I imagine that every celebrant has their own particular way of working with couples. There are, of course, some specific questions that need to be asked. However, for me, my interactions come from my experience being a celebrant for 11+ years. So, what can you expect at our initial meeting to discuss wedding plans?
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First of all
When you arrive, I’ll offer you a coffee from my fancy coffee machine, or a tea or, if it’s a hot day, perhaps a lime and lemonade.
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Then
We’ll make our way downstairs to my office where I have a couple of couches, my printer and all my resources. It’s a quiet and private space for us to chat.
We’ll get comfy and, after this, I’ll step you through the legal process involved in getting married in Australia. The steps are the same whether you choose a “legals only” ceremony or something with lots of optional inclusions. The differences will arise depending on what kind of ceremony you’d love. It’s here that I can help with lots of options. I usually find couples “know” what will work for them and we then work around that aspect.
Along the way, I’ll ask you some quick questions to give me information about what’s important to you. I’ll also describe the various wedding packages I offer. Some couples choose my “Short & Sweet” legals only package. Some are planning to elope with only the two legal witnesses that are required, and others are wanting a ceremony that has some extra elements. These could include one or more layers such as a symbolic ritual or a reading by someone who’s special to you, your “secret” vows and your love story.
This discussion will take around 20 minutes, depending on any questions you may ask.
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After this
I’ll ask if you feel comfortable going ahead, or if you’d like some time to chat privately about your decision before getting back to me. I think it’s fair to say that most people have already done their research before meeting me. They’ll have checked my website, read my Reviews or chatted to their friends who may have been married by me or who have attended one of my weddings. I think they can usually tell within the first minute or so if they feel a rapport with me. So, if we’ve come this far, it’s likely we’ll move onto the next step.
This involves filling out a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM.) This is the first document we’ll complete which sets the foundation for the other documents that come later. The NOIM captures all the relevant details for both parties and includes evidence that I’ve checked the documents you’ve shown me match the information you’ve supplied.
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Next step
After witnessing your signatures on the NOIM, I complete a Statement of Fees which includes my T&Cs on the reverse. Once you’ve had a chance to read through these, we all sign this document.
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After our first meeting
I’ll send you an email with a timeline based around what we’ve discussed. I’ll also include some information that I’m legally required to provide. We’ll continue to keep in touch (usually via email) over the next weeks or months so that our connection grows.
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Follow up meeting
If you choose my “Love Is In the Air” or “Elopement” package, we’ll also make a plan to catch up again for a second meeting. This could be in person or via video chat. This is when I’ll gather lots more detail on you as a couple and the people and things that are important for you to include in your ceremony.
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Then
When we’re 4 weeks away from your wedding day, we’ll lock in a day/time for a rehearsal. Note: this applies to my “Love Is In the Air” package only. Of course, I’ll be there on your special day to make it all legal too.
For those choosing my “Short & Sweet” or “Elopement” packages, we can meet once more in my home office in the lead up to your wedding day. It’s here that we’ll go over final arrangements, check that your music (if you’re including it) has been downloaded correctly and plays through my PA. We’ll also sign some final paperwork.
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Building a connection
I find the best way to build a connection with couples is for the communication to flow. As various elements are decided along the way, I’m happy for you to let me know about them so I can update your draft ceremony. These could include your vows, song choices, names of your witnesses etc.
It’s important to me that your vision comes together seamlessly on the day. Keeping in touch is really how the foundation for the best ceremonies is laid.
If you’d like further information on the services I provide or to read just some of the many Reviews I’ve received over the years, please head over here: https://lindycookecelebrant.com.au/
116 – 01/10/2024 – ©Lindy Cooke Celebrant