Critical Wedding Admin Warning: 'Giving Notice' Requirement Could Cancel Your Day
Couples planning their weddings across the United Kingdom are being urged to address a crucial administrative step that, if overlooked, could force them to postpone their entire celebration. This warning comes after a bride-to-be shared her near-miss experience, highlighting how many are unaware of this legal necessity.
Social Media Alert Sparks Concern
Model and former Made In Chelsea star Emily Blackwell took to her TikTok account, which boasts 74,000 followers, to reveal she "nearly had to move her whole wedding" due to an oversight. She explained that no one had ever mentioned the requirement to her before, describing it as something "everyone has to do" called "giving notice of marriage."
"If you're getting married next year, or even this year, or actually whenever... then this video is for you," she cautioned in her post, which garnered over 4,000 likes. Emily admitted being a "Type B bride" who hadn't read her emails thoroughly, leading to a last-minute scramble.
The 'Giving Notice' Process Explained
In the UK, "giving notice" is a mandatory legal declaration of intent to marry or form a civil partnership, made at a local register office. It must be completed at least 29 days before the ceremony, with appointments often booking up quickly.
The process involves:
- Booking a face-to-face appointment at your local registry office.
- Providing original documents, including proof of identity, address, and marital status.
- Paying a fee of £42 per person (rising to £46.50 from April 2026).
Emily, 28, recounted how she realized this requirement late, finding no available appointments initially. After pleading with officials, she was eventually squeezed in, possibly due to a cancellation or emergency slot. "Do not leave this until the last minute because all of the appointments do get really booked up," she advised.
Public Reaction and Shared Experiences
The warning resonated widely, with many expressing gratitude and surprise. One commenter wrote, "Oh my God, I’m glad I’m not the only one! Why is it like a secret but everyone else seems to know to do it?" Another added, "You have just saved me… my wedding is two months away and no one has mentioned this to me!"
However, some were astonished by the lack of awareness, noting that registrars typically inform couples during booking. A respondent pointed out, "It’s always been a thing," suggesting this step is well-established in wedding planning.
Key Details and Exceptions
For those marrying in the Church of England or Church in Wales, the process usually involves having "Banns" read in church instead of giving notice at a register office. Non-UK nationals may face additional requirements, such as attending together if one lacks settled status.
Once given, notice is valid for 12 months, but changing venues requires redoing the process and paying fees again. The statutory waiting period is 28 clear days, extendable to 70 days for immigration referrals.
Emily Blackwell's Personal Story
Emily, originally from Surrey, is set to marry long-term boyfriend Jordan Oldershaw, CEO of a financial consultancy firm, later this year. The couple, who got engaged in Florence in August 2024, postponed initial wedding plans after discovering they were expecting their first child. Their daughter, Eva, born in November 2024, will serve as flower girl.
This incident underscores the importance of thorough wedding planning, ensuring administrative tasks are completed well in advance to avoid last-minute disruptions.
