FAQ's

Marriage Ceremonies

What are the legal requirements to be married in Australia?

You Must:

Be over 18 years of age
Not already be married
Not be related
Both consenting and willing to enter into the marriage
A one months’ notice must be given by signing The Notice of Intention to Marry form

What happens in the ceremony?

During the ceremony, there are four things that must happen.

I must introduce myself by name as an authorised celebrant,
I must recite the Monitum,
both parties must recite the legal Form of Vows as laid out in the Marriage Act, and
the couple, two witnesses and I must sign three marriage certificates.

Outside that we can create your dream ceremony, as simple or elaborate as you want!

...but I've been married before!

As long as you are no longer legally married and can supply evidence of the ending of that marriage - divorce certificate or death certificate of your previous partner, we can move forward. (see Question 04)

What ID documents do I need for you?

Evidence of date and place of birth e.g. original birth certificate or birth extract, passport
Photographic evidence of identity e.g. drivers licence, passport, proof of age card
Evidence of the end of any previous marriage/s e.g. divorce certificate, death certificate

Ideally these original documents should be sighted at the time of lodging your NOIM with your celebrant.

How long should a Marriage ceremony take?

A perfect time for the Ceremony is 20-30 minutes but this may vary depending on how many readings poems or rituals you include.

What does a celebrant do?

An authorised Marriage Celebrant is appointed by the Federal Government to solemnise marriages according to the Marriage Act 1961. They may solemnise marriages anywhere in Australia including outside the State or Territory in which they reside.

There are two main tasks - the legal side of the wedding ensuring paperwork is completed on time, accurately, solemnising your wedding on the day and then registering the ceremony soon after.

I can also help to design and deliver a ceremony that reflects the personality and wishes of you and your fiancé.

Many celebrants can assist with planning as they have seen many weddings.

Who can I have as legal witnesses?

Witnesses can be family members or friends, providing they are over the age of 18 years of age as they will be co-signing a contract.

When should I book you?

As soon as you have a date - it is really wise to find that perfect Celebrant who aligns with you and lock them in.

My calendar is filling fast and as with Photographers and venues - to get the best person... well me, to help you, guide you and support you through your planning and day - book straight away!