Best Budget Wedding
It all begins with an idea.
Congratulations!
You have decided you don’t need all the bells and whistles to be officially united by marriage to your special person. You may just want an intimate ceremony, possibly in a place that holds some meaning to you, or just somewhere with a little more of your personality than the registry office.
More and more couples are choosing to skip the expensive wedding and reception, and instead invest time and money on themselves.
A growing trend for newly engaged couples is to elope, favouring a more personal celebration.
No more stressing about having to invite Great Aunty Joan that you haven’t seen since you were a baby, but your Mum really wants her to be there. Or numerous other uncomfortable situations.
A budget wedding can really save you time, stress, and money. And the good news is you can still celebrate with a family barbeque (or whatever takes your fancy) after the official ceremony. Which means, the small fortune you save is funding the honeymoon, or house for that matter, that you have dreamt about. The choice is completely up to you.
Getting in touch with Cheryl from Your Memories Made is the first step in finding out how you can make your thoughts about a budget wedding a reality.
Make your wedding unforgettable for all the right reasons, doing what is right for you.
Look forward to helping you achieve the beginning of your happily ever after!
Cheryl
We’re engaged!
It all begins with you and me.
Congratulations!
Now the journey to be married begins!
If you don’t know anyone who has been married recently, you may be unsure where to start once you have decided to marry your person.
It may seem obvious to some but you will need to decide on somewhere to get married. If you have somewhere particular that you have your heart set on, that should be your starting point, particularly if the venue you have chosen is heavily booked for the next 18 months. Once you have the venue, and date sorted, you can start your search for the numerous other details you want, and need for your special day.
On the other hand, you may decide on an intimate ceremony at home, or another low key location. If this sounds more like you, check out ‘Best Budget Wedding’ for an alternative approach. Cheryl from ‘Your Memories Made’ has some great experience, and ideas to assist.
In either case, you will need someone to marry you. This leads you to search for an Authorized Marriage Celebrant if you are wanting to be officially registered, and recognized by Births, Deaths, and Marriages as a married couple. You will need to have completed a ‘Notice of Intent to Marry’ at least one month prior to your wedding with the Celebrant you have chosen.
Keep in mind you will need some documentation to be sighted with the notice, that you may have to search, or apply for. In particular if you do not have original documents such as a Birth Certificate, or Divorce Certificate amongst others, it is a good idea to ensure you have allowed adequate time to obtain these to alleviate any unnecessary stress, with the big day fast approaching.
Your Celebrant will assist you with the necessary legal forms, and advise of the documentation you will require to be married.
You can check out my blog ‘Best Wedding Celebrant’: How to choose yours.
To find out more of what is legally required to get married, check out ‘What do I need to get married?’
Happy searching :-)
Look forward to assisting you in your journey to get married.
Cheryl
What Do I need to do to get Married?
It all begins with an idea.
Guide to Documents Required for Getting Married in Australia
Introduction
Planning to tie the knot in Australia? Congratulations! Before you walk down the aisle, it’s important to make sure you have all the right documents in order. This guide covers the key paperwork needed for a legal marriage in Australia, helping you avoid any last-minute surprises.
Legal Requirements for Marriage
To get married in Australia, you must meet certain legal criteria. Both parties must:
· Not be married to someone else
· Not be marrying a close relative
· Be at least 18 years old (exceptions exist with court approval for parties aged 16–18)
· Freely consent to the marriage
Documents You’ll Need
1. Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) Form
2. The NOIM is the first official step. It must be lodged with your chosen authorised celebrant at least one month, and no more than 18 months, before your wedding date. Both parties must sign the NOIM in the presence of an authorised witness.
3. Proof of Identity and Date of Birth
4. You’ll need documents to prove who you are and your age. Acceptable documents include:
5. Passport (Australian or overseas)
6. Birth certificate
7. Driver licence or proof of age card
Generally, the passport or birth certificate is required for date of birth, while a driver licence or passport will verify identity.
1. Evidence of Marital Status
2. If you’ve been married before, you must provide evidence that the previous marriage has legally ended. This may include:
3. Divorce certificate (decree absolute)
4. Death certificate of former spouse
5. Other Documents
6. If your name has changed, you may need to show a change of name certificate or deed poll. If documents are not in English, you must provide certified English translations.
Documents for Overseas Couples
If you or your partner are not Australian citizens or residents, you can still marry in Australia. You’ll need the same documents, but ensure foreign documents are properly translated and certified. No visa is required specifically to get married, but you must hold a valid visa to be in Australia.
On Your Wedding Day
On the day of your ceremony, you and your witnesses (usually two adults) will sign the official marriage certificates. Your celebrant will then register your marriage with the relevant state or territory registry.
