MAFs behind-the-scenes truths - Wedding planning details and how contestants are matched

A new season of Married at First Sight UK will premiere this evening - with 18 singles lined up to marry a complete stranger on the show.

The programme, which airs on E4, is known for its dramatic moments and has proved extremely successful with fans in the past. The first trailer for the latest series dropped on Monday, revealing the first four couples and promising many twists and turns.

This year, producers have also announced a schedule shake-up meaning the show will air from Sunday to Wednesday each week at 9pm on E4 and Channel 4 on demand, which deviates from the usual Monday-Thursday episodes. Here, we look at some behind-the-scenes curiosities die-hard fans may want to know ahead of tonight's premiere.

READ MORE: Inside Married At First Sight UK's 'most explosive' reunion yet for E4 series

How are contestants matched?

MAFs contestants are matched by a team of relationship experts who use extensive questionnaires and interviews to understand each person's personality, core values, life goals and preferences. Initially, producers select the participants through a rigorous application and vetting process, which includes medical and mental fitness checks.

Then, experts such as Paul Brunson, Charlene Douglas and Mel Schilling pair individuals based on their psychological profiles, their lifestyles and believes to create compatible couples. The matched couples meet for the very first time on their wedding day - and sparkles don't always fly between them.

How are weddings planned?

Contestants have a say in what they want their wedding day to look like, but ultimately it is the show's production team that arranges all the details including the venue, catering, floral arrangements and other logistics. The matched couples can select their engagement rings and wedding attire and can select their preference for different aspects of the wedding through a booklet.

The production team then compares the preferences of the matched couple and tries to find compromises that align with both individuals' tastes. The fact that producers are behind the organisation means many elements are often surprising for the couple - even key choices such as their honeymoon destination.

Costs, including everything needed to prepare the ceremony, stag and hen dos, as well as the honeymoon, are covered by the production.

Limited freedom while filming

While filming, the brides and grooms have limited freedom - and can only leave the house a certain amount of times per week, former contestant Luke Worley revealed. Stars also have their personal phones confiscated and are given a device by production which prevents them from having too much contact with the outside world.

Those who take part in the show are also not allowed to drink too much alcohol, according to Erica Roberts, who was matched with Jordan Gayle. She previously shared: "If [the crew] could see someone was having too much, or it was getting a bit out of hand, the alcohol would stop."

Do couples actually get married?

Even though the show is called Married at First Sight, the couples don't actually enter into a legally binding marriage on their wedding days. A spokesperson for the show previously said: "Following the Australian format, rather than legal marriages, the couples will make a lifelong commitment to one another at a glamorous ceremony, overseen by a wedding celebrant, that includes guests, bridal gowns, dancing, speeches and cake.

"After the ceremony and celebrations are over, true love is well and truly put to the test, as they embark on a luxurious honeymoon, before moving in with each other AND their fellow couples. Relationships will be put under the microscope, by fellow brides and grooms at weekly dinner parties – as well as by the experts, at recurring commitment ceremonies, where couples choose whether they want to stay in or leave the process."

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