Congratulations!
You have found your life partner to share your journey through life. Once the most important decision in your life is made, no doubt you have a few questions on the process of getting married.

Step 1: Notice of Intention

The first thing you need to do is register your Intent of Marriage.

This is done using a Marriage Celebrant, Priest or Marriage Registry Office. These people will take care of all your requirements. They will tell you what you need to do and when it needs to be done.

Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)

Needs to be completed up to 18 months prior to the marriage and no later than 30 days before the ceremony. Legal requirements state that you must be over 18 years of age and not be currently married to any other person. The NOIM form will be checked and signed at our first meeting.

At this first meeting full birth certificates are required for verification, ie. original or copy of the original birth certificate. To apply for a Birth Certificate in South Australia visit Births, Deaths and Marriages. In the case of a previous marriage evidence of divorce is required. If previous partner is deceased, a death certificate is required.

Step 2: Forms

Forms have to be filled and verified for correctness and if there is a problem it needs to be rectified. Once all those details are accurate, things can progress.

Step 3: Statutory Declaration

The Form 14 Declarations may also need to be signed closer to the wedding date. This is a declaration stating that there is no legal impediment to the marriage.

Step 4: Ceremony Preparation

The Celebrant’s work has only just begun, and now needs to work with you to produce a ceremony that will reflect your individuality as a couple. Refer to my Ceremony Preparation.

Step 5: Pre Marriage Counselling

It is strongly recommended that couples attend a Pre Marriage Counselling. Agencies offer courses and counselling which may be beneficial to you as you seek unity and harmony in your future life together. Pre Marriage Counselling is available at Anglicare SA, Relationships Australia and other providers via an online search.

Step 6: Wedding Day

On your actual wedding day, you will sign the Marriage Register and the Certificate of Marriage. After the ceremony, documents will be forwarded to Births, Deaths and Marriages. The Certificate of Marriage with your unique number on back, will be presented to you on your special day. Two witnesses over the age of eighteen are required to sign the certificates on the day.

Step 7: Certified Marriage Certificate

You may apply for a certified copy of the Certificate of Marriage. This Certificate is required when changing names on Bank Accounts or applying for a Passport. This particular form will be issued to you. This form can be filled and sent to the South Australian Government Office of Births, Deaths and Marriages after the ceremony.