If you have chosen your location and set a date, let’s chat! I book up quickly so give me a call to avoid missing out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the wedding celebrant do?
You cannot have a legal wedding without an authorized celebrant.
I kick all your legal goals, I write your ceremony after getting to know you both and create a day that is in alignment with you as a couple. I thoroughly plan for your day and make arrangements for your rehearsal. I perform the ceremony, complete all of your certificates and make sure your ceremony goes smoothly and to your expectations!
Do we have to memorise our vows?
No you don’t. 🙂 No one really does and my advice is to not put this added stress on yourself! I will take care of everything. You can repeat them after me (I whisper them to you without anyone hearing me,) or, you can read them from a card I create and bring for you.
Can we write our own vows?
Of course! And if you need some inspiration, I have soooooo many resources and real vow examples to help you.
How long does a ceremony last?
Ceremonies usually take about 30 minutes. It depends on what you choose to include. Bridal party entrance, the spoken parts, signing of documents and then Mr & Mrs walking down the isle.. its all up to you.
Can we exchange gifts instead of rings?
Absolutely! You don’t have to legally exchange rings to make the marriage official.
What sort of music will I need for my wedding ceremony?
Totally up to you! You are able to Bluetooth to my PA system and I recommend choosing at least 3 songs:
- Walk down the aisle
- Signing of the register
- End of the ceremony
You will need to choose a person who can take responsibility for the music so make it easy for them by labelling them clearly.. aisle song, signing song, finishing song etc.
Is a wedding rehearsal necessary?
I recommend a rehearsal if you have a big bridal party and particularly if kids are part of the day. It also an opportunity for the wedding party to relax together in fun before the big event.
If it’s not possible, or you don’t have time, don’t worry, I will be there to direct everyone on the day.
Do you bring a signing table & chair?
No I leave that up to your event hire or decorators. This allows me to just concentrate on the most important part of your day – the delivery of the ceremony.
Do you need a wet/windy weather plan?
Yes, this a great idea! It means you can remain calm and enjoy the time getting ready, instead of organising venues on the day of your wedding.
Not after a traditional style wedding?
You don’t have to have a formal or traditional ceremony. We can make your day modern, relaxed, friendly and casual, funny, elegant and simple – or anything you like.
What does your fee include?
I am experienced, highly sort after and offer a premiere service to each and every one of my couples. I believe my fee is fair, & reflective of the level of service I offer for the most important part of your wedding day.
The fee is inclusive of all legal documentation before, during and after your wedding ceremony, all meetings, writing your ceremony, a rehearsal, solemnizing your marriage on your wedding day, travel time (within the Byron and Tweed Shires) and telephone calls.
What will you wear?
I always coordinate my outfits with your bridal party, flowers or to your suggestion.
Please don’t be late.
Please treat your guests and bridal party with respect. Most of all, think of your partner – they’re waiting for you! If you’re late you’ll probably run out of time for your photos.
What does a wedding ceremony look like?
Your ceremony can be as traditional or unique as you would like it to be. You can have just the minimum legal wording or include elements such as poems, readings, rituals, music and dance. An example is below:
- Entrance of the wedding party (Optional)
- Welcome/Introduction
- Personal blessing from me
- Giving away of the bride (Optional) (eg: “Who gives claire to be married to this man?…”)
- Monitum – Legal wording spoken by the Celebrant from the Marriage Act
- The Asking (Optional) (eg: “Do you take James to be your husband?…”)
- The Vows (Your promises to each other)
- Second Poem/Reading/Ritual/Prayer/Music/Dance (Optional)
- Ring Ceremony (Optional) (exchange of wedding rings)
- Conclusion and Declaration (“… I now pronounce you husband and wife.”)
- Signing the Marriage Register
- Presentation of the Marriage Certificate (Optional)
- Exit of the bridal party (Optional)
We want to elope, what do we need to do?
It’s easy! All you need is to complete the legalities with me and have two people, who are eighteen years old or over to witness your wedding ceremony.
We want to get married in a park, on a beach or on private land. do we need permission?
Yes. It is best to contact the local council, land owner or National Park in the area you want to get married to see if there are fees or restrictions.
What do I do if I can’t find my original documents?
If you were born in Australia, you can obtain a copy of your birth certificate and if applicable, a death certificate of a former spouse from the Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages, in the state in which you were born. If divorced you can obtain a copy of your Divorce Order from the Family Law Court in the state in which your marriage was dissolved.
Can our children be part of the ceremony?
Yes. There are some lovely ways to make children feel special and involved for your ceremony.
What do I need to do to change my surname after marriage?
If you were married in Australia and want to update your drivers licence or passport to your married name, you do not need to register a change of name. Instead, you will need to present your official marriage certificate as proof of marriage.
If you were married overseas, you may need to apply to register a change of name. Different organisations have varying requirements. Check with the relevant organisations before submitting any application.
What proof of marriage will I receive on my wedding day?
On your wedding day you will receive a certificate signed by you and your witnesses and I’. This certificate is for your own records. This certificate may not be accepted as proof of marriage for official purposes, such as updating your driver licence or passport to your married name.
