Frequently Asked Questions
Can we get married in Australia if we don't live there?
Absolutely you can! The legal requirements for marriage are the same for visitors and foreigners as they are for residents, and you do not need to stay in Australia for any length of time before or after the ceremony.
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Can we mIarry in Australia if we are not residents or citizens?
Yes you can. You will need to provide me with your passport details and if you have been married before, I must see evidence of the end of the marriage.
What are the legal requirements for getting married?
You must both be over 18 years old, not married to anyone else and not being forced to be married.
What legal documentation is required?
As your celebrant, I will make sure all the legal documentation is attended to. You must sign a Notice of Intention to Marry form at least a month before your wedding date. You also must sign the No legal Impediment to Marriage form.
Is a registry office wedding different from a celebrant-led one legally?
Although they are both the same from a legal perspective, a registry office will include only the legally required content. There is no scope to have it tailored to suit you, to reflect you as a couple or include any elements that you choose.
What vows do we have to have?
The legal vows are the only ones you legally must say to each other. “In the presence of these witnesses, I …. take you …. to be my legally wedded …..” . Besides that, many couples like me to read out the “I do” vows, as this is very traditional. Writing personal vows to each other to read aloud is also incredibly meaningful, and emotional!
What happens if we change our wedding date?
You wouldn’t be the first to do this! A good celebrant is prepared for anything. It’s really important to stay in touch with your celebrant throughout the leadup to your wedding. They should be regularly communicating with you. If you are changing your date and the celebrant is not available on the day, another celebrant can be found and a simple form is completed transferring the marriage to that celebrant. If your celebrant is available, assuming the 30 day notice period is still valid, everything can do ahead!
Where can we get married in Australia?
Pretty much wherever you like! Outdoor weddings are very normal in Oz. Whether it’s a backyard, a clifftop or a beach, we can make it happen. As your celebrant I can talk you through all the considerations. I can also suggest/scout some locations for you!
How long is a ceremony usually?
What do we have to say at our wedding ceremony?
Legally, all you need to say is your legal vows to each other, which you will repeat after me. Unless you prefer to memorise them! The “I do!” is lovely but not legal, contrary to what most of us imagine.
What happens if it's raining/a heatwave/freezing?
I’m your woman! Firstly, at the outset of your wedding planning, I’ll make sure you do have a plan B. I have plenty experience in making sure everything is covered. You want a celebrant who is the best contingency planner ever, while looking like it all just “happened”!
The BOM site is my best friend in the lead up to your wedding, and I will be in regular touch to cover all eventualities and what you’ll need to think about if it turns out we’re getting a 40 degrees plus day!
How long is a wedding ceremony with a celebrant?
It will vary depending on what we include, and that’s 100% up to you! Typically, expect anything from 15 to 30 minutes.