Frequently asked questions

Legal & Ceremony Questions

1. What does a marriage celebrant do?
A marriage celebrant is responsible for officiating your wedding, creating a personalised ceremony, and handling all legal paperwork to ensure your marriage is officially registered. When choosing your celebrant, ensure they are listed on the Australian Attorney-General’s Department’s register: https://www.ag.gov.au/families-and-marriage/marriage/find-marriage-celebrant

2. What are the legal requirements to get married in Australia?
To get legally married in Australia, you must:
✔ Be at least 18 years old (or have court approval if one party is 16 or 17).
✔ Not be married to someone else.
✔ Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) at least one month before your wedding (I will help you with this).
✔ Provide valid identification and proof of any previous marriage dissolution (if applicable).
✔ Have two witnesses over 18 at your ceremony.

3. When should we submit our Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)?
Your NOIM must be lodged at least one month before your wedding date and is valid for up to 18 months.

4. Do you handle all the legal paperwork?
Yes! I’ll guide you through the process, prepare all necessary documents, and lodge them with the Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages after your ceremony.

5. Can we write our own vows?
Absolutely! Writing your own vows is a beautiful way to personalise your ceremony. I can provide guidance and examples if needed.

6. Do we need witnesses?
Yes, you need two witnesses over the age of 18 to be present at your ceremony.

7. Can we have a non-legal ceremony?
Yes! With my Non-legal Ceremony package, I offer commitment ceremonies, vow renewals, and symbolic celebrations for couples who don’t need a legally binding wedding but still want a heartfelt ceremony.

Planning & Logistics

8. Where can we get married?
You can get married anywhere in Australia—whether it’s a beach, park, private venue, or even your backyard! Just check with the location beforehand to see if it requires a permit.

9. How long does a ceremony last?
Most ceremonies run between 150–30 minutes, depending on personal elements like vows, readings, and rituals.

10. Do you travel for weddings?
Yes! I am happy to travel for your wedding. Travel fees apply for locations over 50km from Lyneham, ACT.

11. What happens if you’re unable to attend on the day?
In the rare event that I’m unwell or unable to officiate, I will arrange for another qualified celebrant to step in.

Pricing & Booking

12. How much do your services cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of ceremony and location. You can find my service packages under the “Weddings” tab or contact me for a custom quote.

13. Do you require a deposit?
Yes, a non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking, with the remaining balance due before your wedding day.

14. What payment methods do you accept?
I accept bank transfers.

15. Can we meet before booking?
Of course! I offer a free consultation (in person or via video call) so we can discuss your vision and see if I’m the right celebrant for you. Send me an enquiry and I’ll get back to you to set up a time!