What You Need to Know When Planning a Wedding Ceremony in South East QLD
As both a groom and a professional wedding videographer, I’ve experienced the joys and challenges of planning a wedding ceremony in Southeast Queensland from both sides of the aisle. This unique perspective allows me to offer insider tips and heartfelt advice to couples embarking on their wedding journey.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through every aspect of creating your perfect ceremony:
- Selecting the ideal time of day and season for your “I dos”
- Discovering stunning local venues, from the vibrant Gold Coast to the pristine Sunshine Coast
- Adding personal touches that make your ceremony uniquely yours, including tips for writing heartfelt vows
- Navigating the legal requirements and paperwork
To bring these elements to life, I’ve included complete wedding ceremony examples I’ve had the privilege of capturing. You’ll witness all the magical moments: the bride’s breathtaking entrance, the groom’s touching reaction, the exchange of vows and rings, and of course, the celebratory first kiss as newlyweds.
Throughout this article, you’ll also find expert insights from the best source on this topic: wedding celebrants. I reached out to some of the best in the region who have generously shared their expertise.
What is involved in a wedding ceremony?
In Australia, a civil wedding ceremony is conducted by a celebrant who is authorized by the government to perform marriages. The ceremony usually begins with an introduction by the celebrant and a welcome by the celebrant. The celebrant will include the legal requirements of marriage in Australia.
Every couple must follow certain legal requirements to ensure their marriage is recognized under Australian law. Celebrant Liz Pforr, from Yes I Will Marry You, explains:
“During the ceremony, there are legal passages, ‘the Monitum’ that is required to be said by the celebrant and one sentence from each person in the marriage for their legal vows ahead of any personalized vows or special promises the couple may want to say to one another.”
Couples may exchange traditional or personalized vows to suit their preferences. In the ceremony video above you’ll see Alysia and Cameron say their own, handwritten wedding vows which will give you a glimpse into who they are as a couple and their journey together so far.
Related Article: The Most Beautiful Wedding Vows to Inspire Your Own
After the vows, the couple traditionally exchange wedding rings that are symbols of their commitment to one another.
The celebrant will ask the couple to sign the official marriage documents, as well as any additional documents required by the state or territory.
Witnesses will also be required to sign the documents as Liz clarifies:
“The couple needs to have two witnesses over the age of 18 who will sign the documentation and listen to their vows. Traditionally, they are the best man and maid of honour but these can be anyone special to the couple and it is a great opportunity to involve others in the ceremony. Parents, siblings, or one of the groomsmen, for example.”
The ceremony concludes with the celebrant announcing that the couple is now legally married and inviting them to share a kiss.
Civil wedding ceremonies in Australia are relatively simple and can be customized to suit the couple’s preferences. Hiring a celebrant allows you to have a personalized ceremony that’s heartfelt and memorable for everyone.
How long should a wedding ceremony be?
A civil wedding ceremony in Australia typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. However, this can vary depending on the couple’s preferences and the complexity of the ceremony.
Here are some factors that can influence the length of a civil wedding ceremony:
- Number of guests: A larger wedding may require more time for the processional and recessional.
- Customizations: Couples who choose to include personalized vows, readings, or other elements may have a longer ceremony.
- Location: Outdoor ceremonies may take longer to set up and break down.
It’s important to discuss your desired ceremony length with your celebrant to ensure that the ceremony fits within your overall wedding day timeline. Gold Coast celebrant Taryna Bennett, who has conducted over 1500 ceremonies, weighed in with her thoughts:
“I keep mine at 30 minutes max including the signing of documents. I find you can hold everyone’s attention and have them fully engaged up to the 20-minute mark and having the couple stand up there for 20 minutes is enough for them!”
Celebrant Clarah Luxford, who just recently performed her 2000th wedding ceremony, agrees that 30 minutes is enough time to fit into a couple’s wedding day schedule:
“I advise my couples to plan for a 5-minute aisle walk which includes the wedding party walking the aisle, then 20 minutes for the ceremony, and 5 minutes to sign the marriage register and walk back down the aisle.”
Venue: Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
Photography: Lynn & Justin
What are the benefits of having an outdoor ceremony?
The natural beauty of an outdoor setting is the obvious first benefit. Gardens, beaches, or vineyards often have natural beauty that can provide a stunning backdrop for a wedding ceremony. Couples may choose to take advantage of this scenery to create a memorable and picturesque wedding like Joyce and Luca’s at Rainforest Gardens in Mount Cotton Queensland.
Unique Atmosphere: Outdoor wedding ceremonies often have a unique and relaxed atmosphere that can make the event feel more intimate and personal. The natural surroundings can create a calming and peaceful environment that helps guests feel more connected to the couple and the moment.
