Weddings

Congrats, you are getting married!!

It can be difficult to know where to start when planning your wedding ceremony.

All of a sudden you’re faced with selecting readings, writing vows, incorporating traditions or creating your own, inclusion of family and friends – it can be extremely overwhelming. That’s where I come in. My role is to guide you through this process and make it not only easy but enjoyable, too.

Together we will work to create the perfect ceremony that will be remembered with great joy by you and your loved ones for the rest of your lives. We can include tradition if that is what you would like or include any of the following ceremonies: rose/flower ceremonies, sand ceremonies, lover knot/handfasting ceremony, ring warming, candle lighting whatever takes your fancy and there are many to choose from. We can include members of your family or friends.

At our initial meeting, we will discuss your thoughts on the design of your ceremony, it’s essential that you trust and feel comfortable with your celebrant, so I offer an obligation-free meeting to see if I’m the right celebrant for you. The Marriage Act 1961 has several legal passages that must be recited, but the rest of the ceremony can be created to reflect your personalities and commitment to each other. Also at this meeting, you sign the Notice of Intended Marriage, which must be done no later than a month before the wedding.

Prior to the wedding, I must sight the following documents:

  • Photo ID, such as a driver licence or student ID and an Original Birth Certificate
  • Or a Passport
  • Either Divorce Order or Death Certificate of spouse (if applicable)

Between the initial meeting and your wedding day, we will communicate as often as necessary to finalise the details.

My equipment

  • Professional PA system with wireless microphone and 8-hour wireless battery life.
  • Signing table and chairs if needed.
  • Black Lecturn
  • Wardrobe – yes! You want me to compliment your wedding, so I will wear something that we agree is perfect for your special day.

I’m excited to learn more about the two of you and the life you share together.

Frequently asked questions…

What do we need to do first?
Book your celebrant as soon as you know the date, time and venue
How much notice do you need?
The Marriage Act requires at least one calendar month’s notice for the “Notice of Intended Marriage” which is valid for up to 18 months.
What do I need to bring to our first meeting?

You will need your birth certificates or passports and death or divorce certificates if previously married, your driver’s license or other legal forms of photo ID.

How many witnesses are needed?

You will need one witness each who must be over the age of 18 years.

Can we have cultural aspects in our ceremony?

Of course, you can. The Marriage Act is specific about the required legal wording to be used but as long as that is incorporated into the ceremony we can design the rest around your requirements.

Do I have to change my name?

No, there is no legal requirement for you to change your name after you are married. However, if you wish to do so, I will guide you through the process.

Get in touch for an obligation-free chat

Civil Celebrant • Funeral Celebrant • Marriage Celebrant

Marina Payne is a registered Civil Celebrant and is looking forward to working with you to make your special day flow easily and come to life. She is friendly, attentive, organised and professional.

0466 872 267

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