Marriage celebrants make getting married easy and fun. However, because there are so many celebrants out there finding one who really makes your wedding enjoyable is important yet a bit difficult. Below we take a look at a few questions you should ask the celebrants you are considering. This should help you find the right one for your wedding.
What does your service offer that others do not?
Generally, all celebrants offer pretty much the same thing except for some may be more flexible than others. That said you should find a celebrant who is willing to do exactly as you desire. Many will offer their guidance when it comes to organizing your ceremony as well as probably offer a few extra tips on making your wedding more memorable. Ideally, you will want to find a service who will consult you for everything regarding the ceremony prior to finalizing it.
What rules do you have regarding where we can get married?
This is a very important question to ask because some of these celebrants will not be willing to work in certain places. However, generally speaking most marriage celebrants will be willing to marry you off in a public place. That said you can check with the local council for venue and location for more information. If you already have a place in mind where you would like to get married ask the celebrant if he or she agrees on it.
How much will it cost?
This is another very important question. It goes without saying that some celebrants are more expensive than others. However, the expensive ones may have more experience or be more flexible. Always confirm the celebrant’s rates and compare these with other celebrants.
Who can I have as witnesses?
Most celebrants will allow anyone to be a witness to your wedding as long as they know what takes place. Some celebrants will allow children as witnesses but these children need to demonstrate an understanding of the ceremony’s nature in court if they are asked. If your celebrant does not allow children for whatever reason you should cite the marriage act of 1955 which has no minimum age stipulated for a witness.
What types of marriage ceremonies are there?
Generally speaking there are two types of ceremonies one that is held by the Registrar of Marriage in his office and the other which is authorized by a celebrant in any place other than the registrar’s office.
How do I get my marriage license?
- An application for the license will need to be made out to the Registrar of Marriages. That said both the man and wife need to be of over 16 years of age.
- The license is issued in 3 days.
- The license is valid for around 30 months after it is issued
It is important to note that most celebrants will help you with the marriage license. However, it is important that you make sure that they will.
How do I know a celebrant is authorized?
A celebrant is appointed by the Registrar General. You can find a list of celebrants by searching online. A celebrant should also be willing to show his registration.