How To Get Married Without A Wedding - Legals Only Wedding

Getting married is frequently regarded as a special occasion with lavish rituals and unique festivities. Nevertheless, many couples discover they may only bind the knot using conventional wedding decorations. This blog will discuss the benefits of a simple marriage ceremony, how to get married in Australia without a wedding, and reasonably priced alternatives to traditional weddings. We will also examine the distinctions between a legal marriage and eloping, assisting you in making an educated decision on your big day.

Key Takeaways

  • A stress-free, reasonably priced alternative to typical weddings is a legal-only union.

  • Couples can customise the ceremony to make it memorable for their special bond.

  • After submitting the NOIM, you can get married in around a month. 

How to Get Married Without a Wedding in Australia

In Australia, you'll legally marry without hosting a large wedding ceremony. The key is understanding the legal requirements and forms of getting married. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get married without a wedding:

Choose a Celebrant: Designate an authorised celebrant to perform your marriage. This could be a respectful celebrant, a religious officiant, or a registrar at your nearby registry office. Research your options and choose a celebrant who aligns with your preferences.

Fill out the form: Fill out the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) form at least one month before the wedding; it must be filed with the celebrant of your choice. Your name, residence, and birthdate are the personal information the NOIM needs from you.

Present Identification: A birth certificate, passport, or official declaration serving as identification is required. Should any of you have previously been married, you must also present documentation of your divorce or the passing of your former partner.

Set a Date: Once your NOIM is submitted and your celebrant is confirmed, you'll set a date for your marriage. This may be as soon as one month after your NOIM is held up, making this process relatively quick.

Select a Location: You can select to get married anywhere that suits you, including a private home, a park, or a beach. A few couples choose their celebrant's office for a more straightforward involvement.

Conduct the Ceremony: The ceremony can be as straightforward or expanded as possible. The legal requirements are minimal: you must trade vows and have at least two witnesses present. Your celebrant will direct you through the legitimate aspects.

Get Your Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, your celebrant will give you a marriage certificate. It's your official confirmation of marriage, so they guarantee you keep it secure.

Can You Get Married Without a Wedding?

Absolutely! Many couples choose to get tied without a traditional wedding. This approach permits them to centre on what genuinely matters: their love and commitment to each other without the added pressure and cost of a significant event. A legal-only wedding can hint at individual involvement that can be as significant as a traditional ceremony.

Benefits of a Simple Marriage Ceremony

Choosing to have a basic marriage ceremony comes with various benefits:

Cost-Effective: Traditional weddings can be costly, with the average cost in Australia regularly exceeding $30,000. Opting for a legal-only wedding can diminish costs, utilising your budget for other meaningful experiences or savings.

Personalisation: Without the limitations of a traditional wedding arrangement, you can personalise your ceremony to reflect your exciting relationship. Whether you prefer a beachside area or a cozy household setting, you can make a ceremony that feels true to you.

Flexibility: You can select the time and area that best suits you. This means you'll be able to avoid the peak wedding season and spare cash while getting a charge out of a more personalised encounter.

Affordable Options for Traditional Weddings

If you are considering how to induce marriage without a wedding, several affordable alternatives to traditional ceremonies exist:

Eloping: Eloping typically involves the couple travelling to a diverse location, often a romantic getaway, to get married privately. This can be an energising way to celebrate your love without the pressure of arranging a considerable occasion. You can combine your wedding and honeymoon into one memorable trip.

Destination Weddings: Choose an incredible goal for a small wedding with just your closest family and friends. This choice allows you to enjoy an intimate ceremony in a beautiful setting without the extensive costs of a traditional wedding.

Micro Weddings: If you still need to celebrate with a little group, consider a more minor-scale wedding. This may occur in a garden or a small restaurant with a modest guest list (usually less than 20 people).

Terrace Weddings: Your garden or a friend's home may be a cute and affordable option for your wedding venue. You can brighten the space to match your vision while keeping expenses low.

Eloping Versus A Legal-Only Marriage

Whereas eloping and having a legal-only marriage share similarities, there are a few key differences.

Eloping frequently includes travelling to a goal, making it an adventure. It can be spontaneous and sentimental, centring on the couple's experience without stressing about family dynamics or traditional expectations.

A legal-only marriage, on the other hand, can be held near home without travel. It allows for a more structured approach, where couples still follow the lawful requirements of marriage without the complexity of planning a more significant occasion.

Legals Only Wedding with Life Celebrations with Trudy

My specialty at Life Celebrations with Trudy is crafting heartfelt, one-of-a-kind rituals honouring your love. Whether arranging a small legal-only wedding or a whole ceremony, your expert celebrant, Trudy, is here to accompany you through every step, providing a beautiful and unforgettable event designed just for you. Join me in celebrating your unique love! 

FAQs for Legals Only Wedding

What is a legal-only wedding?

A simple, legally mandated marriage ceremony that forgoes the luxury of a traditional wedding is called a "legal-only" wedding.  

Can I personalise my legal-only wedding?

Absolutely! You and your spouse can decide on the venue, timing, and ceremony style to make it memorable. 

What is the duration of the process?

Marriage may occur one month after submitting the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM). 

Do I need witnesses?

Yes, you need at least two witnesses present during the ceremony.

What if I want to celebrate later?

After your legal-only wedding, you can always plan a celebration or party with family and friends.

Final Thoughts

Choosing how to get married without a wedding could be a personal choice that can lead to a fulfilling and vital experience. In Australia, you can choose a legal-only wedding, which permits you to centre on your commitment without the weight of a conventional ceremony. With the potential for noteworthy savings, less stress, and a more insinuating experience, numerous couples find the excellence of a basic marriage ceremony.

Posted 29 October 2024

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