Civil Ceremonies are fast becoming the ever popular alternative to Church Services.  You have the right to choose.  Your Wedding Day is something to treasure, and of course, you will want it to be unique and memorable in every way.  You may want to “totally” create your own ceremony.  You may need a little help from me, to make sure that the words you want to say, come from your heart and soul, or I will design a ceremony for you that will compliment your personality and style, ensuring your dreams and visions come to life for your special day.

Wedding Ceremony Format

Your wedding ceremony can be as simple or as elaborate as you want.   By law, your ceremony must include certain components for your marriage to be legal in Australia.  A basic ceremony format is outlined below:

Introduction and Welcome

It is here where family and friends will be acknowledged. 
You may mention why you are gathered here today,
and talk about your love for one another

Reading

(Optional)
A poem/verse can be read by a family member, friend or  
Celebrant

Celebrant Introduction

(Legal Requirement)
This includes the Celebrant Authority (Monitum) and a statement from the Marriage Act of 1961 explaining, the solemn and binding nature of Marriage, according to the law in Australia

Giving Away of the Bride

Traditionally performed by the Bride’s father, but can be done by a person of choice or the whole congregation

The Asking

This is where the Groom/Bride is asked if he/she takes the Bride/Groom, to be his/her lawful wedded wife/husband
(Do you take)

Vows

(Legal Requirement)
Many people today choose to write their own marriage vows, or you may want to
stay with more traditional vows. Whatever you choose, your vows should be written to reflect on the theme or style of wedding you have chosen.

I will help you write the words you want to say, which will express your love and feelings for one another, highlighting what this union means to you.

Couples may choose to memorize their vows, read them from a sheet, or repeat them after the Celebrant. 

It is probably wise to repeat them as you may be quite nervous on the day.

Ring Ceremony

A further confirmation of your desire to be married to each other,
 is symbolized traditionally with an exchange of rings.

Some couples choose to have only one ring for the Bride,
or prefer to give/exchange another symbol, such as a chain.

Readings

(Optional)
A poem or verse can be read by a friend, family member or the celebrant.
Alternatively, music may be played or a song sung.

Additional Ceremony

Some dare to be different, and choose to include an additional ceremony,
but this is entirely up to you.

Suggestions:

•   Ring warming ceremony
•   Hand-fasting
•   Candle ceremony
•   Rose ceremony
•   Stone casting

to name but a few.

 Marriage Pronunciation
Declaration of Marriage.

Kiss

Signing Of the Marriage Certificate and Register

(Legal Requirement)
Legal documentation is signed by the Celebrant, Bride and Groom and two witnesses, both over the age of 18

Conclusion

Presentation of the Marriage Certificate and of the
Bride and Groom to family and guests.

Lynda Payne
Authorised Marriage Celebrant

ARRANGING YOUR WEDDING - Click here