More Space: Outdoor settings can often accommodate larger guest lists and offer more space for guests to move around, take photos, and enjoy the celebration. This can be especially helpful for couples who have many family members and friends to invite.
Seasonal Opportunities: Depending on the location and time of year, outdoor wedding ceremonies can take advantage of seasonal opportunities such as blooming flowers and fall foliage, adding to the beauty and uniqueness of the occasion.
It’s important that if you plan on having an outdoor wedding ceremony to have a backup just in case of rain. Another consideration is the comfort of your guests during the hot or cold times of the year and if they will be seated in the sun.
Photo: Mario Colli Photography
Ceremony and Reception: Rainforest Gardens in Mount Cotton, Queensland
Related Article: Biodegradable Confetti for Weddings
What is the best time of the year to have a wedding in Queensland?
Generally speaking, the most popular time of the year to get married in Queensland is Spring. With the weather starting to warm up, flowers are beginning to bloom and it’s typically the driest time of the year.
But what is the BEST time? Well that largely depends on personal preferences and the specific location within Queensland. However, there are a few factors to consider when choosing a time for your wedding:
- Weather: Queensland generally experiences a subtropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity. The summer months (December to February) can be quite hot and humid, with occasional rainfall and the possibility of tropical storms. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall. These seasons are often favoured for outdoor weddings.
- Seasonal Highlights: Consider the seasonal highlights that Queensland has to offer. For instance, if you’re interested in lush green landscapes and blooming flowers, the spring months would be ideal. If you prefer milder temperatures for outdoor activities or stunning autumn foliage, then autumn would be a good choice.
- Peak Season and Costs: Queensland’s peak tourist season generally occurs during the Australian summer holidays (December to January) and the Easter period. This means that venues and services may be more expensive and harder to secure during these times. If you’re looking to minimize costs or have more flexibility with availability, you might consider choosing a date outside of the peak tourist season.
- Local Events and Festivals: Keep an eye out for any major local events or festivals that may coincide with your desired wedding date. These events can impact accommodation availability, traffic, and overall logistics for your wedding.
Overall, the best time to get married in Southeast Queensland depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you prefer warm weather and a beach setting, summer may be ideal. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with fewer crowds, winter or autumn may be better choices.
Venue: Maleny Manor on the Sunshine Coast
Photo: Ben and Hope Photography
When is the best time of day to have a wedding ceremony in Queensland?
The best time of day to have a wedding ceremony in Queensland often depends on personal preferences, weather considerations, and the style of the wedding. However, generally speaking, many couples opt for late afternoon or early evening ceremonies.
This timing allows for beautiful lighting for photographs, avoids the peak heat of the day, and provides a comfortable atmosphere for guests. Additionally, it can allow for a smooth transition into an evening reception. However, if you prefer a morning wedding, that can also be a lovely option, especially if you’re aiming for a brunch or lunch reception.
Here are some example times for wedding ceremonies in Queensland by season:
Spring (September – November):
- Morning: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Afternoon: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Summer (December – February):
- Morning: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (to avoid the peak heat)
- Afternoon: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Evening: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM (to catch cooler temperatures)
Autumn (March – May):
- Morning: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Afternoon: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Winter (June – August):
- Morning: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM (to allow for warmer temperatures later in the day)
- Afternoon: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
These times are just examples and can vary depending on individual preferences, venue availability, and specific weather conditions. It’s advisable to also check the sunset times, especially if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, as this can affect lighting and the overall ambiance of your wedding.
Is a Ceremony rehearsal necessary?
Having a wedding ceremony rehearsal has obvious benefits like calming pre-wedding jitters, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and ironing out small details, but it’s not a must-have. However, there’s one important factor you may not have thought of: natural lighting.
Natural lighting plays a crucial role, especially for outdoor ceremonies. While the suggested times above are a great starting point, a ceremony rehearsal or a visit to your venue at the exact time of day you plan to get married is highly recommended. This allows you to see how the sun will be positioned and avoid any potential discomfort for you, your partner, or your guests. Imagine saying your vows while squinting into the sun – not ideal! With a little planning, you can ensure both a beautiful ceremony and a comfortable experience for yourselves and your guests.
Here’s how to ensure optimal lighting for your ceremony:
- Schedule a rehearsal or venue visit at the exact time of day: This allows you to see how the sun will be positioned and make adjustments if necessary.
- Communicate with your venue coordinator: They’ll have experience with different ceremony times and can advise on the best positioning for optimal lighting.
- Be flexible: If the sun’s position is unavoidable at your ideal ceremony time, consider alternative locations within the venue or adjust the ceremony time slightly.
