1. What does a marriage celebrant do?

As your Sydney marriage celebrant, I take care of the legal requirements for your marriage and create and conduct a ceremony that feels like you. From our first chat through to signing the paperwork, I’ll guide you through the process, help you with your vows and ceremony wording, and make sure everything is organised for your big day.

My job is to make getting married feel exciting — not like you're doing your tax return!

2. How far in advance should we book our marriage celebrant?

Australian law requires couples to give their marriage celebrant at least one month's notice before they can legally marry. This is done by completing a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM).

You can lodge your NOIM with me up to 18 months before your wedding date, so there’s no need to leave it until the last minute.

I recommend getting in touch as soon as you have your date and venue sorted, particularly if you're planning a popular wedding date.

And if you're thinking, "Oh Mary, we've left it a bit late!" — don't panic. If your wedding is less than a month away, get in touch and I'll explain what options may be available in your circumstances.

3. Can you help us write a personalised wedding ceremony?

Absolutely! This is one of my favourite parts of being a celebrant. Your ceremony should tell your story, not sound like it has been copied from a wedding textbook.

I’ll get to know you as a couple, discover the funny stories, memorable moments and little quirks that make your relationship special, and turn them into a ceremony that is personal, warm, meaningful and, where appropriate, sprinkled with a little humour.

4. What is a Legals Only wedding?

A Legals Only wedding is a simple and intimate way to get legally married without having a traditional full-length wedding ceremony.

It’s perfect for couples who want to keep things short and meaningful, perhaps with just a couple of witnesses, before celebrating their marriage in their own way.

You can still exchange vows and rings, say something meaningful to each other and have those lovely "we're actually married!" moments — just without all the bells, whistles and extended guest list.

5. Can you marry us if we are having an elopement?

Absolutely! Elopements can be wonderfully intimate and personal, whether it’s just the two of you and your witnesses or a small group of your favourite people.

Whether you're dreaming of a Sydney Harbour ceremony, a beautiful garden, a beach, your backyard or somewhere completely unexpected, I can help create a ceremony that suits you and your plans.

6. Do we have to write our own wedding vows?

Not at all. Some couples arrive with beautifully written vows, while others stare at a blank page thinking, "Where on earth do I start?"

I can guide you through writing your vows and give you ideas and prompts to help you find the words. Your vows don't need to be Shakespearean — they just need to sound like you.

And yes, laughing, crying and forgetting what you were going to say are all completely normal!

7. What legal requirements do we need to get married in Australia?

There are a few legal requirements, but don't worry — that's part of what I'm here for.

Before your wedding, I'll guide you through the required paperwork and explain what you need to provide. We’ll make sure everything is completed correctly and submitted as required, so you can concentrate on the much more exciting business of getting married.

8. Can our family member or friend be involved in our ceremony?

Absolutely. Your ceremony doesn't have to be completely "celebrant-led". Family and friends can take part through readings, music, rituals, sharing stories, welcoming guests or other special moments.

I can also co-pilot your ceremony with a family member or friend, helping them feel comfortable while I take care of the legal requirements and keep everything flowing on the day.

After all, it takes a village to organise a wedding… and occasionally a celebrant with a clipboard!