Handy hints tips and tricks for making the most of your big day

General Tips

Gather your supplier’s names and contact numbers into a diary or planning tool that can be found in our tools section.  This will help you manage what needs to be done and when, during the time you have set to have your ceremony.

Some brides like to arrive “fashionably late” for their wedding which in most cases is fine, but keep in mind you will spend time taking photos once your car arrives, and check the costs associated with your wedding suppliers if you are late. Also keep in mind there may be another wedding at the same venue before or after yours.

Rose Petals, fresh or dried are usually permitted, at most venues, however check with your venue first. Rice or other grains being thrown over the bride and groom as they leave was an old Chinese tradition which symbolised a wish of fertility for them. These days, many venues don’t permit their use, nor the use of confetti, as it can be difficult to clean up. It can also get stuck in the bride’s hair – and you don’t want that!   Butterfly releases are a wonderful alternative, and may symbolise new life. If you are just after decoration and fun as you leave, bubbles can make for a fun exit and fun photos. Just but keep in mind keep in mind that some detergents can harm or sting people’s eyes, or bubbles can stain dresses where they land.

Live music, is a wonderful option to have at your ceremony…….it just gives so much more ambience. Alternatively, celebrants or venues can usually play music during your ceremony. Try and have at least 3 songs, one for the ceremony and two for the signing of the marriage register as it will give the photographer time to create the best photos.

Outdoor ceremonies can be very beautiful, but always have a contingency plan in case of rain or high wind.

You may be the type of person who likes things to run according to plan. If so a rehearsal may be a good idea. Check if any additional charges apply for a rehearsal.

If the bride is being given away, ensure that person has a chair reserved to sit down after they have presented the bride to the groom.

Photographers

Photographs of your day become a long term treasured memory. Before choosing a photographer, always look at photos they have taken previously. Personal skills such as imagination and attention to detail may be just as important as equipment, training and experience, when it comes to beautiful wedding photos.

To help you choose a photographer, you may wish to ask the following questions:

Do you have professional training?

How many cameras will be used? (in case one breaks down.)

How long do you stay at the reception?

Do I receive a photo album, disc of all the photos, online access to all the photos?

Cost of ordering photos in addition to the agreed package?

Floral Arrangements

Marriage Celebrants

Choosing a marriage celebrant is a very personal choice, and don’t be afraid to meet and talk with several celebrants before choosing some one. Just let them know you haven’t chosen anyone yet, you just want to meet them and find out what they can do for your ceremony.

Professional conduct

Marriage celebrants are bound by a code of practice and code of ethics overseen by the Australian Government Attorney General’s Department, Civil Justice Division. To view the code of practice use this link: http://www.ag.gov.au/www/agd/agd.nsf/Page/Marriage_Becomingacelebrant_CodeofPractice

Equipment

All celebrants must ensure the wedding is audible for all the guests, so usually sound equipment is needed. You may wish to ask your celebrant if they have equipment such as music facilities, table and chair with covers for the signing, ring cushion or even a music selection. If not, your venue may provide them.

Rehearsal

Also ask if they charge an additional fee for a rehearsal. There may be one, due to additional time and travel involved. A rehearsal is optional for you, but your celebrant is required to attend a rehearsal if you request one.

Certificate choices and fees

When you are married, your celebrant will present you with a Commonwealth Marriage Certificate which is numbered and registered with your celebrant and the Commonwealth government, and your marriage will be legally binding under Australian Commonwealth law. There is an optional certificate which is issued by the Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages, (B.D.M.) whom your celebrant will also register your marriage with.

If a party wishes to change their surname after being married, many organisations such as banks and RTA will only accept proof of marriage from the Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages. Federal Organisations such as Medicare, will accept the Commonwealth Certificate of Marriage.

Hence, it also pays to ask your celebrant if they are willing to send an application to B.D.M. for you if you require a certificate from them. Currently BDM charge $45 for the standard and $67 for a commemorative certificate. B.D.M. may increases prices, usually at 1 July.

Ask your celebrant if the quoted price includes this certificate, usually it does not as it is a personal option. Some celebrants may not even get involved in this process, but at AAMW – you can expect quality service.

First appointment

If you were born in Australia, you will need your full birth certificates copied if you are seeing the celebrant at your place or the celebrant will copy it for you if you meet with them at their place. If you were not born in Australia you should tell your celebrant so that they can help you further with what needs to be done.

Tips From Our Couples

If you have recently been married and have any great tips you would like to share with other engaged couples, please use our Contact Form and send in your wedding photo, your story and wedding tips.  Or, just leave a comment below – we would love to hear from you!