Hints & FAQ
A Few Hints
Location and Weather
• The desired venue should be appropriate for all guests.
• The elderly or disabled may find standing on the beach uncomfortable,
(plastic chairs may be welcome, as would parasols or umbrellas).
• Sun glare can be uncomfortable - avoid positions where guests have
to look
towards the sun.
• On a cold day, the bride and her attendants may appreciate shawls
or even
small blankets, especially during lengthy photo shoots.
• The sound of the sea has a romantic appeal, but it makes it paramount
that a sound system be used.
• Plan B: an outdoor wedding requires an alternative venue for inclement
weather.
Wedding Cars
• Vintage cars are beautiful, but also hot on summer days,
if not air-conditioned.
• Car door hinges are usually greased; avoid wiping them when getting
in and out.
Flowers
• A heavy bouquet can be tiring to carry.
• To refresh flowers on a hot day, use a water-filled atomiser. For
dripping or
leaking flower stems, cover them with glad-wrap.
Rings
• A little vaseline or soap inside the rings helps them to
slide on easily.
Confetti or Flower Petals
• Most venues do not allow the throwing of confetti. Bubbles
are fine, but only
after the signing of the documents. Flower petals, fresh or dry, are
best.
Outdoor venues
• On a hot day, a drink of cold water could
be welcomed by the guests.
• Fly repellent could also be handy
at some outdoor venues.
Daylight Saving
• Remember to take into account day-light saving adjustments.
Day-light saving
starts on the first Sunday in October and finishes on the first Sunday
in April.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have lost my documentation ... what should
I do ?
•For Birth Certificates, apply
for a new one at Births, Deaths & Marriages,
in the state where you were born. In Victoria, at 595 Collins Street,
Melbourne
Tel: 1300 363 367, or via the net (see web-link on Legalities page).
•For Divorce Certificates, apply to the Family Court or to any Family
Law Registry
(see web-link on Legalities page).
What is Shortening of Time ?
Under special circumstances, a marriage
may take place in less than the required
calendar month's notice. Shortening of Time may be granted by a prescribed
authority, (Births, Deaths & Marriages).
What is the smallest wedding we can have ?
Just the two of you, and the two witnesses.
How long is a wedding ceremony ?
It varies according to circumstance, but 20 to 30 mins. is a good
average.
Longer ceremonies are better suited to seated indoor locations, while a concise
ceremony can take away from the dignity of the occasion.
What name do I sign on the marriage certificate ?
The name on your birth certificate or your current name.
Do I have to change my surname ?
A change of surname at marriage is done as a matter of custom not
law, you can
keep your surnames, take his or her surname or hyphenate the two surnames.
How do I change my surname after marriage ?
A registered marriage certificate issued by Births, Deaths &
Marriages is sufficient
evidence to have all relevant documents changed to the married name.
Can I register an overseas marriage in Australia ?
Marriages that occur in a foreign country cannot
be registered in Australia.
A marriage certificate can only be issued by the country in which the marriage
took place (obtain the marriage certificate before leaving that country).
The foreign marriage certificate is prima facie evidence in Australia of the
occurence and validity of the marriage ( providing the marriage would have
been
legal had it taken place in Australia).
Australian couples wishing to get married overseas should ascertain from the
country concerned whether a CNI (Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage)
is required and what other documents are required.
For overseas couples marrying in Australia
• You do not need to be an Australian citizen or live in Australia
to get married
in Australia
• The same requirements for marriage apply to visitors as for Australian
residents.
For documents required and NIM see legalities page; a CNI is
not required.
• To have your marriage confirmed in your own country:
A registered copy of the marriage certificate will suffice for
some countries and
for British Commonwealth Residents. For other countries, an Apostille
stamped marriage certificate is necessary (see web-link below).
Links to helpful websites
Weather and tides information ................ click here
Sunrise and Sunset Times ..................... click here
Authentications and Apostilles ...............
click
here
(for overseas couples)