Question 1

The difference between a Legal Registration and a full ceremony?

Accepted Answer

A legal registration is paperwork with the bare minimum legal requirements. This is just the legal bit.
NO ceremony, personal vows, music, readings, styling, your love story, guests, and all the elements that make it a celebration.

Question 2

Why would someone choose legals-only?

Accepted Answer

Lots of reasons! Most commonly for:
- Immigration purposes
- Australian Registration before an overseas wedding
- Your pregnant or have no family in Australia
-  No family, don't like your family, or too much opinion from family
- Marriage before a partner deploys overseas.
- Some just hate fuss and want to keep it simple.
All very valid!

Question 3

Is it romantic?

Accepted Answer

That's up to you. It can be quick and transactional, or we can make it warm and meaningful in our own way.

Question 4

Do we need to wear anything special?

Accepted Answer

Nope. Come as you are. Jeans, work clothes, trackies - doesn't matter.

Question 5

Do we have to say vows?

Accepted Answer

You have to say the Legally required Vows – which are 1 sentence. Repeat after me (I'll guide you through them). That's it. No personal vows required.

Question 6

Can we bring anyone else?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can bring the two required witnesses or advise me and I can provide them for you. Additional guests can watch but won’t have a role.

Question 7

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Less than 3 minutes of formalities but allow 15-20 minutes from start to finish as I'm sure we will get chatting.

Question 8

Can we do this before our "real" wedding?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Lots of couples do a legal registration first, often in private - then have their reception party or celebration later as a commitment ceremony. Just know that legally, you're married from the moment you say your legal vows.

Question 9

Do I need to complete the Notice of Intention to Marry?

Accepted Answer

YES I can assist you to complete the Notice of Intent, even if your marrying with another Celebrant, or Marrying Interstate.

Question 10

Limitations & Deadlines

Accepted Answer

The Marriage Act states the NOIM must be completed, signed and lodged at least one month before your wedding and no more than 18 months in advance.

This is the official paperwork that declares your intention to marry. Must be completed with your celebrant - can be done in person or via video call. Bring your ID (birth certificate, passport, evidence of birth).

Question 11

I require a Fiancé Visa Letter

Accepted Answer

I can provide a supporting letter for your Partner Visa or Fiancé Visa application. After the NOIM is complete and lodged with me, the letter is confirming the process to enter into marry is being followed, I am available and willing as your Celebrant's to Solemise your Marriage.

This letter is required by the Department of Immigration as evidence of your genuine relationship and intention to marry in Australia. Can be provided after your NOIM is lodged.

REGISTRY STYLE 'LEGALS ONLY'

CONTACT SHARON

The Process

STEP 1: Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)

You must complete and lodge your NOIM with me at least one full month before your wedding date (and no more than 18 months in advance). This can be done in person or via video call. You'll need ID - birth certificate, passport or Birth Certificate. Death or Divorce Certificate if married before

STEP 2: Choose Your Date & Time

Pick when and where you want to sign. This can be at my home office, your home, a park, wherever is convenient.

STEP 3: Bring Two Witnesses

Your witnesses must be over 18 and able to understand what's happening. They can be friends, family, or even strangers - it doesn't matter legally. They just need witness the legal words, to watch you sign and then sign themselves.

STEP 4: The Day - What Actually Happens

You arrive. I confirm your identities. We run through the legal requirements:

I read the Monitum (the legal statement from the Marriage Act.

You each say the legal vows - you repeat after me

You sign the marriage certificates

Your two witnesses sign

I sign - Done.

I present your Marriage Certificate to prove your - Legally Married.

STEP 5: After

I offer same day Registration with Births, Deaths & Marriages. You'll receive your official marriage certificate in the mail 4-6 weeks later, (or you can fast-track it for a fee).

Optional Services

Frequently asked questions