Having had the honour of working with hundreds of couples to help make their wedding day special, there are a few things that come up in conversation a lot. You can find answers to the most common questions I get asked here. Hopefully this helps, if you’re interested in checking my availability or would like to make a time to catch up, please send me a message through the Enquiry Form
We are engaged!! Where do we start?
Chat with each other about what you envisage for your ceremony. Pick a place and a date for your wedding ceremony, then let’s make a time to catch up and I will guide you through everything that needs to happen. Don’t leave it too late, I book up pretty quickly (especially for Saturdays).
How do I book you as our Celebrant?
We can arrange a no obligation meeting and I will answer all the questions you have. I will also talk you through the process of getting married, and I promise to make this as simple as possible for you, taking care of as much as I can for you. If you think I am the right fit for you and the wedding you envisage, then all I need is a $100 deposit. I only perform one wedding a day so that I can ensure my full attention and time is focused on you.
Do you travel outside of Townsville for weddings?
Absolutely!! I love performing weddings in Ingham, Ayr, Charters Towers, Magnetic Island and everywhere in between. I have an additional fee for the travel to cover costs and will let you know this when you enquire.
What documents and ID do we need to get married?
In Australia a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) needs to be completed with your Celebrant at least 1 month (or up to 18 months) before your wedding. Luckily, as your Celebrant I will complete all the paperwork that is required for you to get married. You just give me your ID and answer a few simple questions and I will take care of the rest. The ID required is:
- evidence of the date and place of birth (such as a birth certificate) for both of you, or a current overseas passport if you were born outside Australia
- current photo ID (Australian photo driver licence, Australian passport, Overseas passport or Australian proof of age card (formerly 18+ card)
- evidence of any previous divorce or death of any spouse, if applicable—such as original divorce or death certificate for previous spouse.
Is a rehearsal included?
Yes absolutely, the package I provide includes a rehearsal. Rehearsals can really help with the nerves, as it helps you know where you have to stand and what you will be saying.
Who can act as a witness during the ceremony?
Two people, over the age of eighteen are required to act as witnesses. They should be able to speak and understand English, otherwise an interpreter will be required. At the completion of the ceremony you, the Marriage Celebrant and the witnesses will be required to sign the Marriage Register and Marriage Certificate. Your witnesses can be anyone you choose, and I need no ID from them, just their full names. This can be a nice way to include two special people in your ceremony.
Is all the paperwork and legal elements included?
Yes, I manage all of the legal aspects to register your marriage. I will prepare all the paperwork and just show you where to sign. After the wedding, I will send you a link to apply for your Official Marriage Certificate from Births Deaths and Marriages and this is paid by you to Births, Deaths and Marriages. I will also send you a Change of Name Kit to help you navigating changing your name if you choose to do so.
Do you provide a PA and microphone?
Yes, I provide an excellent quality PA system that is battery operated and has great sound! I download all your music choices for the ceremony and even provide a second person that will operate all the music during the ceremony to ensure it is seamless. I will keep the music playing after the ceremony while you are being congratulated by your family and friends and getting photos taken.
We don’t want a big ceremony, just to get married. Is this possible?
Yes, you don’t need any more than 2 witnesses to be present. I will complete the legal paperwork with you no less than one month prior to the day, and then I will prepare a beautiful simple ceremony for you. Then on the day, you say the legal minimum words, sign the paperwork and you’re married in no time at all.
Do you support Marriage Equality?
While I’m beyond disappointed that this question still gets asked! I am a very proud supporter of Marriage Equality and the LGBTQ+ community. I love that in my role as a Marriage Celebrant that I have been able to celebrate so many beautiful sexual and gender diverse relationships in a way that is unique, inclusive and memorable for each couple.
What do I do on the day?
As your Marriage Celebrant I see my role is to oversee everything that has a direct impact on your wedding ceremony – for example, working with your photographer, videographer, musicians, venue staff, anyone who may be involved on the day. I ensure that we’re all on the same page and ready to bring our A Game for your wedding ceremony. Getting all of the little details right (like entry points, music cues, etc.) ensures we have a smooth ceremony. I usually arrive around an hour before the ceremony starts to set-up and test my equipment.
Hayley K - Celebrant Townsville 