What is the minyan and is it required for a Jewish wedding?

A minyan means ten Jewish adults, traditionally ten men in Orthodox communities, though some communities count women too. It is needed for the public parts of the wedding, including the blessings under the chuppah and the reading of the ketubah in some traditions.

If you are a guest, you may be asked to join the minyan if there are not enough people. This is usually arranged in advance by the couple or the rabbi. In Reform and Liberal communities the rules about who counts can be more flexible. The exact requirements depend on the community and the rabbi.

For the legal side of the wedding, a minyan is not needed. The legal marriage happens through the register office or an authorised person at a registered venue. If your ceremony is in a synagogue, the rabbi will confirm what is needed. For any questions about legal requirements, check GOV.UK or ask the register office.