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Congratulations, you’re getting married. So what next? Saying yes was the easy part, now there is a wedding to plan. The best place to begin planning your special day is to decide on the time of year, the style of wedding and if a religious or civil ceremony is more suitable for your marriage - these three answers will give you an excellent starting point for your preparations.

When you have decided on the date of your ceremony, it is important that you find either a Priest, Minister or Celebrant that you both feel comfortable with and who is available at your chosen time. Every Marriage Celebrant and every wedding is as unique as the two of you.

Many people have asked – “what does a Celebrant actually do?”

According to the Code of Practice for Marriage Celebrants, our role is to:

• ensure that your marriage is registered accurately with Births, Deaths and Marriages;

• provide information and guidance that enables you to choose or compose a marriage ceremony that will meet your needs and expectations;

• maintain a high standard of professional service;

• ensure that all guests are able to hear the ceremony and if requested conduct a marriage ceremony rehearsal;
• recognise and promote the social, cultural and legal significance of marriage within the Australian community; and

• encourage the value of strong and respectful family relationships by providing information about the range of appropriate family relationship services available in the community.

I also feel that the role of a Marriage Celebrant is to assist in creating an environment on your special day that is as stress-free as possible, so that you are able to enjoy that special moment when you commit yourself to your best friend in the presence of your family and friends. A perfect wedding day does not always mean that everything has to go 100% according to plan! If you are able to relax and enjoy the day, it is going to be even more memorable in years to come.

A copy of the Code of Practice, and information on how to notify the Attorney-General’s Department of any concerns or complaints you may have regarding the marriage services provided by your Marriage Celebrant, can be found at www.ag.gov.au/celebrants or from your Celebrant.

One of the first questions that a Celebrant will ask you about your wedding is when and where are you planning on having your ceremony. The Gold Coast offers many beautiful locations where you can create the perfect atmosphere to exchange your marriage vows.

You may choose to have a romantic Chapel ceremony, a relaxed beach affair, a trendy park or garden wedding, a low-fuss backyard celebration or perhaps a themed occasion at one of our many golf resorts or tourist attractions. Wherever you decide, it is important that you book your venue early to avoid disappointment.

If you want to use a local beach or park, please contact the Gold Coast City Council to seek permission. You should discuss a back up plan in case of inclement weather - this may be at your accommodation or reception venue, at a friend or relatives house or at a local community hall or club.

After their marriage has taken place, many brides choose to take their husband’s surname. In years gone by, the certificate that was issued to you by your Celebrant at your ceremony was accepted as proof to change your name at many organisations. These days you will need to obtain an official copy of the Marriage Certificate that was registered by your Celebrant with the Department of Births, Deaths and Marriages in the state that the ceremony was performed. These application forms can be downloaded through the relevant BDM website, by contacting their office directly or ask your Celebrant if they can assist you with this.

Wherever, whenever and with whomever you choose for your ceremony, I hope you have a wonderful and memorable day!

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