Frequently Asked Questions and Legal Matters
A collection of some of the most frequently asked questions
It’s normal to have a mountain of questions when preparing for any type of ceremony. It can often be a daunting task to try and locate the answers to these queries and it’s hard to know where to start. Below we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions in one convenient place. From things like, what is legally required in your chosen ceremony, how long should it go for or as simple as “where do I start?” and “how do I book my dream affordable wedding?” we’re here to help. Hopefully this helps clear any questions you may have but please do not hesitate to contact us on 0433 847 853 or by submitting the contact form via the contact tab
How much notice do I need to provide to legally marry in Australia?
It is a legal requirement to complete a Notice of Intention to Marry (NOIM) and the marriage must take place no earlier than one month after the authorized celebrant receives the NOIM. This form is valid for 18 months.
At least one signature must be signed in the presence of a Marriage Celebrant, J.P., Police Officer or Doctor (either the Bride or the Groom). It is at this time that I require a non-refundable deposit.
Where do I obtain the ‘Notice of Intended Marriage’ form?
I will provide you with the NOIM, and I will complete the form at our first meeting, you will sign the NOIM and I will witness and sign.
What does a Celebrant do?
As your Celebrant, I attend to all your legal paper work, assist you in composing wedding vows that are unique to both of you, to create a personalized wedding ceremony of your special day that reflects your lifestyle and relationship.
How soon should we meet with our Celebrant?
I would advise that you meet your Celebrant as soon as you have set the date of your wedding, keeping in mind that not only wedding suppliers, but also Celebrants become busy during peak season, which is from September to April so booking in advance is advised.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
If born in Australia – Your Birth Certificate and drivers licence or Passport
If born Overseas – Your Birth Certificate or Passport showing the date and place of your birth
All documents must be original or certified copies. Photocopies are legally not acceptable
If previously married – You must provide evidence of how your previous marriage ended such as a Divorce Certificate - decree absolute or a Death Certificate of your previous spouse. If either party has changed their name with Births, Deaths and Marriages, the official ‘Change of Name’ document must be provided
All documents must be in English, overseas documents must have an official translation to English. If you require documents to be translated, please visit http://www.naati.com.au
Who can be my witnesses?
You can have anyone to be your witness as long as they are over the age of 18
What is a Monitum?
In Australia under the Marriage Act – Section 42 (A) there is a requirement by law that you say a legal vow to one another.
How long does the ceremony take?
Depending on the package you choose, your ceremony will take up to 20 minutes, from the moment the bridal party walk down the aisle, depending on the length of your vows, readings, poetry and music, through to the signing of the register and our new Mr and Mrs walk down the aisle together.
All brides arrive late, how late should I be before arrival?
Its common courtesy to arrive on time or close to time, if you are worried about your guests arriving late, have your invitations printed with a slightly earlier expected arrival time so they miss none of your beautiful ceremony. Although it is your day, you still have to treat your guests, and most importantly, your husband to be, with respect, he would be sweating in his socks anxiously waiting for you.
Being too late will also mess with your entire schedule for the day. Your photo session will be rushed, canapés will spoil, champagne and beer will get warm and loose their bubbles, arrival at your reception will be delayed and they may also be on a tight schedule with further functions planned on the same day.
Do you provide the music?
I provide music throughout key moments in your ceremony which is played through my PA system, and there is no need for you to designate a guest to play the music for you, as I control your music selection from my iPhone throughout your gorgeous ceremony.
I suggest that you will require at least two “Aisle Songs” (the Processional), One for your bridesmaids and one for you, and two “Signing Songs” when we sign the marriage register and marriage certificates, and one happy, upbeat song for your recessional once you are pronounced ‘Husband and Wife’.
What about the Marriage Certificates?
On the day of your wedding, immediately after your marriage has been solemnised, you will be required to sign three certificates. The Bride must sign in her maiden name, and you are required to have two witnesses aged over 18 years old.
You will be presented with your marriage certificate prepared in a lovely font. This certificate is a keepsake only and cannot be used to legally change your name to your new married name, to do this you will need to apply for the official marriage certificate and I am able to provide you with the necessary form.
This document is recognised as legal proof of marriage which is produced when officially changing your drivers license, passport and banking details etc., to your married name. Once you complete the details you then send this to the Victorian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. They will then send you a certified copy of this marriage certificate.
PS: DON’T book your honeymoon tickets in your married surname. They won’t let you on the plane if the name on your passport is different to the name on your tickets!
How many guests can we invite?
Our packages are designed for up to 30 guests for the price as stated, with some of our venues offering to cater to greater numbers, there will be an additional fee ‘per head’ added.
Are children included as guests?
All guests are included in the head count (except toddlers under the age of 4)
What is included in the wedding packages?
The works! Authorised Celebrant, completion and lodgement of all legal paperwork to relevant authorities, your choice of our stunning listed venues, Brides Bouquet, Grooms Buttonhole, Wedding cake, canapés, food and beverage packages, PA system, music during your ceremony, professional photographer - and optional upgrades, professional videographer, solo acoustic artist, DJ and Hair & Make-Up.
How much will my wedding cost?
Our prices start at $ 895.00 for an elopement and $ 5,350.00 for a styled wedding in your dream venue , for more information please see our Wedding Packages page. The prices quoted includes everything for your gorgeous day, plus the option of upgrading additional wedding suppliers, so no hidden extras, no nasty surprises, all you need to do is turn up looking fabulous, ready to enjoy your day and say “I DO”.
How do I book my wedding?
Head to the contact page and fill out the booking form providing as much detail as possible about your wedding. We will respond as soon as possible to advise if your preferred date and time is available at your dream venue.
I have more questions to ask.
Thats ok, please feel free to drop us a line via our contact page, or give us a call so we can chat about your exciting wedding plans.