Louise McCarthy

Civil Celebrant

Marriage is that relationship between man and woman in which the independence is equal, the dependence mutual, and the obligation reciprocal. - Louis K. Anspacher

Q: What does the Celebrant do?
A:  I attend to all the legal paperwork, assist you to write and arrange a ceremony to suit your needs and solemnise your marriage.

Q: What are the legal obligations?
A:  You must both be over the age of 18 years.

A Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) needs to be completed and lodged with your Celebrant at least one month prior to your wedding date.
Click here to download.

A person born in Australia is required to produce a Birth Certificate, or if born outside Australia, a Passport.

Where there has been a severance of a previous marriage, a Decree Absolute must be produced, or a Death Certificate if a previous spouse is deceased.

On the day of your marriage two witnesses over the age of 18 are required to be present during the entire ceremony, to witness your signatures and sign the Marriage Register at the completion of the ceremony.

Q: What does my fee include?
A:  At least two initial meetings and a pre-wedding rehearsal at the wedding venue (if possible) or at my home.

Unlimited phone or email contact after our initial meeting to discuss your plans or to make any changes in the lead up to your special day.

A personally written ceremony to meet your needs and reflect your personal style.

All time and travelling costs within the Sydney metro area in the lead-up to your wedding and on the day of your ceremony. 

All legal paperwork and registration with NSW Births, Deaths & Marriages.

A ceremonial table and two chairs for signing of the Marriage Register.

I will also supply a reliable PA system so that the ceremony can be heard clearly by all. (Any live music, CD and player to be arranged by the bridal couple).

Unlimited access to my library of reference material to guide you on the kinds of possible ceremony choices.

Q: Where can we get married?
A:  Absolutely anywhere you choose!  Keep in mind that some local Councils may require a permit to use public spaces such as parks, gardens or  beaches.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any further assistance.