Frequently asked questions
What do we do first?
First, we’ll organise a no obligation meeting to see if Canberra Celebrants is a good fit for you. We’ll chat about your plans for your ceremony, discuss any questions you may have, and get to know each other a little better.
If you’re happy to go ahead from there, we’ll arrange a time to meet and get your paperwork started. Your Notice of Intended Marriage needs to be completed at least one month before your wedding date, and we will need some or all of the following:
Original certificate of birth (This may be an Extract or Full Certificate) and photo ID, or,
If you have an Australian Passport, this is all you need
If born overseas you don’t have an Australian passport, your overseas passport or, your birth certificate
If you have been previously married, the Decree Absolute or Divorce Certificate
If you are a widow or widower, the Death Certificate of your late spouse
If any certificates are written in a language that the solemnising celebrant cannot understand, a Translation by a registered translator is required.
Can we write our own vows?
Yes. Personalised vows add a beautiful element to any ceremony, and as long as you include a few required legal lines, you can be as creative as you like. We have a library of vow examples that we can share for inspiration, and will guide you with the words you need to say.
Can we include any traditions, ceremonies, special words of our own?
Yes. Essentially, there’s no one way to get married, so you can include whatever elements you like. We do have a couple of lines that must be included to be legally married, but we can help you create a ceremony that includes things that are important to you. We have examples of poems, readings and rituals that we can share with you to get you started.
Where can we be married?
You can get married anywhere in Australia. Some places do require approval from the local council or relevant authorities, and depending on where you choose, there can be some associated fees. There are a number of beautiful and free locations in and around Canberra, and we’re only too happy to share our favourite spots.
Do you travel for wedding ceremonies?
Yes. We love to travel! Our favourite ceremony spots are on the South Coast and Snowy Mountains, but tell us where you want to get married and we’ll be there!
Depending on the exact location, there may be some additional costs involved, but we’ll discuss and quote these to you upfront.
How many times do we meet before the ceremony?
We need to meet to complete your Your Notice of Intended Marriage at least one month before your wedding day. Depending on the ceremony style that you choose, face-to-face meetings could be up to 3 or 4 times. Read more about the inclusions in our three wedding packages here.
How long do the ceremonies take?
Depending on the style of ceremony you choose, we could marry you in 5 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for the Complete Ceremony option.
Who can be the official witnesses on the wedding day?
Anyone can be a witness as long as they are over the age of 18 and understand what you’re entering into.
What happens after the ceremony?
Canberra Celebrants will lodge all of the legal documentation with Births Deaths and Marriages (BDM), and notify you via email when it has been done. We also give you the necessary information you need to apply for your official certificate through the relevant BDM, should you wish to change your name.
Do we have to have a big wedding?
No. We respect that some couples may wish to be married in a more private or intimate setting and offer 3 styles of ceremonies varying in size and inclusions. As long as you have at least two witnesses present, you can choose the amount of people you invite to the ceremony. You can read more about our ceremony packages here.
Do Canberra Registry Office Weddings exist?
No. Canberra doesn’t have a Registry Office where you can simply turn up and get married. However, the good news is that we can create a similar experience for you in a location of your choice or in your own backyard. Once we have completed your Notice of Intended Marriage at least a month before your wedding day, you can be married in a ceremony that only includes the legal components and takes about 5 minutes. We can also arrange an option for you that includes a photographer, and can provide witnesses for an additional fee. Read more about which ceremony package is best for you here.
We were married overseas. can we have another ceremony here in Australia?
Yes. If you have been married overseas, we can arrange to have a Celebration of Marriage Ceremony in Australia. It can include all of the same sentiment and tradition, but won’t include the legal components - it’s illegal to be formally married again. We can help you create a memorable ceremony for your family and friends, and we provide a commemorative certificate as a keepsake.
Do we have to exchange rings?
No. If you don’t want to exchange rings, we can offer some ideas, or leave this part out completely.
What are the most popular places for a wedding?
We are definitely spoilt for choice when it comes to amazing ceremony locations in Canberra, and we’re more than happy to share our recommendations for a place that suits your style. There are a number of parks and forests that are free to use in the capital, or require an informal booking.
Some of our favourites include: Gold Creek Chapel, Pialligo Estate, Old Parliament House, National Gallery of Australia, National Museum, National Arboretum, Margaret Whitlam Pavilion, Gold Creek Station, The Boathouse, and Bushfield Farm.
We also know of a few hidden gems around town - just ask!
Can we use you as our Master of Ceremonies?
Yes. Michael Bower is a talented master of ceremonies. With over 35 years of experience, he’ll ensure your guests have a wonderful time at your reception. You can read more about what he offers here.