I have outlined all the major elements of a civil marriage ceremony below, to give you an idea of the general standard inclusions, but apart from the obligatory legal requirements, any details can be changed, or adapted, to suit your needs or preferences.
Processional
The point of entrance for the wedding party.
*See my Blog post “Ceremony Entrances – Know your options”
Welcome
I will welcome your guests and touch on the meaning of marriage.
A traditional Welcome to Country can also be incorporated at this time, if desired.
Introduction
I generally like to speak about the couple’s relationship, the journey they have shared together so far and what their goals and dreams are for the future.
Giving Away/ Family Acknowledgement
This is the part where a parent, or parents are traditionally asked to give their child away to be married. This section, however, has evolved into a public acknowledgement of a couple’s parents, as well as an expression of gratitude for their family’s love and support throughout the years. Many couples prefer to ask their parents for their blessing rather than their permission, indicating a vow of support for the future.
Readings
Couples may like to include a reading that will add meaning to their ceremony. This could be a passage from the bible, a favourite poem or piece of scripture, a Dr Seuss or AA Milne story, a movie quote or even lyrics from a favourite song!
*See my Readings Guide HERE.
Monitum
Marriage celebrants MUST recite the following words when officiating a legal marriage.
The monitum is a legal obligation, and must be included in order for your marriage tobe considered a legal one.
“Before you are joined in marriage in my presence and in the presence of these witnesses, I am to remind you of the solemn and binding nature of the relationship into which you are now about to enter.
Marriage, according to the law in Australia, is the union of two people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life.”
You can read more about the Monitum HERE
Declaration of intent to marry
The following statement is the marrying parties’ legal requirement, where they formally, and publicly, declare out loud, their intent to marry one another. This must be recited in the presence of the celebrant, and two nominated witnesses, on the wedding day.
What you must say:
“I call upon the persons here present to witness that I, [your full name], take you, [partner’s full name], to be my lawful wedded husband/wife/spouse”.
Variations allowed:
– In the presence of these witnesses
– lawfully wedded (or just lawful)
– partner in marriage, instead of husband/wife/spouse.
NB: “I Do’s”, though not compulsory, are also often included at this time. They are usually more personalised, with some couples even throwing in a few “I Don’t’s” or “Maybe’s” just for fun!
Vows
The promises made between the couple.
*See my Vows Guide HERE
Exchange of wedding rings or gifts
It is not a legal requirement to exchange rings. You are welcome to exchange other items, or gifts instead. Alternatively, you have the option to omit this element altogether.
Wedding Traditions & Customs
Wedding traditions and customs differ in every part of the world. No matter what your nationality, race or life choice, in almost all cultures, there is a tradition, custom, or symbol that you, as an individual can relate to.
Click HERE for some of the great options, or if you simply wish to understand the origins of some of the most traditional wedding customs.
Declaration of Marriage
I declare the couple married, in whichever way they choose, and invite the them to share a kiss to celebrate.
Signing of the Register
The couple, their two official witnesses and the Celebrant, all sign the marriage register.
Presentation of the Bride & Groom
The couple are introduced to guests as a married couple for the first time.
Recessional
Where the newlyweds exit the ceremony, usually to music.
