Can my mum be my witness at a wedding?

Being a parent is not a bar to being a witness. Your mum can stand beside you at the ceremony and sign the marriage schedule or document, just like any other witness. This is a lovely way to include her in the legal part of your day.

The only real requirements are that she is old enough to understand the ceremony, is present for it, and can sign the document clearly. In Scotland, she must be 16 or over. In England and Wales, most people choose witnesses who are 18 or older, but the legal minimum for a witness is not always the same as the marriage age. Check with your registrar or celebrant if you are unsure.

Some families worry that a parent as a witness might seem unusual, but it is perfectly acceptable and quite common. If you have a smaller wedding or a close-knit family, asking a parent is a natural choice. Just make sure she is happy to take on the role and can stay for the signing.

If you prefer, you can still ask a friend or sibling to be a witness and invite your mum to stand nearby instead.