledge that marriage in the 21st century should be flexible, inclusive and reflective of modern relationships.
Prenuptial agreements complement this philosophy. They are not about anticipating separation; they are about providing clarity, transparency and protection for both parties. In an increasingly complex financial world, thoughtful relationship planning is becoming as important as wedding planning itself.
For couples preparing to say, ‘I do’, a prenuptial agreement may be one of the most valuable investments they make in their future together.
If you have questions about prenuptial agreements, please don’t hesitate to contact our family law team by emailing enquiry@beswicks.com or phoning 01782 205000.
