FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can we be married anywhere we like in Australia? YES

2. Can we be married at any time of the day or night or on any day of the year? YES

3. Can we be married in whatever clothes we like? YES
4 Can we be married in Sydney when we arrive from overseas (see legal requirements)? YES

5 Do we have to have a blood test? NO

6 Do we only need 2 witnesses? YES Can they be members of our family, if they are over 18 years? YES
7 Will we be given a wedding certificate on the day? YES - and you will receive a registered wedding certificate about two weeks after the ceremony.

8 Will our wedding be accepted world wide? YES - some countries require that your registered marriage certificate has an Apostille stamp, obtained from Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade.

9 Can we write our own Ceremony? YES (as long as I make sure that it complies with the law)
10 Can our friends read a poem? YES

11 Can you recommend a photographer for us? YES

12 Can you assist in our choice of venue? Yes
13 Can we be married if we are under 18 years? NO, only one can be under 18. (and then you need permission of the court)
14 Can we hyphenate our surnames? YES for more information go to www.easynamechange.com.au
15 Do I have to take my husbands name? NO
16 Can I marry a person of my own sex? NO However, many gay & lesbian couples choose to have a Commitment or Civil Union ceremony which follows a similar form to a wedding.

17 Do we have to have wedding rings? NO
18 Can I be given away by a person who is not a member of my family? YES

19 Do we need to have my birth certificate, divorce papers and death certificate translated into English? YES
20 If we have already produced our birth certificates, divorce papers and/or death certificates do we need to provide them again on our wedding day? NO
21 Can you help us with a letter of support for a Fiance Visa (or Prospective Marriage Visa) YES for more information, go to  www.sydneycelebrantelainesearle.com.au

22 What if I have other questions that are not answered here?  
Contact me on esearle@optusnet.com.au or on 02 9979 2315, mob. 0402810062 and we can have a chat about your needs and ideas.