As a general rule, it is advisable that ceremonies be around 20 to 30 minutes. This becomes particularly relevant if the ceremony is conducted outdoors – the comfort of your guests is an important consideration.
Mandatory Elements
In accordance with the Marriage Act 1961, there are mandatory elements for ceremonies which must be included for your marriage to be solemnised according to Australian Law. These include:
The Monitum (legal requirement in Australia according to the Marriage Act 1961, Section 46)
The Vows (legal requirement in Australia according to the Marriage Act 1961, Section 45)
The Witnessing and Signing of Certificates
Apart from this, there are no restrictions to where, when or how your ceremony is performed. Together we will discuss your preferred options.
Suggested Order of Ceremony
1. Housekeeping
a. Before the Bride arrives, I will let your guests know any special information, including if there is instruction for an ‘unplugged wedding’
2. Processional
a. On cue, I will advise guests to take their seats or positions for the arrival of the bride
b. Bridesmaids enter
c. Bride enters with the person giving her away (if relevant)
d. Bridal party takes their positions
3. Welcoming and Introduction
a. Welcome family, friends and loved ones
b. Confirm your enduring commitment to each other and what marriage means to you
c. The telling of your story mentioning anything significant and meaningful
4. Reading or Poem or similar
5. The Monitum (Legal requirement)
6. The Asking
This is not a legal requirement and is optional. It gives you an opportunity to say “I Do” / “We Do”, if this is important to you. For example: “Do you… Come here today with free will to be married to… To share your lives with kindness, compassion and togetherness.
7. The Vows (Legal requirement)
8. Exchange of Rings
9. Declaration
10. Signing of Register (Legal requirement)
11. Introduction of Couple to family, friends and loved ones
12. Recessional
a. The couple leave the ceremony area followed by the bridal party or
b. Enjoy a glass of bubbles and mingle with guests for a short while prior to leaving for photos
Other elements to consider:
Giving Away
The bride may wish to include the tradition of being walked down the aisle and ‘given away’ by someone who has supported her throughout her life. This may be:
a. The father of the bride; both parents; other family member; close friend
b. Giving away of both the bride and the groom by their parents
c. Giving away of the bride and groom to each other
Readings, Poems and Music
Readings, Poems and Music help create mood and your desired effect.
Music for your entry, signing of Vows and walking out after your wedding ceremony adds a beautiful part to your day and another reflection as to who you are as a couple.
The Personal Vows
Reciting your personal vowels is distinct from the Mandatory Vows and gives you an opportunity to personalise your stories. You may also perform any ritual you desire.
Your personal vows can be added to the Legal Vows.
Ring Ceremony
This is completely up to you. You can keep it as simple or as extravagant as you wish.