What does the Celebrant do?

• Guides you through the process from initial inquiries about your wedding through to the registration of your marriage
• Assists you to create a ceremony to suit your needs
• Attends to all the legal paperwork
• Conducts a rehearsal if requested
• Marries you in accordance with Australian law (called solemnizing a marriage)
• Provides advice on other wedding arrangements and services as requested
• Maintains professional standards through participating in mandatory training and development each year.

What does the fee cover?

• Completion of all legal aspects of the marriage
• Professional celebrant services
• Your initial & subsequent visits to the celebrant
• All administrative costs
• The provision of a portable PA system so guests can hear the ceremony.
• A selection of ceremony styles, readings and vows
• Melanie's personalised service to assist you in creating your perfect ceremony
• The ceremony
• Rehearsals on request

What fees are involved?

Melanie James is not the cheapest marriage celebrant nor does she aim to be! Melanie offers a level of service and professionalism that places her amongst the most respected celebrants in the Hunter Valley.

Fees vary depending on what type of wedding you want and are set in line with the services and flexibility offered over and above that provided at the Registry Office. The registry office charges $391 for weekend ceremonies that offer no choice of service or venue and accommodates only a couple of guests.

As such, my standard fees for Friday, Saturday and Sunday at vineyards and surrounding Hunter Valley venues:

• $190 for the legalities/deposit and can be paid by cheque, cash or direct deposit (paid at time of confirmation of booking and is non-refundable)
• $300 for the ceremony*
• $75 for a rehearsal - due 14 days prior to the ceremony/rehearsal (rehearsals not usually required)

Therefore total of $490 for wedding without rehearsal and $565 with rehearsal.

If you wanted a simple ceremony, similar to that offered by the Registry Office, held in my home office with just your witnesses, the fee would be $400 on weekends (F, S, S) or $310 on weekday evenings (M-Th) - this can be an attractive alternative for couples seeking to elope (notice of one month and one day still required in most cases) or to be married with a minimum of fuss.

*Travel costs are extra if total travel to and from from my home is greater than 80km - this is usually not the case i.e. outside the Maitland/Pokolbin/Singleton i.e. vineyards region - charged @ $1 per km over 80km. Additional charges may need to be negotiated in the event of the following requirements: travelling, overnight accommodation, translation/interpreting services, themed costuming etc.

When you have decided on a date please call me as soon as possible. Most celebrants are booked months in advance.

How long does the ceremony last?

It is your day! So you decide how long it goes for - it all depends on what style of ceremony you want. Civil Ceremonies usually take about half an hour to complete, including the signing of certificates and marriage register. You need to consider whether guests will be seated under cover or standing out in the heat under the sun. Melanie will guide you in selecting appropriate ceremony styles for your tastes and venue.

What are the legal requirements?

Read about the legal aspects here.

What venues do you recommend?

The Hunter Valley has a range of beautiful venues. Click here for a listing.

If you are having an outdoor wedding, it is advisable to have an alternative indoor venue in case of inclement weather i.e. wind, extreme heat as well as rain may be a reason to move inside - it's your decision.

Note: Should you wedding be late in the day, determine the sunset time to ensure sufficient light for document signing and photography.

Do we have to attend any pre-marital courses?

This is your choice. I do have all the information regarding this should you wish to attend. Most couples who have taken advantage of these courses have gained a lot of insight and confidence in their marriage. I have lots of information about services that can support you both before and after your marriage.