Be Wed By Jess
Most Commonly Asked Questions
Explore our Frequently Asked Questions for a comprehensive overview of our services. Your go-to resource for clear insights into what we offer, and what is expected of you too! If you can't find what you're looking for, we are ready to assist you professionally and promptly. Your clarity, our priority.
+Dive into the details and discover the key to your dream ceremony – all your questions solved here!
We'd LOVE To Meet You!? How Can We Make It Happen?
Absolutely! To connect, check out my schedule on the Bookings tab and book a slot. Alternatively, drop me a text at 0415889345 or shoot an email to info@bewedbyjess.com. I'll respond promptly with some convenient times for a meeting or a phone chat. Whether it's Zoom, WhatsApp, FaceTime, Teams – you name it, I've got the app! Looking forward to hearing from you!
What Are Your Qualifications?
I am the real deal peeps!
Securing my status as a Commonwealth Registered Marriage Celebrant required rigorous training, resulting in a Cert IV in Celebrancy. The Attorney-General's Department of Australia has officially recognised and registered me under Subdivision C of Division 1 of Part IV of the Marriage Act 1961.
My authorisation to solemnise marriages in Australia demands strict compliance with the rules outlined in the Marriage Act 1961, the Marriage Regulations 2017, and a commitment to the Code of Practice during every ceremony.
Maintaining my registration status is no small feat—I annually invest in ongoing professional development with five dedicated hours and fulfill an obligatory registration fee to ensure I continue delivering exceptional celebrant services.
So We're Getting Married, What's Next?
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First we need to complete a GOV form called the Notice of Intent to Marry (NOIM) form, which I can help with.
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You'll need to provide me with original IDs for both parties (birth certificate, driver's license, or passport).
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If previously married, you'll need to supply documentation confirming eligibility (divorce or death certificate).
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Choose your ceremony date and venue A-SAP!
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Select two witnesses, both over 18.
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Secure your Celebrant—book early, as popular dates fill up fast! :)
What Documentation Do We Need To Be Married In Australia?
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Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM - as the above states - this form needs to be lodged a month before the wedding. Once we've had a chat on the phone or via zoom, we can catch up all together and Ill provide this form and help you fill it out, then I'll sign and take possession of this until after the wedding.
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Happily Ever Before & After Brochure - I'm legally required to provide this to you once you've lodged the NOIM form.
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Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marriage - this will be filled out by you closer to the wedding day :)
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On The Day Of Documentation - You, your partner and your two witnesses (over 18) will sign a total of 3 documents on the day. I'll give you one to retain, submit one to the registering authority in the state where the marriage ceremony occurs (as proof of the marriage), and supply you with an additional copy for your personal records.
Transforming 'I Do' into 'Absolutely Fabulous'—let the celebration begin
Do You Travel Out Of Sydney?
While I'm based in Sydney, I'm delighted to officiate weddings throughout Australia :) Traveling is a regular part of the job, and for most Sydney couples, we handle paperwork, rehearsals, and meetings locally. On the big day, I'll happily travel to conduct the ceremony.
Chat to me about overseas weddings x
What Do You Wear On The Day?
This is crucial of course! Typically, I like to 'keep it classy San Diego' and wear a combination of blacks and whites, this makes for FAB photos as I don't take any focus away from the two beautiful people we are all celebrating on their special day!
In saying that if you have something weird and wonderful let's collab! I'm always open to suggestions :)
What Is The Cost of A Celebrant?
The right celebrant resonates with you as a couple, investing time to build a genuine connection and craft a personalised ceremony, dedicating around 15 hours per couple on average. Their role extends beyond the wedding day, emphasising the importance of the entire experience leading up to the event.
Reputation matters, and recommendations from trusted wedding suppliers and venues can guide you to a celebrant offering a truly exceptional and unique experience.
Check out my Blog post on this topic to give you more insight into what we do, and how we do it :) LINK
Do You Have A Sound System and Mic?
Sound is a vital aspect of creating a memorable and immersive ceremony experience for you and your guests. To ensure impeccable audio quality, I utilise the Bose S1 Pro sound system. This state-of-the-art equipment is renowned for its exceptional performance and portability, adapting seamlessly to various venues, from intimate gardens to larger event spaces.
The Bose S1 Pro enhances the overall atmosphere, allowing your love story to resonate with clarity. Its reliability goes beyond amplifying my voice; it contributes to the auditory backdrop that complements the emotions of the moment. A top-notch sound system is indispensable for a celebrant to perform effectively, ensuring every word and sentiment is conveyed with precision, contributing to a ceremony that is not only seen but heard in its full, beautiful entirety.
Making weddings as unforgettable as your love story—one celebration at a time!
Where Do You Stand During The Ceremony?
I typically position myself to the side during the ceremony, except for the vows, as I strongly believe the spotlight should be on you both, capturing your beautiful faces and expressions. However, if there's a preference for me to be in the middle or alongside your bridal party, I'm completely flexible—your choice entirely :)
What If We Don't Want A Rehearsal?
No sweat! I've got it covered! In our final meeting before the big day (can be on zoom if preferred) we'll dive into all the ceremony details, making sure I've got your vision down pat. When you arrive on the day, I'll chat with your venue coordinator to smooth out your entrance. Don't have one? No worries—I'll take the reins.
