What are the fees to be married by Antoni or Penny?
- In our offices or within 60 minutes of travelling from Boronia we charge $400. This includes a bespoke ceremony written just for you, the preparation of your legal paperwork, your marriage certificates, and submission of your paperwork to Births, deaths and Marriages.
- If you would like us to travel over 60 minutes then we do charge a travelling fee of $50 per 30 minutes.
- If you would like us to bring our PA for voice and music, then we charge $150 for the use of the PA which will include the person to control the music.
- We have many extras as well such as signing lectern $50, wedding signs $50 and wedding arbours $100. If you would like to include these, please let us know.
How can I get legally married in Australia?
- You are over 18 years old and not already married
- You both agree freely to the marriage
- You have proof of identity (birth certificates, passports) and these must be original and translated if necessary.
- A Notice of Intended Marriage must be lodged with your celebrant at least one day and one month prior to your marriage and no longer than 18 months prior, signed and witnessed by an authorised person (to download form click here) or fill in the NOIM creation form under getting started on this website
- You must sign a document stating that you know of no reason why you cannot marry each other (that you are not related by blood or adoption, already married or under 18 years)
- You must provide proof of dissolution of any previous marriage (divorce or death certificate)
- That both the bride and groom and witnesses (2) must be able to speak and understand English otherwise an official interpreter must be present
- That two witnesses over the age of 18 years must be present
- That two compulsory components must be included in the ceremony – the celebrant’s authority and your vows
- That the Marriage certificates must be signed and witnessed
What do I provide as part of the service as a Melbourne Wedding Celebrant?
- We will attend to all legal paperwork.
- We will provide sample ceremonies, sample vows and sample readings
- We will create your personalised, individual Ceremony with your consultation.
- Table and chairs with white cloth, for signing of marriage certificate and marriage register if needed
- We will solemnise your marriage according to Australian Law.
- We will register your wedding with Births Deaths and Marriages.
- Complimentary commemorative Marriage Certificate.
- Personalised copy of your Ceremony.
- Extra travel expenses may be incurred if travelling over ½ hour.
- We will organise and order the official certificate on your behalf and will have it posted to you.
How much does the ceremony cost?
We charge $400 for the ceremony. This includes your customised ceremony, all legal paperwork, and both wedding certificates.
What is the difference between the Registry Office and Melbourne Wedding Ceremony?
Price is the big difference ($400 compared to $550 at the Registry Office) and that is because we do not have all the overheads. We are also are very flexible with where we can conduct your ceremony.
What do I wear?
I will dress appropriately for the occasion. If it is a themed wedding I will dress appropriate to the theme. I do however try to dress neutrally, to compliment the bride and groom. If required I would be open to any special wardrobe requests.
We want to have the ceremony and reception on a boat. Would I stay on board afterwards?
No. I would request that I am taken back to land after the ceremony if possible.
What happens in the event that we have to postpone our wedding?
The Notice of Intended Marriage is valid for 18 months, I am only too happy to reschedule the wedding with you.
Who can I have as my witnesses?
Anyone you like providing they are over the age of 18 years. You must have at least 2 witnesses. They may be from overseas.
Can I have a friend or family member read a poem at my wedding?
Yes, I have plenty of readings which I can recommend for all occasions.
How long will the Ceremony take?
The average time is 10 – 20 minutes but this may vary depending on how many readings/poems etc you include.
Do I have to be given away?
No this is a personal choice and is not a legal requirement.
Who usually gives the bride away?
This is personal decision and it can be anyone you like.
We want to arrive at the ceremony together, is this suitable?
Of course, it is your day, and your choice.
What happens if there are people around where we plan to hold the Ceremony?
Providing you have written approval from the relevant Council to hold the Ceremony, you have the right to ask them to move. I am happy to do this on your behalf.
Should we have some chairs for our guests – how many is the right amount?
Within our office, we have 6 seats available. If the ceremony is in another location, the quantity of seats is up to you.
What happens after the Ceremony?
After paperwork is signed, you are free to leave and go celebrate.
What would happen if you were too ill to attend the ceremony?
In the event that I am too ill, I have a group of celebrants I can call on who would perform your ceremony.
What name does the bride sign on the day of the ceremony.
Her maiden name as this is her legal name until after the Wedding day, once the Marriage has been registered with Births Deaths and Marriages.
What name should the bride use when booking travel/ honeymoon reservations?
Her maiden name as this is her legal name until after the Wedding day, once the Marriage has been registered with Births Deaths and Marriages.
I have some visitors coming from overseas and would prefer to be married whilst they are here. Is this possible?
As long as I am free on the required date we could perform the ceremony but if it is before the legal requirement of 1 month and 1 day, you would not be legally married until we repeat the process after the required time period. Your legal wedding date would be the later ceremony and this would be recorded on all documentation.
Can I play music during the ceremony?
Yes, you can play music as part of the ceremony as it does not infringe on any copyrights. If you would like to play music before or after the ceremony you would need to check that it does not infringe on any copyright laws.
Your choice of music is a very personal choice and would need to be provided by yourself.
Do you need to be an Australian Citizen to marry in Australia?
No. Anyone may marry in Australia providing you are both over the age of 18 and not legally married. If one or both of you is between 16 and 18, additional requirements must be met.
How much ‘Notice’ must be given to be married in Australia?
At least 1 month and 1 day. (In exceptional circumstances the Registrar may approve a shortening of time for the ‘Notice’)
Do we need to be in Australia a certain time before we can marry?
No. You can marry the day that you arrive from overseas if you wish. However, by law I must receive the Notice of Intention to Marry from you at least 1 month and 1 day before the wedding. To be on the safe side, send it early.
Will the marriage be recognised in my own country?
Yes. You should confirm this with your own government agency which records marriages in your country.
Can I marry anywhere in Australia?
Yes. An Authorised Civil Marriage Celebrant is permitted to perform a wedding ceremony anywhere in Australia, this includes Australia’s remote islands, rainforests, aeroplanes, boats, hot air balloons, at sea within 12 nautical miles etc. Please be aware that if the Celebrant has to travel the intended bride and groom must pay for the travel costs and in some instances the accommodation.
Where is an Australian Embassy?
For Australian Embassies, Consulates and Missions around the world click here.
Can we re-marry in Australia after being married in another country?
No. The only type of ceremony you would be able to have would be either a Renewal of Vows or a Commitment Ceremony.
Can two people of the same sex marry?
YES. Same sex marriages can be performed in Australia.
How many witnesses do we need and can they be related to us?
You need two witnesses present at your Marriage Ceremony who are over the age of 18. Any person can act as a witness, even your parents. The Celebrant, however, cannot act as a witness.
Can I use photo copies or certified copies of my legal documents?
No. All documents must be originals
Can we use legal paperwork that is in another language?
No. Before you can submit it, your paperwork will need to be translated into the English language by a recognised/registered translator.
How do I change my name?
On your wedding day, you will receive from me a commemorative certificate which is a numbered legal document. I will also apply to Births Deaths and Marriages in Victoria for the official copy which will be sent by mail. You can use this certificate to change your licence, passports, bank details etc.
How do I change my name if it is not mine or my husbands name already (ie make a family name)?
On your wedding day, you will receive from me a commemorative certificate which is a numbered legal document. I will also apply to Births, Deaths and Marriages on your behalf for your official wedding certificate. If you wish to use a different name then you would have to have an official change of name and Births, Deaths and Marriages will be able to assist.
How do I find a translator in Australia?
If you require a translator or interpreter within Australia, please visit the NAATI Website