A common wedding tradition could potentially derail nuptials before they even begin, according to experts. While many grooms in the UK consider a hipflask an essential accessory alongside a bow tie and cufflinks, a little-known legal rule means that even a small sip of alcohol in the ceremony room could jeopardize the entire day.
The Legal Requirements for Getting Married in the UK
To legally marry in the UK, couples must adhere to strict conditions. In England and Wales, the ceremony must take place in an approved, licensed room, be open to the public, and have arrangements approved by a registrar or local registration authority. Civil weddings cannot include religious content. Crucially, no alcohol may be consumed in the ceremony room for one hour before or during the proceedings. If a registrar believes either party is intoxicated, they are required to stop the ceremony.
Expert Warnings
Alex McMillan, founder of wedding accessories brand Sayers London, explains: "What many couples don’t realise is that registrars have a legal responsibility to ensure both parties are entering the marriage willingly and understand what they’re agreeing to. Even carrying a drink or hipflask into a ceremony room could get you into trouble." He advises waiting until after the legalities are completed, as the hint of alcohol on your breath could be enough to halt proceedings.
Mair Garland, a London-based celebrant, adds: "Wedding ceremonies are moments to be fully present for. They include the most beautiful and meaningful words a couple will ever say to each other, which deserve to be experienced clearly and remembered properly." While she understands that some may want a small drink to calm nerves, she emphasizes the difference between taking the edge off and becoming intoxicated.
Why Hipflasks Are Popular at Weddings
Hipflasks are often engraved and personalized as gifts for groomsmen. On sites like Sayers, they come in various styles, including classic pewter, stainless steel, and leather. Some Reddit users have admitted to bringing hipflasks to reduce bar costs, with one user stating: "I have two in my jacket pockets for every wedding. It gives me a chance to break the ice, calm the groom down with a nip. Plus, I get started early before the priced drinks start." Women also participate, with one commenting that she hides her flask "in her bra."
Real-Life Consequences
A retired minister who conducted over 1,000 weddings shared on Reddit that he once refused to perform a ceremony when the groom was too intoxicated to stand up. The wedding was rescheduled for the afternoon to allow the groom to sober up. Wedding officiant @fancigirl25 stated: "If a couple show up drunk or under the influence on their wedding day, I’m not performing the ceremony." Another user, @WildWillieBorsch, added: "If they wouldn’t pass a DUI test, they should sober up before they agree to a lifetime commitment." Some officials try to minimize disruption by rescheduling or having the couple sign paperwork the next day.
Given the effort involved in planning a wedding, a last-minute change of plans is unlikely to be well-received. Experts advise thinking twice before drinking ahead of the ceremony—or at least ensuring you aren’t caught.