I'll play director for your bridal party, ensuring everyone stands picture-perfect. From guiding your entrance to orchestrating the vows, I've got every ceremony angle covered. You won't need to fret about a thing—just soak in the magic! ✨
Will You Help With Our Vows?
Absolutely! If you need a lil helping hand I've got a treasure trove of vow scripts just waiting for you to dive into. And guess what? I've even cooked up a fabulous E-book that I hand out once you've locked me in as your officiant. It's your secret weapon for a smoother journey through the oh-so-inevitable wedding planning stress. Let's turn those vow worries into laughter and love!
What Name Do I Sign On The Marriage Certificate?
Stick to your legal and usual name when signing the marriage certificate! This step marks the formal acknowledgment of your legal union and sets the stage for any subsequent name changes.
Love, laughter, and happily ever after! Your dream celebration starts here!
Will You Book More Than Our Wedding On The Day?
There's really no right or wrong answer here—just what feels right to you. Some celebrants handle multiple weddings in a day, while others, like myself, like stick to one. Why? Because on your day, you're the main act. If things go haywire, like a breakdown or a wardrobe malfunction, I'm not dashing off to the next gig. I'm committed to seeing your story through.
And it's more than logistics—it's personal to me. By your wedding day, we've built a connection. So, when your happiness radiates, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else but right there with you :)
Why Did You Become A Wedding Celebrant?
Well, believe it or not, it came to me on my own wedding day! It was during my wedding when I had the most beautiful Celebrant, she was sweet, soft, warm and good fun. It was truly in that moment surrounded by all of my family and my nearest and dearest friends that I thought, 'how wonderful would it be, to be surrounded by people who are experiencing one of the happiest days of their lives? How do I get a piece of this joy and make a living out of it?' And the rest is history! I undertook the Certificate IV in Celebrancy and studied my butt off and voila! Here I am!
What Is Your Ceremony Style?
Well I'm a little bit of everything mixed in together. I believe when I'm expressing your true love story and how you both got to this point that it should be light and fun and with a little bit of lovey dovey, romance-y, feel-good stuff thrown in for good measure. Everyone loves a chuckle at the bad pick up line your bae used on you or the awkward first date you had or even the silly nicknames you give each other, this is all part of your story and it's beautiful, and unique and I love that! Let's bring the ceremony to life and when I say that, it means I wanna inject some fun into it! In saying that, if serious and romance divine vibes is your thang - well, I'm all for that too, we are a team and I will get to know exactly how I can tailor my service and ceremony to what you would like for your special day :)
What Can We Expect On The Day?
Let me tell you I will run through this with you in GREAT detail, you do NOT have to worry about a thing, it is my job to put you both at ease, you have enough to worry about, so I will be with you every step of the way in the lead up to the big day, I'll be there to calm any nerves and let you know where you need to be, where to stand, timings, all of it!
Call me your Cele-best friend :)
I'll even give you a thorough timeline document that will show you how the day will unfold, at what time and when! I'm a project manager at heart, so don't worry I'll be guiding you every step to ensure you know what to expect! ;) We Got THIS! :D
Because weddings should be as extraordinary as the love they celebrate! Ready to make magic together?
How Do You Communicate With Us?
How Early Will You Arrive At The Wedding & How Long Will You Stay?
At Be Wed By Jess, we thrive on effective communication. Your dream ceremony is at the heart of our service, and we tailor our approach to your preferences. Whether it's through emails, phone calls, or in-person consultations, we adapt to your communication style.
Our commitment to open and clear communication ensures every detail aligns seamlessly with your vision. Expect timely responses, regular updates, and attentive listening to your preferences. Your unique journey deserves a unique communication strategy. Connect with us via virtual calls, emails, or face-to-face meetings – we're here to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Let's start the conversation and turn your celebration dreams into a beautiful reality!
This is where my organisational wizardry comes in to play! I will make sure we go over the run sheet I provide and will ensure I am there early to set up, I am a stickler for being on time (early always) so I will arrive 30 mins (minimum) before the ceremony, I will be there well before the lovely bride arrives :) I would like to ensure I give the best possible service and will direct the gang to the reception or canapés or whatever you have lined up after the ceremony. I'm providing a service to you, your family and friends, and once that is complete I pack my things and go on my merry way (usually I'm all loved up and happy after the ceremony so I can't wait to get home to my hubby to tell him how it all went and how much fun we had) so please don't feel obliged to ask me to stay (although that is awfully sweet thank you so much! xx).
What If You Are Sick On The Day?
Can You Order Our Registered Certificate on Our Behalf?
It's not a question that often crosses couples' minds, but it's a critical one. Consider this scenario: What if your celebrant falls ill and can't perform the ceremony?
A well-prepared and seasoned celebrant, like myself with the fantastic network at the Australian Marriage Celebrants Inc Association, has contingency plans in place. I can confidently outline the steps we'll take if the unexpected were to unfold.
Sure, I can do that for you and have it delivered by Registered Mail too! It is an additional fee charged by the Attorney General of $65 delivered in Australia. Or $75 for delivering overseas.
30 min
Free
30 min
1,099 Australian dollars
15 min
749 Australian dollars
15 min
450 Australian dollars
4 hr
1,500 Australian dollars