Sarah Abrahamse Celebrant

I am a Commonwealth registered marriage celebrant. This means I am legally authorised to marry anyone in Australia. I am also a member of The Celebrant Network Association.

Marriage celebrants generally perform civil (non-religious) wedding ceremonies which require legal documents to be submitted to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.

Anyone can get married in Australia as long as they are of marriageable age. In Australia this age is 18. However, if only ONE party is under 18 there are some documents you can obtain to allow a celebrant to solemise the marriage. You need consent from parents/guardians and a judge or magistrate needs to authorise the marriage.

You can get married anywhere, anytime as long as you have the legal paperwork, two witnesses over 18 years of age and an authorised marriage celebrant. Some public locations like parks and beaches require permits.

Both individuals need to show me photo ID- either a current passport (best option) or birth certificate and drivers license/photo ID. If relevant you should also provide your divorce order.

You will then need to fill out a NOIM (Notice of Intended Marriage) at least ONE month before the ceremony.

You will also need to complete the ‘Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marry' and we will sign it as close to the ceremony date as possible.

So, legal vows are a MUST. However, personal vows are your choice whether you want to include them or not. Many people feel overwhelmed by writing personal vows, but to be honest, they make the ceremony very special. If you choose to include them I can help you with some ideas and examples to capture the essence of your day and your promises.