Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working with Leigh — from legal requirements to what happens on the day.
Getting Started
A Marriage Celebrant is responsible for creating, preparing, and delivering your ceremony in a way that reflects your story, values, and personalities. This includes writing the ceremony, guiding you through legal requirements, lodging paperwork, and ensuring your moment feels meaningful and memorable.
All Marriage Celebrants are registered with the Attorney General's Department, and you can search free of charge to ensure that I am currently registered and can perform your ceremony. Celebrants are also required to abide by a Code of Practice, which can be found on the same site.
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Australia
To be legally married in Australia, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old (exceptions apply only through court approval)
- Not be married to someone else (anywhere in the world)
- Not be in a prohibited relationship (e.g., parent/child, siblings)
- Give real consent to the marriage
- Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) at least one month before the ceremony
- Have an authorised celebrant perform the ceremony
As your Celebrant, I guide you through each step, so everything feels simple and stress-free.
The NOIM is the official document that notifies your intention to marry. It must be lodged with your celebrant at least one month before your wedding date and is valid for up to 18 months.
As your Celebrant, I help you complete and submit this form correctly.
You will need:
- Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate + photo ID)
- Proof of the end of any previous marriage (divorce order or death certificate)
As your Celebrant, I'll let you know exactly what applies to your situation and help you gather everything.
Yes. You must have two witnesses aged 18 or over present at the ceremony to sign the marriage certificates.
Australian law requires:
- The celebrant to state the Monitum, which explains the legal nature of marriage
- Each partner to say a legally required vow declaring their intention to marry
Substitute wording is available to ensure diversity and inclusivity, allowing your ceremony to reflect your unique relationship while meeting legal requirements.
As your Celebrant, I ensure all required wording is included while still keeping your ceremony personal and heartfelt.
In Australia, only a registered marriage celebrant can legally solemnise a marriage — so your friend cannot legally marry you unless they are an authorised celebrant. However, your friend can absolutely be involved by leading readings, hosting, or performing non-legal parts of the ceremony, while I handle all the legal requirements and paperwork.
Fees may differ with this arrangement — let's chat about what works for you.
Yes. After the ceremony, I complete and lodge all legal documents with Births, Deaths and Marriages so your marriage is officially registered, and I order a copy of your Official Marriage Certificate.
General Ceremony Questions
Most couples book 6–12 months ahead, especially for peak seasons. However, if your date is sooner, I'll always do my best to accommodate.
Note: under certain circumstances, you can get married at very short notice — Court approval is required.
Absolutely! I provide vow-writing guidance, examples, templates, and personalised support so your words feel authentic and true to you.
Yes — completely. It is your ceremony and your special day. It can be traditional, modern, light-hearted, cultural, symbolic, or a blend of everything that feels right for you. I work with you to shape a ceremony that truly reflects your relationship.
Yes. I happily travel across Melbourne, regional Victoria, and beyond — I can marry people anywhere in Australia. Travel fees may apply depending on distance, and I'll always discuss these upfront.
Most ceremonies run for 30–45 minutes, depending on readings, rituals, and personal elements you choose to include. A legals-only ceremony will typically take around 10–15 minutes.
I have a trusted network of qualified celebrants who can step in if needed. Your ceremony and legal requirements will always be protected.
Yes. Rehearsals help everyone feel comfortable and confident. We can walk through the ceremony, practice entrances, and finalise logistics together.
- A personalised ceremony crafted just for you
- All legal paperwork and lodgement
- Unlimited communication and support
- Vow writing assistance
- A high-quality PA system (if required)
- A keepsake copy of your marriage certificate, plus your Official Certificate required for legal purposes (e.g. proof for change of name)
Absolutely. I welcome and honour all cultural, spiritual, and family traditions. Your ceremony should feel like home.
You're not alone. I guide you gently through the process, offer alternatives, and ensure you feel supported every step of the way. Your ceremony should feel comfortable, not stressful.
Simply reach out to book an obligation-free chat. We'll talk about your story, your hopes for the day, and how I can help bring your ceremony to life.
Ready to Start the Conversation?
Every moment deserves to be honoured. Let's talk about yours.
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