How much notice do we need to give before we can marry? / How far in advance do we need to book you?
I am available to perform ceremonies at short notice, or to plan well into the future!
The Australian Law under the Marriage Act 1961 states that the Notice of Intended Marriage must be lodged with the celebrant at least one month prior to the wedding day. The Notice of Intended Marriage is, however, valid for eighteen months.
Please contact me to discuss my availability for your special occasion
Can we meet before booking you?
I always offer an obligation free meeting so you can meet with me and decide if I would be the right celebrant for you. I can answer all your questions and chat with you about your wishes for your special day.
Please contact me to arrange a time and location for a meeting!
Do you travel outside of sydney?
Yes, I am more than happy to travel outside of Sydney! I am a Sydney based celebrant and conduct ceremonies in all surrounding areas. There are so many amazing locations and the ceremony can be at any time, including sunrise or sunset.
The locations I work in in NSW include, but are not limited to: The Illawarra, Wollongong & Suburbs, Blue Mountains, Jervis Bay, Shoal Haven, Central Coast, South Coast, Southern Highlands & Tablelands, The Hunter Valley, Sydney City & Metropolitan If you have a different location in mind, please let me know - I am more than happy to travel for your special day!
How long will the ceremony last?
Depending on the content of the ceremony, the ceremony will usually last for 20 - 45 minutes
Can we write our own vows?
Yes, you are more than welcome to write your own vows, and I am also available to assist you to do this!
Please know that Mandatory legal vows must be stated, which can then be followed by personal vows. These legal vows must be audible to witnesses and guests. All other aspects of the ceremony are optional.
Do we have to write our own vows?
No, you don't have to! I will provide you with all the information you require with suggestions and samples of ceremonies at our initial meeting, and along the way. This can include helping you to choose vows that you believe will suit your special day
What will you wear?
I dress appropriately to the style of the wedding, but usually smart, stylish, and conservatively. However, I am happy to meet special requests!
Can we have music during the ceremony?
Yes you definitely can! Normally the ceremony has at least three pieces; one on entrance, one on signing, and one at the conclusion, but this is totally up to you!!
What about the weather? Do we need a backup plan?
I normally suggest that you have a back up plan, incase of adverse weather conditions. This could be as simple as providing umbrellas, to organising a marque, or having a second venue on standby.
Is the giving away ceremony necessary?
No, whether or not you choose to have a giving away ceremony is completely up to you!
We aren't very traditional...
That's no problem at all! This is your special day and your ceremony will meet your requirements and requests!!
Who does the readings? Will you bring the readings for the ceremony?
When we prepare the draft ceremony we would discuss readings and you can nominate who you would like to do them, or I can do them. On the day, I will provide a copy of all the readings
Can we use our own pen for the signing of the legal documents?
Yes you can... as long as it is black ink. I will also have a pen on hand just in case...
Do we have to have a rehearsal?
Having a rehearsal or 'run through' of the ceremony is entirely up to you!
Our family doesn't speak english...
An interpreter can be engaged for your family, if you wish, as it is important that guests hear and understand the ceremony. An interpreter would be absolutely essential if the witnesses did not speak English, and in this case, an official NATI interpreter would need to be booked.
is it etiquette to invite you to our reception?
No, it is absolutely not necessary to invite the celebrant to the reception. This is an expensive gesture and I always suggest my couples have their friends as guests
Further legal FAQs can be found here on the legalities page