Question 1

When should we book you?

Accepted Answer

Sooner rather than later to avoid disappointment. You need to give at least a one months notice that you plan to marry.

Question 2

Do you perform weddings outside of Sydney?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I am happy to travel outside of Sydney. See 'fees and packages' for travel costs.

Question 3

How long should we allow for our wedding ceremony?

Accepted Answer

The ceremony length will be determined by your story and the elements you want to include. As a guide I would say to allow 30 minutes for most bespoke ceremonies from the moment the bride enters to moving on to the reception.

Question 4

Should the bride arrive late?

Accepted Answer

It's best to aim to be ready on time as your guests will arrive early and be eagerly awaiting your arrival and your husband may well be waiting nervously. Trust me, you will make just as much of an entrance arriving on time.

Question 5

Do we need a back-up plan for our ceremony location?

Accepted Answer

A wet weather plan will give you peace of mind that no matter happens with the weather you are going to have a relaxing wedding. Although saying vows in the rain can be romantic, all of your beautiful clothes, hair and makeup wont have quite the same shimmer for your wedding photos afterwards.

Question 6

Can we write our own vows?

Accepted Answer

Yes, reading your own vows is a beautiful and powerful part of the ceremony. I always recommend writing your vows although this can be a daunting task. You will find advice and recommendations in the information I will send you.

Question 7

Do we have to write our own vows?

Accepted Answer

If the idea of sharing your feelings in front of a crowd brings you out in a cold sweat or writing your own vows just isn't for you I can provide you with pre written ones you can use or adapt. I am sure you will find something which feels right for you.

Question 8

Are you able to do more than one wedding per day?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if the times and locations work I can happily accommodate more than one wedding. Please keep this in mind if you are thinking of changing the time of your wedding.

Question 9

What about music?

Accepted Answer

If the venue does not provide audio equipment we can play music through a portable PA system from an ipad or iphone. You just need to load the tunes you have selected and nominate someone to operate them at the right moment. I'll meet with that person before the ceremony and we can do a practice run through. You'll need a song for the bride's entrance and a couple for the end whilst the signing happens. I also highly recommend having a singalong song for the end and I can help you organise this. It ends the ceremony on a fun and upbeat note.

Question 10

Should I bring the vows and/or the readings for the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Yes, make sure your readers have their readings and you have your vows. I will also have a backup on my ipad.

Question 11

Do you know any good photographers, musicians, florists?

Accepted Answer

I sure do. I meet and see lots of great people's work. I will send you information about and recommendations.

Question 12

Some of our guests don't speak much English, can we use a translator?

Accepted Answer

Yes of course. We want all our guests to enjoy your ceremony. I am happy to work alongside a translator. I can provide a script for them to translate that is marked up so they know when I will pause for them to speak.

Question 13

How do I book you as my celebrant?

Accepted Answer

After you send your enquiry, I can provide a quote based on your requirements, my fees are also set out on the fees and services page. We usually chat on the phone, email, Skype or meet. To book my service and secure your date and time, I require a booking fee (non-refundable). This fee is deducted from the balance.

Question 14

What will you wear?

Accepted Answer

I will be smartly dressed in colours which complement your bridal party. I am happy to send you options in advance. And by the way in the photos where I am wearing white at a wedding I was requested to do so as the bridesmaids were in white, as well as the bride of course.

Question 15

We aren't really very traditional, can we personalise and stylise our wedding?

Accepted Answer

Civil ceremonies can take any style and vibe you like. They don't need to be formal. They can be funny, quirky, casual, cool. The wedding will reflect you and that's why I will get to know you before the day and build your personalities into the ceremony.

Question 16

I would love for a friend to perform the wedding. Is this possible?

Accepted Answer

Yes this is completely possible and something I love. You can find details of this package in the fees and services page. I can work with a friend or family member of yours to guide them through writing and presenting a ceremony. I will take care of the legal paperwork and on your wedding day I will say the legal lines to make the wedding official. The rest can be done by someone special to you.

Question 17

What are the legal requirements to get married in Australia?

Accepted Answer

I will of course be guiding you through all the legal requirements for your marriage to comply with the Marriage Act 1961 so there is no need to study them. However to prepare yourself: you must be over 18, lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NoIM) at least one month prior, complete a Form 14 declaration, provide valid ID (birth certificate or passport), and have two witnesses aged 18+ on the day. If previously married, a divorce or death certificate is required. Non-English documents require NAATI translation. I will provide you with the necessary forms and take care of lodging the legal documents with the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.

Frequently asked questions.