FAQs
Planning a wedding isn’t something you do every day so there are going to be loads of questions you’ll think of along the way. Here are some of those questions with simple answers to shortcut your process. Don’t worry, if something’s not here just ask, there are no silly questions, only unanswered questions in regard to marriage. If you ask me something I’ve not come across before, I have a network of amazing colleagues I can collaborate with, several professional industry associations and the legal eagles in the Marriage Celebrant Licensing Section of the Attorney General’s Office. We’re not alone.
What if I have been married previously?
You will need to be either divorced and provide a copy of a divorce certificate or widowed and in possession of a death certificate.
Can you help me get my partner a visa to come to Australia to marry me?
Somewhat yes, once you lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage with me, and book my services, I can provide you a letter of support to send to the Department of Immigration along with your application for a visa.
What happens if we have to postpone due to another pandemic or lockdown or any other reason?
We will work together to re-schedule your special day to another date when I am free. If that’s not possible I’ll endeavour to find another Celebrant who is available to conduct your ceremony.
Who can be the legal witnesses?
You must have two witnesses at your wedding ceremony. they must be over the age of 18. I cannot be your witness however anyone else (conditions mentioned previously met) can.
Can we write our own personal vows?
The simple answer is yes. There are some legal vows required but you can add to them with your own. Ask me for my vow writing template when we meet.
How can we include loved ones who have passed away?
There are loads of opportunities if you want to acknowledge loved ones who can only be with us in our hearts on your special day. Ask me how when we meet.
I can’t find my divorce certificate, where can I get a new one?
You can apply here for a new copy of your Divorce Certificate: http://www.federalcircuitcourt.gov.au
We’re not comfortable with public speaking how much do we need to say?
You must say your legal vows which is one sentence, apart from that the speaking can be left to me. Ask me how when we meet.
Can we have a surprise wedding?
Your wedding ceremony can be a surprise for the guests but not each of you. Ask me how we can plan this amazing event when we meet.
Do we have to exchange wedding rings?
There’s no legal requirement to exchange wedding rings. If you don’t wear them and aren’t planning to, let’s leave it out.
How quickly can we be married?
Generally it’s one calendar month from the day you lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage form with me. There are exceptions to this with approval from the local Births Deaths and Marriages office. Ask me how when we meet.
How far in advance can we book you?
You need to confirm your booking with me at least one month in advance. There is no time limit into the future. We may need to re-do the Notice of Intended Marriage form but that’s not difficult.
How do I change my name after I’m married?
If you wish to change your name after marriage in Australia, that is take on your partner’s name, you don’t have to go through a Change of Name process. To change your name on important documents (driver’s licence, medicare card, passport etc) you will need to provide a copy of the Registered Marriage Certificate obtainable about one month after your ceremony from the Office of Births Deaths and Marriages.