The Ultimate guide to getting Married in Australia

Stress Free - Easy way guide to getting Hitched Downunder

As your Marriage Celebrant I've got your back with this quick "HOW TO GET MARRIED" Guide

Planning a wedding can be an exciting and joyful experience, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the process or the legal requirements of getting married in a specific country. If you've set your sights on Australia as your wedding destination, you've come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through the step-by-step process of getting married in Australia, from legal requirements to wedding planning tips.

So let's dive in and make your dream of getting married in Australia a reality!

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  1. Understanding the Legal Requirements:

  • Eligibility: Learn about the eligibility criteria for getting married in Australia, including age requirements and relationship status.

  • Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM): Discover how to complete and submit the NOIM, an essential document for legalising your marriage in Australia.

  • The sooner the NOIM can be lodged the better! however it can't be lodged 18 calendar months prior to the ceremony, and the latest it can be lodged is one calendar month prior to the ceremony- although a Prescribed Authority may approve a shorter notice time in some limited circumstances.

  • As your celebrant I usually get this done 3 months out from your wedding!

  • I will send it into the state/territory Births Deaths and Marriages office after the ceremony and this form is supplied by me! or you can download it yourself from the Attorney General’s website: www.ag.gov.au

  • Been married previously? You must provide evidence of the termination of the last marriage.

  • 100 points of ID is a must and we as Celebrant must sight the original copy!

2. Choosing the perfect location:

  • Popular Wedding Destinations: Find inspiration for your dream wedding location, from stunning beaches and picturesque gardens to charming wineries and historical landmarks. I service the Byron Bay, Tweed Coast, Gold Coast and Brisbane region get in touch to get an exclusive offer on our Byron Bay/Bangalow Farm wedding venue!

  • As an experienced Marriage Celebrant in the Byron Bay, Northern Rivers area I have great ideas on perfect locations to suit your vibe!

  • Seasonal Considerations: Consider the climate and weather patterns in various regions of Australia to choose the perfect time of year for your wedding.

  • Thinking about an Elopement? You've come to the right place! There are so many gorgeous locations on offer throughout Australia! Happy Days offer a discounted rate on some venues in the Bangalow and Byron Bay area so get in contact to ask about these exclusive offers!

  • Your marriage can be soleminsed on a boat, Say whaaat?! Or get married while horseback riding on the beach.

  • How about take it a step further and get married in a hot air balloon! The options are endless, and I offer all of these options! I am an adrenaline junkie and an outdoor enthusiast.

3. Wedding Planning Essentials:

  • Budgeting: Understand the costs involved in planning a wedding in Australia, including venue, catering, photography, and more. Get tips on creating a budget and sticking to it.

  • Wedding Venues: Explore different venue options, such as beaches, gardens, hotels, and unique locations, to find the perfect setting for your special day, and get in quick! Popular wedding venues get booked out fast!

  • Accommodations: Discover accommodation options for you and your guests, ranging from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts.

  • Wedding Vendors: Learn how to find and select reputable vendors, such as photographers, florists, caterers, and musicians, to make your wedding unforgettable.

4. Ceremony and Celebrations:

  • Wedding Ceremony: Understand the different types of ceremonies available in Australia, including civil ceremonies, religious ceremonies, and cultural traditions. I personally do Civil Ceremonies which means there is only a small part of the ceremony that is the legal part - everything else is created to suit your vibe!

  • Legal Requirements: Ensure you're aware of the legal obligations during the wedding ceremony, including the signing of the marriage certificate and the role of witnesses - The signing of the marriage certificate is traditionally done during the ceremony however I have some ideas that will help make this part of the ceremony fun and exciting instead of tedious and boring.

  • Wedding Reception: Get tips on planning and organising a memorable wedding reception, from selecting a menu to choosing entertainment options. Get in touch and I can hook you up with an amazing wedding planner!

5. After the Wedding:

  • Registering Your Marriage: Learn how to register your marriage with the appropriate authorities in Australia or let me (or the celebrant of your choice) do it all for you!

  • Changing Your Name: Understand the process of changing your name after marriage, including updating identification documents and notifying relevant organisations - I have a discounted rate with Easy Name Change just email me for the link and I will happily send it to you! brittany@happydaysweddings.com

  • Post-Wedding Celebrations: Oh, Happy Days! soak in the bliss of new married life and explore honeymoon destinations within Australia or plan an overseas trip to celebrate your new union.

Now you are ready to rumble!

Planning your wedding in Australia can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and I hope that this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable insights and essential information to help you navigate the process with ease. Remember, it's essential to stay organised, keep track of deadlines, and enjoy the journey as you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Congratulations on your upcoming marriage and may your wedding day in Australia be everything you've ever dreamed of!


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