Question 1

How do I know if you're the right celebrant for me?

Accepted Answer

I think it's important to choose a celebrant that you connect well with. For this reason, the first thing I like to do upon hearing from couples is organise an obligation-free phone or video call. This allows you to get a feel for who I am and ask any questions you might have.
My aim in the lead up to your wedding is to build a really solid relationship with both of you so that you almost feel like I'm a mate standing there with you on the day!
 
If you'd like to know a little bit more about me, jump over to my About Me page.

Question 2

How far in advance should I look to book a celebrant?

Accepted Answer

I find that the venue and celebrant are usually among the first two vendors to be locked in. Many couples begin making enquiries 12-18 months prior to their planned wedding date. It's particularly important to book this far in advance for Friday-Sunday afternoon ceremonies or significant dates (e.g. 02/02/22) as these are most popular.
 
If you'd like to check my availability, you can submit a form or view my contact details on my Contact page.

Question 3

What is the process in the lead up to my wedding day?

Accepted Answer

After you've locked me in as your celebrant we will have an in-depth meeting to go over a wedding checklist for you and sign your Notice of Intended Marriage. From here I will develop your ceremony script, incorporating individual answers from each of you to create your personal story. I will provide you with a draft of your ceremony script prior to your wedding day for your approval.
 
I will be on hand at any time to answer questions you might have or to provide recommendations or support in the lead up to your wedding.
 
For a more detailed timeline of the process, see my step-by-step guide on my Packages page.

Question 4

Do you cover the legal aspects of the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I do the legal paperwork with you prior to your ceremony. Your Notice of Intended Marriage must be completed at least 30 days prior to your wedding and lodged with an authorised celebrant.
During your ceremony, it is my duty to recite the legal monitum and oversee your legal vows to officiate the ceremony and allow your marriage to be legalised. Within your ceremony, your Official Certificate of Marriage will be signed by myself, the couple and their two chosen witnesses.
After your ceremony, I will lodge the necessary documents to Births Deaths and Marriages in your state to legalise your marriage. I can also apply for your Official Certificate of Marriage on your behalf - this is the document you would need to prove your marriage, change your name, apply for visas, etc.

Question 5

What is the payment structure? Do you offer payment plans?

Accepted Answer

To book me as your celebrant and secure your ceremony date, you will need to pay a booking fee (your booking fee will vary depending on your chosen package). I will hold your date for up to seven days from sending your invoice. The balance of your ceremony and/or MC fee is due 30 days prior to your ceremony.

You are welcome to make incremental payments along the way. Each payment received will be reflected on your invoice so you can keep track of the balance remaining.

If you'd like to chat to me more about this, please reach out as I like to be as accommodating as possible for the couples I work with.

My payment options include bank transfer, credit card or cash.

Question 6

Do you travel for destination weddings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I am more than happy to travel interstate or internationally for wedding ceremonies. My ceremony fees will generally be the same but please note that there will likely be additional fees to cover travel expenses and accommodation.

Question 7

Can you offer any guidance with vows?

Accepted Answer

Your wedding vows are very personal to you and your partner but I know that it can sometimes be tricky finding a place to start. If you're after any inspiration or guidance on how to approach writing your vows, please reach out. We can have a chat over the phone for you to bounce some ideas off me or I can email through some resources that you might find helpful.
Both members of the couple will send their vows to me ahead of the ceremony for me to print and bring along for you on vow cards.

Question 8

What should I expect from you on the day of my wedding?

Accepted Answer

I aim to arrive at ceremony locations at least one hour prior to the start time. I will touch base with the other vendors at the location to make sure everyone has a clear idea of how the ceremony will run - e.g. I will chat to the venue coordinator, photographer, videographer, musician, etc.
I will also set up and test my speaker and microphone and place the legal documents on your signing table. I will have my iPad which I read the ceremony script from and operate your ceremony music from if required. I will also have your printed vow cards.
 
If you and/or your partner are getting ready nearby at the ceremony location, I like to come say 'hi' and see how you're feeling if you're happy for me to do so.
 
The ceremony itself runs for approximately 15-30 minutes. After I announce a couple as married, they usually do a happy exit back down the wedding aisle and mingle with guests for a short time before doing family/couple/bridal party portraits.
 
I usually hang around for a short time after your ceremony as I pack down my equipment and offer you my congratulations. Occasionally, if required, I will assist the photographer with announcing group portraits.

Question 9

What happens after my wedding?

Accepted Answer

After your wedding, I will lodge the necessary documents to Births Deaths and Marriages in your state to legalise your marriage. I can also apply for your Official Certificate of Marriage on your behalf - this is the document you would need to prove your marriage, change your name, apply for visas, etc.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions