Frequently Asked Questions
Have some questions going through your mind?
Take a look here and, if you can’t find the answer, don’t hesitate to contact Helen.
Q: If we want you to be our wedding celebrant how far in advance do we need to book?
A: The sooner the better. As soon as you have decided on your wedding date, contact me to see if I’m available.
Q: How much do you charge for the ceremonies?
Q: We’re not sure if we want to write our own vows. Do you have other vows that we can use?
A: Yes. When you book me for your wedding ceremony, I will provide you with a ‘Ceremony Pack’. As well as having an array of information you may need for your wedding, this booklet has an extensive range of vows, readings, ceremonies and ideas for writing you own. I am always willing to assist, too.
Q: How far will you travel?
A: Included in the fees are travelling costs anywhere in the local Gold Coast area between Helensvale and Coolangatta. I’m only too happy to travel to other areas as well (including interstate and overseas) and any extra travelling charges will be agreed upon at the time of the booking.
Q: What happens if it’s raining?
A: I always highly recommend and encourage you to have a Plan B, or wet weather plan, in place. Most times the reception venues are willing to accommodate you if you have to hold the ceremony at their venue because of the weather but it’s always advisable to check with them first. The guests need to be well informed of a wet weather plan and be given a phone number of someone who will be able to keep them up-to-date of any changes. I would also recommend that guests are advised to take umbrellas in case of rain.
Q: Do you have a minimum number of guests you need to perform a ceremony?
A: For a wedding, the minimum number of witnesses you legally require is 2 (aged 18 years or over). I will perform the ceremony whether you have an intimate party of 2 or a grand affair of thousands.
Q: Do we need permission if we want to get married in a public park or beach?
A: Yes. If you want to get married in one of the parks or reserves on the Gold Coast, you will need to complete an application. More information can be found on the Gold Coast City Council’s website.
If you want to get married on one of the Gold Coast’s spectacular beaches you will need to apply to the Chief Lifeguard. For more information please visit the council’s webpage which also has the appropriate application forms. Don’t forget to check the tides before you make a day and time for a beach wedding!
Q: Do you provide a P.A. system?
A: Yes, I supply my own portable P.A. system, if required, to ensure all guests hear every bit of the ceremony.
Q: What paperwork needs to be completed before we can get married?
A: You are required to complete a ‘Notice of Intended Marriage’ form at least one month before your wedding but no more than eighteen months beforehand. You can download this form here. You will need your original birth certificates and, if either of you have been previously married, evidence that this has ended by either death or divorce. You will also need some form of photo ID such as a drivers licence or passport.
(It is possible to shorten the minimum notice time for a marriage to less than a month if special circumstances are met. Contact Helen for more information.)
Q: What do we do next?
A: If you’re happy with what you see on my website and would like to know if I’m available, or simply have a chat to find out a bit more about me and how I can play a role in your wedding day, please don’t hesitate to contact me and we’ll take it from there. (A bit like a first date, I guess!)