What to Expect from Your Wedding Celebrant: A Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing the right wedding celebrant is a big decision, and understanding what to expect throughout the process can help make your experience seamless and stress-free. As your celebrant, I’m here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your ceremony reflects your unique love story and legal requirements are met. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved in working with a celebrant and what you can expect from me as your celebrant on the Central Coast or Hunter Valley.
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Booking Your Celebrant
Once you’ve decided that you want to work with me, we’ll schedule an initial consultation. This can be done either in person or virtually, depending on what works best for you. During this meeting, we’ll get to know each other, and I’ll learn more about you both as a couple. We’ll discuss your ceremony preferences, any special requests, and what style you envision for your big day.
What to expect:
I’ll walk you through the booking process, including paperwork and payments.
You’ll have the chance to ask any questions about the ceremony and the role of the celebrant.
We’ll confirm your wedding date and location, and I’ll secure your booking with a deposit.
Step 2: Legal Requirements & Paperwork
Before your wedding, there are some legal formalities that must be taken care of. This is where the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) comes in. We’ll need to lodge the NOIM at least one month before your wedding day to ensure everything is legal and in order.
What to expect:
We’ll fill out the NOIM together, and I’ll provide you with guidance on the documents you need (such as identification and proof of divorce if applicable).
I’ll take care of all the paperwork, ensuring it’s filed correctly with Births, Deaths & Marriages after your ceremony.
Step 3: Creating Your Ceremony
This is the fun part! I’ll work with you to design a ceremony that reflects your personalities, love story, and style. Whether you want a traditional ceremony, non-religious ceremony, or something more unique and personalised, I’m here to help you every step of the way.
What to expect:
To get to know you both better, I’ll send you an online questionnaire for each partner to fill out. This helps me understand your different perspectives of each other and your relationship. It’s always so special to hear how each partner views their love story, and it makes for beautiful, heartfelt words during the ceremony to share with your loved ones.
We’ll decide on ceremony elements such as vows, readings, music, and any rituals you’d like to incorporate (e.g., unity candle, sand ceremony, handfasting).
I’ll create a custom ceremony script for you, which you can review and provide feedback on. You’ll have the opportunity for edits to make sure it’s exactly how you want it.
I’ll guide you through any traditions or rituals you want to include and offer suggestions if you're looking for something special to add to your ceremony.
Step 4: The Rehearsal
While a rehearsal isn’t mandatory, it can be really helpful for couples who want to feel extra prepared on the big day. If you decide to have a rehearsal, we’ll schedule it a day or two before your wedding. This gives everyone a chance to practice walking down the aisle, handing over rings, and getting comfortable with the flow of the ceremony.
What to expect:
We’ll go over all the important details: how you’ll enter, where you’ll stand, and the key moments to practice.
I’ll ensure that your bridal party and any key participants (like readers or parents) know what to expect.
If you’re eloping or having a smaller ceremony, a rehearsal may not be necessary, but I’m happy to accommodate if you want one.
Step 5: Your Wedding Day Ceremony
The big day has arrived! As your celebrant, I’ll arrive at your ceremony location at least 20-45 minutes before depending on the type of ceremony the start to ensure everything is set up, greet any vendors, and make sure everything runs smoothly. I’ll also make sure your guests are welcomed and that they know where to go.
What to expect:
We’ll begin the ceremony when you’re ready, and I’ll guide you and your partner through each step.
I’ll ensure that everything is legally and formally completed, from the vows to the signing of the marriage certificate.
I’ll work closely with your photographer, videographer, and any other vendors to keep everything on track.
Once the ceremony is complete, I’ll file your paperwork and register your marriage with Births, Deaths & Marriages.
Step 6: After the Wedding – Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, I’ll take care of submitting all the legal documents to make sure your marriage is officially recorded. You can then apply for your official marriage certificate from the government.
What to expect:
I’ll assist you with ordering your marriage certificate from Births, Deaths & Marriages (this is a separate fee, typically around $60).
Once your certificate arrives, I’ll notify you and can either send it directly to you or arrange for you to pick it up.
In Summary
Working with a celebrant should be a fun and stress-free experience! From our initial consultation to your wedding day and beyond, I’m here to make the process as smooth as possible. Whether you're planning a traditional wedding, a unique elopement, or a vow renewal, I’ll help you create a ceremony that reflects your love story and personal style.
If you’re ready to start planning your wedding ceremony or have any questions about the process, reach out to me today. I’m excited to help you make your day unforgettable!