When planning a wedding, most couples focus on the big decisions—venue, dress, guest list, and vows. But there’s one small legal detail that carries a lot of weight: the wedding witness. Without one, your marriage isn’t legally valid in the UK. So, who can be a witness, what do they actually do, and how do you choose the right people?
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about wedding witnesses, from legal requirements to personal recommendations. Whether you’re having a lavish event or a quiet registry office ceremony, these tips will help you make informed choices—and avoid last-minute stress on the big day.
What Is a Wedding Witness?
A wedding witness plays an essential role in the legal side of your marriage ceremony. Their job is to observe the signing of the marriage register and then add their own signature to confirm everything was done properly. Without them, your marriage won’t be legally recognised. That’s why choosing the right people matters.
A wedding witness must be present during the signing of the marriage register to make the marriage legally binding.
They must be able to understand what’s happening and give their signature willingly.
Witnesses don’t need any legal training or official status—just the ability to sign their name.
Their role is purely legal, but many couples choose witnesses who are special to them.
Why Do You Need a Wedding Witness?
A wedding witness isn’t just a tradition—they’re a legal necessity in the UK. Their presence confirms that both parties willingly entered into the marriage. Their signature proves that the marriage took place in accordance with the law. Without a witness, your marriage would be incomplete.
A witness provides legal verification that the marriage ceremony was conducted correctly.
They help prevent fraud or coercion by confirming both parties consented.
Their role is part of civil law, not religious tradition—both civil and church weddings require them.
It ensures there’s a public record of the union from someone outside the couple.
How Many Witnesses Do You Need?
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the law requires two witnesses to validate the marriage. Typically, one witness signs for each person getting married. In Scotland, there is a similar requirement. You can choose more witnesses symbolically, but only two need to sign the register.
Two witnesses are required—one for each partner, though either can sign for both.
They must be present at the ceremony and physically see the register being signed.
You can include additional people as symbolic witnesses, but their signatures aren’t needed legally.
The registrar or officiant will confirm who is legally signing as witness on the day.
Who Can Sign the Wedding Register as a Witness?
UK marriage law is quite flexible when it comes to who can sign the register. Witnesses don’t need to be related to the couple, nor do they need to know them personally. They just need to be old enough and capable of understanding their responsibility. That opens the door to a wide choice of people.
Most venues and registrars require witnesses to be at least 18, though technically younger witnesses may be allowed if they understand the role.
Witnesses don’t need to be British citizens or UK residents.
They can be family members, friends, or even colleagues—as long as they are present and willing.
Anyone who’s able to understand and sign the register clearly can be considered suitable.
Can a Stranger Be a Wedding Witness?
It might surprise you, but yes—complete strangers can be your wedding witnesses. This is especially helpful for elopements or very small ceremonies. As long as the stranger is willing and meets the legal criteria, they can step in. Some registrars even keep staff on hand for this exact reason.
A member of venue staff or a registrar’s assistant can serve as a legal witness.
If you don’t bring guests, the venue will typically arrange for witnesses on your behalf.
There’s no legal requirement that the witness knows either party personally.
If you meet someone willing to help on the day, they can step in as a valid witness.
Can People in the Wedding Party Be Witnesses?
Many couples choose members of their wedding party to act as witnesses, and this is completely acceptable. Whether it's your maid of honour, best man, or even a parent, anyone close to you can be chosen. This adds a meaningful layer to their involvement in your big day. It’s a great way to honour someone special.
Your maid of honour, best man, or close family member can legally act as a witness.
Combining roles (like being both a bridesmaid and a witness) is entirely fine.
Parents or siblings are commonly chosen if you want to keep it in the family.
Choosing someone already involved in the ceremony keeps things simple and intimate.
Do You Have to Be a Witness at the Wedding?
Being asked to witness a wedding is a privilege, but it’s not something you have to accept. If you’re not comfortable signing legal documents or simply don’t feel up to it, you can say no. What matters most is that the witness is willing, informed, and capable. Consent applies to witnesses, too.
It’s perfectly okay to decline the role if you’re not comfortable with the responsibility.
Legal obligations mean witnesses must be mentally sound and understand their role.
If you’re feeling unwell or unsure on the day, a replacement can step in.
Only agree to be a witness if you’re confident you can fulfil the duties properly.
Who Should I Choose to Be My Wedding Witness?
While anyone who meets the criteria can be a witness, many couples prefer to choose someone meaningful. This might be a close friend, a sibling, or a parent. It’s a way of honouring someone special in your life. Think about who you'd want standing beside you in that moment.
Choose someone you trust and who supports your relationship wholeheartedly.
Consider someone who’s calm, reliable, and unlikely to miss the ceremony or get nervous.
Pick someone who understands how important the role is and won’t treat it lightly.
Use it as an opportunity to include a person who hasn’t been given a role elsewhere in the wedding.
Can You Have a Wedding Without Witnesses?
In the UK, no witnesses means no legally recognised marriage. Even if everything else is perfect—the dress, the vows, the venue—it won’t count unless witnessed. Your ceremony must be observed and signed off by at least two people. This ensures the union is legally binding and documented.
Two witnesses are the legal minimum required for a valid marriage in the UK.
A wedding without witnesses will not be recognised by UK law and must be repeated.
You cannot substitute witnesses with technology (e.g., livestreaming doesn't count).
If you’re having a private or elopement-style ceremony, ask the venue or officiant to help.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Witnesses
Your wedding witnesses may only appear in a small part of your ceremony, but their role is huge in the eyes of the law.
Whether you’re planning a large celebration or an intimate elopement, choosing the right people to sign your register is vital. They’re not just checking a box—they’re part of your marriage story.
