Often when couples first contact me, they're unsure of where to start with planning their ceremonies. These are the most common questions I get from newly-engaged couples.
How early should I contact you?
About six months to a year before your wedding is ideal, but any time up until about six weeks beforehand could be fine depending on my availability. There's some paperwork that needs to be done more than one month before your wedding day, so it's important to build that into your schedule.
As with all things, though, the earlier the better!
How much do you charge?
I charge a standard fee of $1400 for weddings in Melbourne. This full-service package includes the preparation and performance of fully personalised ceremony, plus of course absolutely everything you need to be legally hitched.
I also give my couples the option to have a friend or family member write and perform their ceremony for them (with my support), while I cover all the legal requirements. For this sort of legals-only ceremony, it's a flat $900 fee.
If you're a low-income earner or on a concession card, please contact me to have a chat about a reduced rate for your special day.
I'm shy. Do I have to speak much?
Most people aren't really very fond of public speaking, and luckily you and your partner just need to say one short line each to be legally married to each other. If you're not shy, however, feel free to be the star of the show and say as much as you'd like.
Do I need to write my own vows or have a ring ceremony?
There are a couple of things you must do during your ceremony (for example, signing the marriage certificates and saying the legal vows) - I'll go through these when we first meet. Apart from those couple of things, your ceremony is totally up to you.
Can you help us write our vows?
Definitely. I have tips, templates and thought-starters to help you write amazing personalised vows.
Do we get to read the ceremony in full before our wedding day?
Yes. You'll be provided a full transcript of your ceremony (except your vows if they're a surprise to your partner) a few weeks before the wedding day. You're free to remove or add anything from the ceremony, and request any changes you'd like to see.
I want to include my mum/friend/child/other important person in my ceremony - is that okay?
Yup! There are a million different ways we can integrate your special people into your ceremony. We'll discuss ideas in the lead up to your wedding day.
Will we get to rehearse the ceremony before the wedding?
I would recommend a rehearsal to all couples. Knowing where you'll walk and stand and how to speak into the microphone will make your day run that much more smoothly. I would suggest doing a rehearsal in the week before your wedding, preferably at the venue if possible.
Do you have your own PA system for the ceremony?
I have a Behringer portable amp and bluetooth wireless microphone which are perfect for indoor and outdoor ceremonies.
I'm having my wedding out of town, can you travel?
Of course. For weddings further than 30km outside of the Melbourne CBD I charge a travel fee of $1 per kilometer.
If you have any questions about your ceremony, or if you'd like to chat further, please contact me via the contact tab.