One of the main advantages of marrying in Australia is that once the legal requirements are met within your ceremony – you can basically do whatever suits you and your partner! Of course, everything is in keeping with good taste. If you are a couple that only want a very basic ceremony – that’s no problem. A few brief words along with the legal requirements will take 5 minutes max. Perfect, if your pressed for time.
For those couples wanting to personalise and make the most of their ceremony, the basic civil marriage ceremony format is below. Again – it is up to you what you want to include and what you want to mention.
WEDDING CEREMONY FORMAT
INTRODUCTION – Welcoming your Guests.
SPECIAL PEOPLE – acknowledging parents, significant family and /or children, special loved ones who can not be present.
YOUR STORY AS A COUPLE – shared times or special moments from your relationship along with your hopes, dreams & plans for your future together.
Some general WORDS ON LOVE AND MARRIAGE.
CELEBRANT AUTHORITY (MONITUM) MUST BE INCLUDED BY LAW.
THE ASKING is when you get to say the “I DO!!”
The VOWS as stated by The Marriage Act are the “magic” words that marry you! Of course – you can always write your own personal vows to each other!
THE GIVING AND RECEIVING OF RINGS – With this ring I thee wed!
A READING, A RITUAL or A BLESSING – can add another element to your ceremony but only if you wish!
The DECLARATION OF MARRIAGE & KISS is always followed by some Ohhs & Ahhs! Clapping & Cheering!
SIGN THE REGISTER whilst the photographer gets some pics, the music plays & your happy guests chat.
PLEASE CONGRATULATE THE NEWLY WEDDED – Mr & Mrs!!
(Most ceremonies are about 20-30 minutes in length)
The Marriage Register is signed after a civil marriage ceremony. Ceremony location: Nobbys Lighthouse, Newcastle, NSW
A sand ceremony is one way to add a ritual to your civil marriage ceremony. Every couple receives a presentation copy of ceremony.