Port Douglas Wedding Photography
your questions answered
what is the first step?
The first step is to confirm the date and time for your wedding, and to get your paperwork started. You will need to complete the Notice of Intended Marriage and provide original identification documents.
how far ahead should i book?
It is advisable to book your celebrant, photographer and as many suppliers as possible especially if you are looking at the peak wedding season between April and November. The Notice of Intended Marriage can be lodged no later than one month prior to your wedding date and not earlier than 18 months before the date.
I don’t have one month, can I apply for a ‘Shortening of Time’?
Shortening of the statutory period (one month) of notice under the Marriage Act 1961 can only be granted in extraordinary circumstances. Examples of these circumstances include:
employment-related or other travel commitments
wedding or celebration arrangements, or religious considerations
medical reasons
legal proceedings
error in giving notice
My fiance’s divorce has not been finalised, can we still lodge the NOIM?
Yes, you can lodge your NOIM with the celebrant pending the divorce being finalised. However, the marriage cannot be performed until the divorce has been finalised.
My identification documents are certified copies. can I use these?
No, marriage celebrants are obligated to sight all original identification documents.
I have had a change of name.
will I require further documents?
Yes, if you have had a change of name you will be asked to provide an original change of name certificate. Please let me know early in the booking if this relates to you.
My identification documents are not in English.
If any of your documents are not in English, it is your responsibility to ensure your documents are translated by an authorised person who is recognised as a legal translator.
You can visit the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters to find an authorised accredited translator in Australia or by contacting the Australian or English Embassy in your country of residence.
What happens after you lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage?
This is when your plans start to get exciting….
Once I have received your completed Notice of Intended Marriage, I will provide you with my suggested signature Ceremony Package which contains limitless inspiration and ideas for your ceremony- introductions, prose, poetry, vows and rituals. I will help you create your own personal ceremony reflecting your thoughts, values, beliefs and personalities.
I ask you to complete a personal questionnaire and the information you provide is creatively woven into your ceremony.
My ceremonies are light and happy, often touched with gentle laughter, but ultimately they are unique to each couple. A beautiful copy of your ceremony as well as your presentation certificate is left with you after the ceremony as a keepsake.
Will my name be automatically changed after I get married?
No. You will need to send an application form to Births Deaths and Marriages in Brisbane for your Marriage Certificate that will be your identification for officially changing your name.
Although the presentation certificate I give you on your wedding day is a legal certificate, it is not recognised as an identity document, and many institutions will not recognise it when you go to change your name.
I will explain the application form that needs to be sent to Births Deaths Marriages in Brisbane (this is where I lodge your documents) after you are married.
As a courtesy, I offer to send this application form away with your documents. This makes the process easier for you as the application form will arrive with my documents and will start to be processed as soon as it arrives at Birth Deaths and Marriages. The cost is $42 (subject to change annually) and I can provide the application form.
details of the day
Will I need a permit?
If you are planning on having your wedding on a beach or in a park you may need to contact the local Douglas Shire Council regarding a permit.
I have a lovely little black book filled with suggestions for locations for all different styles of ceremony and conditions-simply be in touch!
Will I need a witness, and if so, how many?
On your wedding day you will need two witnesses over the age of 18 who speak English language. They will need to be present for the entire ceremony. This can be anyone you like. If you are eloping, let me know as I can assist to make other arrangements.
Can I have a family member or friend read at our wedding?
Yes indeed. I find that it adds another dimension to your ceremony, as well as recognising important people in your lives.
How long should our ceremony run for?
Ceremonies generally run for around twenty minutes. Anything less than this may seems a little abrupt, but this is again entirely up to you to decide.
Can we contact you for advice or information?
Absolutely – feel free to contact me, as it is very important you understand both the legal requirements, as well as ensuring we create the ceremony of your choice and that you are comfortable with all the planning and preparation. I am available by email, telephone and Skype.
are we required to attend a pre-marital course?
No. However all celebrants must provide information about Relationships Australia should you choose to participate in any of their programs.
Further information is available through:
Department of Families, Community and Indigenous Affairs
Do I have to be given away?
No, remember this is your ceremony, and your day. Besides a couple of legal requirements, your ceremony is a reflection of your preferences and ideas.
Who usually gives the bride away?
This role can be assigned to any one or any two people you desire.
What name does the bride sign on the day of the wedding?
The bride signs with her maiden name or the name she is recognised as at the time of the marriage. This will be the same signature that she has used when lodging the NOIM and declaration that is signed prior to the ceremony.
Should we provide chairs for the guests?
Most guests are happy to stand at outdoor weddings but if you have elderly people or disabled guests, I recommend hiring approximately twelve chairs to allow immediate family to be comfortably seated throughout the ceremony.
Do we pay for your PA system?
No, if a PA is required, this is covered in the cost in my quote.
We would like to elope, is this possible?
Yes, elopements are very popular in this area. What could be more romantic…. jetting off to a secret destination with your beloved…. and going home as husband and wife! Port Douglas is one of the most magical and romantic surrounds in tropical Far North Queensland-from island cays, to the iconic Sugar Wharf, luxurious villas, waterfront gardens, the historical St Mary’s Church, intimate rainforest grottoes….the choices are exquisite! I have a valuable little black book of suggestions, suppliers, tips and secrets to help you find the perfect match for the ceremony of your dreams!
lets make it legal
THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTs OF YOUR MARRIAGE are PARAMOUNT
I ensure all documents are filled in accurately, and that the correct legal proof of identification is provided. You will need to complete a document called Notice of Intended Marriage. This document needs to be lodged with me no later than 30 days prior to your wedding date.
I suggest a copy of your proof of identification documents be sent when lodging the NOIM so that I can confirm you are able to provide the correct documents. If you have any concerns, I highly recommend you check with me as early as possible. I also suggest Registered Delivery for your paperwork.
PROOF OF IDENTIFICATION
You will be required to provide the following ORIGINAL proof of identification documents:
✔︎ Birth Certificates
✔︎ Proof of Name Change (if you have legally changed your name)
✔︎ Drivers Licence/Passport
If you have been previously married you will also need to provide the following ORIGINAL documents:
✔︎ Divorce Certificate or Decree Absolute if divorced
✔︎ Death Certificate (if your previous spouse has passed away)
If you live outside of Australia:
✔︎ your signatures on the Notice of Intended Marriage need to be witnessed by an approved authority such as an Australian Diplomatic Officer, an Australian Consular Officer or a Notary Public.