After the Wedding: Obtaining a Marriage Certificate
After your marriage is registered, you can apply for an official marriage certificate from the registry of births, deaths and marriages in the state or territory where you were married. This certificate is essential for changing your name or proving marital status for legal purposes.
There is a cost involved to apply for it. Your marriage celebrant may offer this add on to stream line the process for you. Speak with Celebrant Cheryl at https://www.yourmemoriesmade.com.au/ if you’d like this value added service with your wedding package.
Quick Checklist
· Completed and lodged Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
· Proof of identity and age
· Evidence of divorce or death of previous spouse (if applicable)
· Certified English translations (if required)
· Change of name documentation (if applicable)
Useful Tips
· Lodge your NOIM as early as possible to avoid delays.
· Check with your celebrant for any additional requirements specific to your situation.
· Keep originals and certified copies of all documents safe.
· If in doubt, contact the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in the state or territory where you plan to marry.
Conclusion
Getting your paperwork sorted early will make your Australian wedding smooth sailing. With this guide, you’ll be ready to say “I do” with all the official boxes ticked.
Best wishes for your big day!
Cheryl
Best wedding celebrant: How to choose yours
Best Wedding Celebrant
Finding the Perfect Person to Make Your Big Day Unforgettable
Choosing a marriage celebrant is one of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your wedding in Australia. You can choose the perfect location, food, vows, and guests, but you can’t be legally married without an authorized registered marriage celebrant. The celebrant sets the tone for your ceremony and helps create lasting memories for you and your guests. With so many options out there, how do you decide who’s the best fit for your special day? Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect celebrant.
1. Understand the Role of a Marriage Celebrant
Marriage celebrants in Australia are responsible not only for leading your ceremony but also for ensuring all legal requirements are met. They prepare and lodge your marriage documents, guide you through the essential legal wording, and help personalize your ceremony to reflect your story as a couple.
2. Consider Their Style and Approach
Every celebrant brings their own style to the day. Some can be formal and traditional, while others more relaxed, humorous, or modern. Think about what kind of tone you want for your ceremony—light-hearted, heartfelt, spiritual, or somewhere in between—and look for a celebrant who matches your vibe.
3. Check Their Credentials
In Australia, celebrants must be registered with the Attorney-General’s Department. You can check the register to make sure your celebrant is authorised to perform marriages. It’s also worth looking into their experience—how many weddings have they conducted, did they come recommended, are they a member of a professional celebrant association such as the Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants?
4. Meet and Interview Potential Celebrants
Arrange a meeting or video call with the celebrants you’re considering. This gives you a chance to see if you connect with them personally. Ask about their process, their availability on your chosen date, how they handle unexpected hiccups, and how they’ll tailor the ceremony to suit your story and preferences. You should also expect the celebrant to ask about you, and your journey so far to get a sense of you, and your vision for your special day.
5. Review Their Portfolio
Most celebrants have websites or social media pages showcasing previous ceremonies, photos, and reviews. Read through these to see the variety in their work and feedback from other couples.
You will find there are any number of celebrants that will come up on your online search. Consider what are paid advertising services, and what are professional organizations that support celebrant members stay current, professional, and insured for personal and professional liability. Celebrant Cheryl at https://www.yourmemoriesmade.com.au/ is a member of the professional organization Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants, and has performed a variety of work for numerous happy couples.
6. Discuss Fees and Inclusions
Celebrant fees can vary widely depending on what kind of ceremony you require, their experience, location, and inclusions such as travel, rehearsal, personalized scripts, and legal paperwork. Make sure you understand what’s included in the price and whether there are any additional costs. A good Wedding Celebrant will be up front about what is included, and what isn’t. Don’t be shy to ask for a written quote or contract when discussing your needs.
7. Ensure They’re a Good Fit Culturally and Personally
If you have particular cultural, religious, or personal requirements, check that the celebrant is open and able to incorporate these elements into your ceremony. A top celebrant will respect your wishes and work with you to create a ceremony that’s meaningful for you.
8. Trust Your Instincts
Above all, trust your gut. The right celebrant should make you feel comfortable, understood, and excited about your wedding ceremony. If something feels off during your initial chats, keep looking until you find someone who feels just right.
Final Thoughts
Your marriage celebrant plays a huge role in shaping the memories of your wedding day. Take your time, do your research, and choose someone who genuinely cares about making your ceremony unique and special. With the right celebrant, your wedding day will be everything you’ve dreamed of—filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Ready to start your search for your ‘Best Wedding Celebrant’? There are plenty of Australian celebrants listed online and through professional wedding directories. Good luck, and happy planning!