Hints and Tips on Planning your Ceremony 

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Book your venue - Once you have decided on a date, the next step would be to book your venue...the earlier the better.  Also remember, weddings can happen any time, any place.  Consider marrying on a week day if your heart is set on a particular location.  

 

Book your Celebrant – If you and your partner have decided on a celebrant, lock their services in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. A celebrant's diary can book out quickly, especially popular dates/seasons.  Even if you are still to decide on a ceremony venue, you can be talking to celebrants and locking in a tentative date.  

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Document it - Get organised - Before you even make any inquiries invest in a lever arch folder, protective sleeves and a notepad.  In this day and age with everything 'i' it's too easy to make an electronic note.  Consider the months of planning ahead and the volume of emails/invoices that you will be in receipt of and then consider how inconvenient it will be flicking through your e-files to locate a specific detail - a confirmation, a change in time, further changes to dress measurements; the list is endless. Having your trusty folder all sectioned off, will enable you to have what you are looking for in a matter of seconds. 

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Your Personal Documents – Be organised with your identity documents that are required to complete the legal forms with your celebrant.  If an original has been misplaced, contact Births, Deaths and Marriages or the Family Law Court in the relevant State who will issue you another document (fees apply).  Read more.  

 

Location – One of the most important aspects of your day is where to have your ceremony.  Beachfront, garden, local park, national park, wedding chapel, mountain top - the possibilities are endless.  Things to consider - do I need to obtain a council permit; does the site have easy access (consider guests with mobility issues); and how exposed is the site - is there shelter/shade?  These days it is not uncommon to hear of weddings held in a rural setting.  Will you need to organise transport for your guests from their accommodation to the ceremony/reception? Is there space for a marquee?

 

Plan B – Regardless of the season, it is essential that you have prepared a plan B for inclement weather.  Whether it is a thunderstorm or searing heat, the well-being of your guests, your celebrant and yourselves are first and foremost.  You may need to action your plan B if this occurs.

 

Permits – Many council parks, gardens and beaches have dedicated designated spots for special events.  If planning a ceremony in a public place, check with the local council to see if a permit is required.  To lock in your chosen date, time and location complete this step as early as possible.  Booking early will eliminate any undue stress when your location is not available. Consider too if your event decorator needs vehicle access to the site for set up purposes, as you will need to obtain a separate vehicular access permit. Be sure to read the booking conditions thoroughly.  If you are planning on having post-ceremony drinks and the park has a no alcohol policy, your alcohol will be confiscated.  This is just one example. 

 

Sunsets and Tide Times – It’s very important to allow yourselves enough daylight to take those stunning photos.  If you are planning a late afternoon wedding, consider the season and sunset times.  Similarly, if you have chosen a relatively small beach, check the tide times. Sunset/tide times could be a major contributor in your planning process, so remember to factor these in.

 

Local Island Weddings - Island weddings are tropical and romantic.  Most resorts offer package deals which list all-inclusive services, such as the celebrant, florist, photographer, entertainment etc.  Keep in mind that these services are normally shipped across from the mainland and this may impact on your budget. 

 

International Weddings – It is not uncommon to hear of friends marrying overseas.  Usually the event manager at your chosen location would guide and assist you with the planning of your wedding.  The Smartraveller website contains a wealth of information relating to travelling overseas, such as updating your passport, visas, vaccinations and insurance.

 

 

 

 

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