Change of Name
A number of couples now either retain their surname after marriage, or use the hyphenated name which includes both of their names. If this is the case the process becomes a legal change of name and you can get a Name Change Kit at www.afterthewedding.com.au. If one of the couple chooses to change their name to the partners then there is no need for a legal name change. If you do with to change your name then you will need to contact the various organisations of services concerned such as drivers licence, bank, passport etc. You may need to purchase the legal marriage certificate from the Births, Deaths and Marriages.
What name does the Bride sign on the day of the Wedding?
The Bride must sign her MAIDEN name on all documentation on the day of the wedding.
What happens in the event that we have to postpone our Wedding?
Sometimes situations occur that may require you to postpone the wedding. The Notice of Intended Marriage is valid for 18 months therefore it is possible to re-schedule your wedding and I would endeavour to assist you in any way with a new booking date.
How long will the Ceremony take?
The average time for a Ceremony is around 15 – 20 minutes. This of course will vary depending upon how many readings or poems you would like included.
How many poems or readings is the right amount?
This is personal choice, however 1- 2 is appropriate and ensures that your Ceremony is not too long.
We want to arrive at the ceremony together, is this suitable?
This is absolutely your personal choice – there is no reason why you can’t do this if that is what you would like.
Do I (Bride) have to be given away?
I prefer to say presented as in this day and age no-one should be “giving “anyone away. Either member or both of the couple can be presented if they wish.
Who usually gives the Bride away?
Today many Brides/couples choose not to follow tradition to have the father of the Bride/couple presenting them to be married. It really is a personal choice and it can be anyone you choose, or you may choose not to be given presented by anyone.
Is it still fashionable for the Bride to be late?
Be mindful that you may have to vacate your venue by a certain time and also that if your ceremony begins late then this may affect the schedule for the rest of the day. It is also important to be mindful of your guests, who may be elderly and become hot, tired and thirsty if it is a hot day and being held outside.
Should we have some seating for our guests?
It is a good idea to provide chairs for the elderly and family. How many will depend on how many people you think may require seating. Usually a dozen chairs are adequate.
What would happen if the Celebrant gets sick?
A Celebrant would have to be incredibly ill not to attend your ceremony. If that was the case, then they would call upon some of their other referral celebrants to perform your ceremony and transfer all the legal documentation for them to finalise.
What happens if I need to change my Marriage Celebrant and I have already completed a Notice of Intention to Marry Form?
It is very unlikely, but if for some reason you need to change your Marriage Celebrant, you will need to obtain the Notice of Intended Marriage form that you lodged with the original celebrant and give it to your new celebrant or fill in a new form and wait a further month and one day. The original celebrant may charge a fee for work performed when passing on the form. The Celebrant by law must pass on the NOIM.
When would my Ceremony require a Portable PA system?
Celebrants must ensure that all persons at your ceremony can adequately hear the ceremony.
How long before the wedding does the Celebrant have to arrive?
According to the Celebrant Code of Conduct, all celebrants must arrive at the ceremony at least 20 minutes beforehand, unless an alternative arrangement has been made with you.
Is it important to have a Rehearsal?
Yes it is always important to have a rehearsal prior to your Wedding Day. It is at your rehearsal that we can discuss the placement of the bridal party and your guests and make the best out of your chosen location. It is not always possible but a good idea if all those participating in the ceremony are able to attend.
After you are married
On the day of your wedding, you will sign three marriage certificates. Each certificate should be signed by you, your celebrant and two witnesses. Your celebrant will give you one of the certificates as a record of your marriage.
Your celebrant must register your marriage within fourteen days of the ceremony with the registry of births, deaths and marriages in the state or territory that the ceremony took place.
The certificate issued by the registry of births, deaths and marriages is required for many official purposes. You should apply for a copy of this certificate from the registry after your wedding.
Making a complaint about a Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrant
Speak to your celebrant early if you have concerns. If you can’t resolve the issue you can find more information on the complaint about a marriage celebrant page.