Getting Married In Australia
All the rest!
1: Arrange 1st Meeting – to run through what’s involved
The most rewarding aspect of my work is meeting couples from all different walks of life and getting to know them. During our first meeting we will fill in the NOIM and I will get a feel for how you see the ceremony unfolding.
2: Creating your Personalised Ceremony
Every couple has their own idea about their ultimate wedding ceremony, and there is a lot to be considered ie. The feel of your ceremony, participants, venue, outdoor vs. indoor, music, vows, rings, special requirements etc.
Once I have gathered your ideas and talked through my suggestions, I will put it all together and provide you with a draft to get creative with.
3: Closer to the Day
Over the months leading up to your wedding day, there will be a considerable amount of communication between us, whether it is by email, SMS, video call, or phone. Closer to the day I will collect any outstanding documents, finalise the ceremony, and sign the final declarations.
4: Witnesses – one for each of you
The wedding ceremony must be witnessed by two people who are at least 18 years of age. Witnesses must be able to understand the language in which the ceremony is spoken by all parties. If English will not be spoken at any stage during the legal parts of the marriage, an Interpreter must be arranged. Witnesses will be required to witness the ceremony, especially the legal requirements, and sign the certificates.
5: Your Wedding Day
I will arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled time of your ceremony.
This is what takes place before the ceremony begins:
- I will speak to participants ie. readers, music operator/musicians
- Finer points and special requirements will be discussed with your photographer and videographer
- I will meet your bride/groom/partner and their bridal party as they arrives to make sure they’re ready, and to coordinate the processional.
- By now, you will be ready to walk down the aisle with confidence, making the most of every step, to join the love of your life.
6: Terms Of Payment
Payment for all outstanding monies is due by midday the day prior to your wedding.
THE PAPERWORK
1. Get your documents together
Evidence of Date and Place of Birth.
You are required to provide proof of date and place of birth by either original birth certificate or passport. If you cannot find your original birth certificate and were born in Australia, you can obtain your birth certificate by applying at Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages in your State.
Passports can be either current or expired, however cancelled passports will not be accepted.
All documents must be legible in the English language. If your documents are in a language other than English, they must be officially translated by NAATI http://www.naati.com.au/
Establishing your identity
You must also provide one form of photo identification ie. drivers licence, passport, or proof of age/photo card.
Previous Marriage
If you are divorced you must provide a court issued Divorce Certificate. If you are widowed you must provide an original Death Certificate. Certificates must be legible in English.
2. Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) - Victorian Residents
(Due at least one month prior to your marriage)
You must complete the NOIM and submit it to me at least one month prior to your Wedding Day; your completed NOIM is valid for 18 months.
2. Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) Non-Victorian Residents
If you live outside of Victoria, please download and complete your State’s equivalent of the NOIM document from Births, Deaths, and Marriages. Once completed you can forward this to me via email.