Quick summary: New analysis of public opinion data reveals that 67% of British adults continue to view marriage as a relevant institution, demonstrating a stable long term trend where only 21% of respondents consider it outdated. Although modern couples are heavily rethinking wedding traditions by adopting highly individualized celebrations and practical budgeting hacks, their underlying focus remains firmly fixed on securing long-term partnership and mutual commitment. For public policy and societal well-being, this enduring resilience highlights that marriage is still widely valued as a foundational source of stability and hope, suggesting that evolving ceremonial trends do not reflect a rejection of the institution itself.
New analysis of YouGov data by Deacons reveals that a clear majority of British adults continue to view marriage as a relevant institution, with 67% saying it is not outdated and just 21% believing it is.
The figures point to a stable long-term trend. Since 2021, the share of respondents describing marriage as outdated has remained between 21% and 23%, while the proportion saying it is not outdated has consistently been higher, ranging from 63%–67%.
Weddings evolve, but commitment endures
This resilience in public attitudes comes at a time when weddings themselves are evolving, often becoming more personal and less bound by convention while remaining centred on long-term partnership. Celebrities are helping to drive that shift. Recent high-profile ceremonies illustrate how couples are reimagining marriage rather than rejecting it. Dua Lipa, for example, opted for a civil ceremony in a custom Schiaparelli skirt suit, a deliberate nod to Bianca Jagger‘s iconic registry office look from her 1971 wedding to Mick Jagger, blending fashion history with a contemporary interpretation of marriage.
Lee Heaven, a bridal jewellery expert at Deacons, said: “There is a real difference between rejecting marriage and rethinking how it is celebrated. Couples still want commitment, symbolism, and meaning, but they are making the experience feel more individual and reflective of who they are.”
“We are seeing that in everything from smaller ceremonies to more thoughtful jewellery choices. We see many couples putting more of their budget into pieces they can wear for years, engagement rings, wedding bands, and bridal jewellery that keep the memory of the day alive. People may be moving away from some traditions, but that does not mean they have stopped valuing marriage itself.”
5 money-saving wedding hacks that do not kill the romance
Practical considerations, particularly cost, also play a role in shaping modern weddings. Heaven offers five ways for couples to reduce expenses without sacrificing meaning
Cut the guest list, not the meaning
“The easiest way to cut costs without killing the romance is to rethink the guest list. Every extra person adds to your venue, catering,and drinks bill, so keeping it to the people who really matter can save a significant amount while making the day feel more personal.”
Choose off-peak dates
“If you’re flexible on timing, an off-peak date is one of the best ways to save money. A weekday or out-of-season wedding can be hundreds or even thousands of pounds cheaper than a peak-season Saturday, and your suppliers are often more available too.”
Make jewellery do double duty
“Bridal jewellery is an area where you can be smart. Choose pieces you know you’ll wear again, such as classic studs, a simple pendant, or a refined bracelet, so they feel like an investment rather than a one-day expense.”
Reuse and repurpose
“Look for ways to reuse and repurpose rather than buying everything new. Reusing ceremony flowers at the reception or borrowing and resetting family jewellery into a modern design adds sentimental value and can be more affordable at the same time.”
Skip what no one misses
“Finally, be honest about what no one will really miss. Favours, multiple outfit changes throughout the day, or large amounts of printed stationery are easy to drop if the budget is tight. Your guests will remember how the day felt, not whether they took home a goody bag.”
Heaven added: “Behind every percentage point is a couple choosing to stand up in front of the people they love and promise each other a future. Traditions may shift, and weddings may look different from one generation to the next, but the desire to celebrate commitment has not gone away. For many couples, marriage still represents hope, stability, and the start of a new chapter. That’s why the institution continues to matter long after the confetti has been swept away.”