Both parties must be at least 18 years of age. (With the exception of Section 12 from The Marriage Act 1961).

You must sign a declaration to state that there are no legal impediments to the marriage, (for example, being married to someone else with no divorce finalised, the bride and groom being too closely related etc.)

A Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) must be lodged with your celebrant no less than one month and no earlier than 18 months before your ceremony. (With the exception of Section 42 (5) of The Marriage Act 1961 - A ‘Shortening of Time’ - Ask me how.)

There are 4 things that MUST be said during the ceremony:

• I must always introduce myself

• The couple’s full names must be said at least once

• The Monitum must be said

• The legal vows must be recited.

You are required to have two witnesses at the ceremony who are at least 18 years of age

Curious about what a Civil Celebrant does? Let me break it down for you! Here’s a glimpse of what I’m responsible for:

• Craft unique wedding ceremonies that reflect your love story

• Work closely together to ensure the ceremony is personalised and meaningful

• Guide you through the legal requirements for marriage in Australia

• Ensure that all necessary documentation is completed

• Help choose vows, readings and rituals that reflect your values

• Officiate the ceremony on the day.

It’s important to note that Civil Celebrants in Australia must be registered with the Australian Government and comply with the marriage Act 1961. They go through a thorough training and accreditation process to become authorised to soleminse marriages.

Don’t settle for just anyone, get the celebrant you want – you will know if they are right for you!

They book out fast so try and book the one you want early!

If you have never been married before you will need to provide a copy of your;

Passport, or

Birth Certificate and Photo ID (e.g. drivers licence)

If you have been divorced, you will also need to provide;

Divorce Certificate (if you have been divorced more than once I will only need the latest certificate)

If a widow/widower, you will also need to provide;

Death Certificate of former spouse

Please note the following:

If your documentation is in another language you will need it translated by a certified NAATI-qualified translator

If your name differs from your Birth Certificate, I will need to see a previous Marriage Certificate or Change of Name Certificate issued by Births, Deaths & Marriages.

The surprise must be for your guests only, you can’t have a surprise for your intended as both of you must be fully aware that you are getting married and both have completed the legal documentation.

If you are booked in for the full shebang, I strongly recommend the couple, the bridal party and whoever else is involved in the ceremony (doing a reading etc) to attend a rehearsal. This is the time to walk through the logistics of your big day. What’s the order of the ceremony? When does everyone process down the aisle? Who stands where? What’s everyone’s role?

Yes, of course you can!