Can You Have a Religious Ceremony and a Celebrant? Yes, You Can.
When couples start planning a wedding, a common question comes up: “We’d like a religious service, but can we still have a celebrant for the legal side?” The short answer is yes—you absolutely can.
As a Commonwealth-appointed marriage celebrant, I often work alongside religious leaders to combine the best of both worlds: the faith-based traditions that are meaningful to you, and the legal requirements that make the marriage official in Australia.
How It Works
The religious ceremony — Your minister, priest, rabbi, imam, or other faith leader can conduct the religious parts of the wedding exactly as you wish.
The legal component — I step in to handle the paperwork and the specific words required under Australian law (there are a few non-negotiables to make the marriage valid).
Seamless integration — It’s usually just a short section within the overall ceremony, ensuring the day feels smooth and unified rather than “two separate weddings.”
Why Couples Choose This Option
Respect for tradition — Couples can honour their religious or cultural practices.
Legal peace of mind — You’ll know your marriage is fully recognised under Australian law.
Flexibility — You don’t need to compromise—your ceremony can look and feel exactly how you want it to.
Personal touch — A celebrant can also add warmth and personality to the legal wording, so it doesn’t feel like a formality interrupting the moment.
What’s Required Legally
Australian marriage law requires a few key things:
A Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) lodged with your celebrant at least one month before the wedding.
The Monitum (a short legal statement celebrants must say).
The couple’s legal vows (“I call upon…” wording).
Signatures on three marriage certificates, witnessed by the celebrant.
Everything else—from prayers to rituals, readings to music—is completely up to you.
In Practice
Think of it as a collaboration. Your religious leader provides the spiritual heart of the ceremony, while I, as the celebrant, provide the legal backbone. Together, we create a ceremony that honours both your faith and the requirements of the law.
Want More Than Just Ceremony Tips?
If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’re planning a wedding (or you just really enjoy reading about them—no judgement). Either way, my wedding celebrant services might be what you’re looking for. From writing vows that sound like you to making sure the ceremony runs smoother than your uncle-in-law’s dance moves, I’ve got you covered.