What are the main things you need for a wedding?

Short answer

The main things are the legal paperwork, a venue, two witnesses, and a plan for the ceremony. Then add the practical details: guests, outfits, food, and a way to communicate your plans, such as invitations or a wedding website.

The legal side comes first. Give notice at the right register office, at least 28 days ahead in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, or 29 days in Scotland. Choose a venue that is registered for marriages, or a religious building that is registered, and arrange two witnesses. In England and Wales, civil ceremonies cannot include religious content, so if you want hymns or prayers, pick a religious venue or a separate religious ceremony alongside a civil one.

Next, think about your guests. Decide who you will invite and how you will tell them. Invitations can be paper or digital, but make sure you collect responses and dietary needs. A wedding website can help share directions, timings and gift list details, but keep it simple if you prefer.

Then plan the day itself. You will need outfits, a way to get to the venue, and food and drink for your guests. Decide on a timeline for the ceremony, photos, and the meal or reception. Think about music, readings and any cultural or faith traditions you want to include. If you are having a humanist ceremony in England and Wales, remember it is not legally binding on its own, so check GOV.UK and your local register office for the current rules. Finally, book your witnesses and make sure they know what to do on the day.