“How long does it actually take to get legally married?” It’s a question I get asked all the time, and most people are a bit shocked when I tell them: about 90 seconds.
Yep, that’s it! The legal part of an Australian wedding ceremony is surprisingly short and sweet – just my introduction, the Monitum (a little bit of official wording, I say), and the legally required vows you say to each other. That’s all that’s needed to be officially, legally hitched.
Everything else? That’s what my no-nonsense Scottish grandmother used to call ‘the fluff’. The readings, the fluff, the long walks down the aisle – they’re all lovely, but they’re not essential.
So if you’re not into the idea of a big, traditional wedding, you’re not alone. More and more couples are choosing to go down the ‘legals only’ route. Why? Well, there are loads of reasons:
- you’ve got a destination wedding coming up overseas, and just want the legal bit sorted at home
- you’d rather save the big bucks for your honeymoon, house deposit, or post-wedding bash
- you’ve had a change in life circumstances and want to get married sooner rather than later
- you or your partner aren’t keen on being the centre of attention. (Public speaking? Nope.)
- you’re dealing with anxiety, mobility issues, or anything else that makes a big event tricky
Or maybe… you just don’t want the fuss. And that’s totally okay!
Some of my favourite couples have chosen to tie the knot quietly in a legals-only ceremony and then surprise their friends and family at an “after-party” a few days later. Others just want a quiet moment, a signature or two, and a cheeky champagne toast.
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to getting married. The beauty of Australia’s marriage system is that you have the choice. And as your celebrant, I’m here to support whatever choice feels right for you.
I always add just a little bit of warmth and personality – enough to make the moment feel special, without dragging it out. No awkward speeches, no fluff you didn’t ask for – just a short, sweet ceremony that gets you married, legally and meaningfully.
So if you’re after a wedding that’s low-key, intimate, and drama-free, a legals-only ceremony could be the perfect fit.
Whether you’re planning a future celebration or simply want to skip the big production – your day, your way. Always.
And don’t worry, I’ll keep the fluff to a minimum (just don’t tell my grandma I said that).
I’m Mandi-Forrester Jones a Brisbane marriage celebrant known for my fun, light-hearted, and engaging approach to weddings. If you’re looking for a marriage celebrant who will work closely with you to create a ceremony that reflects your uniqueness and personality contact me. It’s never too early to start planning.
