Islam does not permit a marriage to be solemnized without the woman's consent; obtaining her consent is essential.
When the Prophet (PBUH) stated that consent must be obtained from both a virgin and a widow, I asked, "But a virgin would feel shy [to express her consent verbally]." The Prophet (PBUH) replied, "Her silence is her consent." Narrator: Aisha (RA). Source: Bukhari 6971, 6964, 5137.
My father arranged my marriage without obtaining my consent. Displeased with this, I approached the Prophet (PBUH) and informed him of the situation; he subsequently annulled the marriage. Narrator: Khansa bint Khidam (RA). Source: Bukhari 5139, 6945, 6969.
Although the bride's consent is essential, Islam does not permit a woman to conduct her own marriage ceremony. Instead, it must be solemnized by her guardian with her full consent. No such guardian is required on behalf of the groom.
The presence of a responsible guardian during the marriage ceremony offers women protection against men who might deceive or exploit them. A guardian—known as a Wali—is also necessary to ensure the woman receives her due rights, such as the Mahr (dower).
In verse 2:221, God commands men not to marry women who associate partners with God (polytheists) until they believe; in the same verse, He also commands that (your women) should not be given in marriage to men who associate partners with God until they believe. From this verse, we understand that while men may arrange their own marriages, the marriages of women must be conducted under the supervision of their guardians—or, in the absence of guardians, by community leaders.
Marry them with the permission of their families. (Holy Quran 4:25)
This verse also prohibits a woman from arranging her own marriage.
"There is no marriage without a guardian," stated Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Narrator: Abu Musa (RA). Sources: Tirmidhi 1020, Abu Dawood 1785.