Weddings and marriage ceremonies have long been encumbered with out-dated tradition and sexist, misogynistic roles. Couples and times, as well as trends, have changed these (mostly). Not sure where to start with planning your own nontraditional wedding and marriage ceremony? Well, let me help with some inspiration and ideas as well as a few things to consider if you really do want to break the bonds of tradition.
Firstly, there are only two elements that MUST be included in your marriage ceremony. The first is the Monitum, which your registered civil celebrant says before directing you and your partner say the legal vows which is the second element. The legal vows are outlined and written into the Marriage Act, again with specific words that must be included for the marriage to be considered legal. That is it. These are the only two mandatory elements for your big day. So, with that knowledge and sense of freedom, you can build around this to create a day that is exactly what you want it to be.
There are many elements of your ceremony that can be customised, such as the asking, consent and whether you choose to include a kiss. It is all up to you! Be sure to ask your celebrant and be clear on what you as a couple want to include.
In terms of guest engagement and entertainment the world is your oyster. From toasts included in ceremony, champagne or shots on arrival through to wishing trees/wells/messages you can create all sorts of moments to include your guest as well as capture elements of your day for posterity.
This article by Sarah Zlotnick in Brides Magazine (August 2022) is a fabulous list of ideas to get you started. Click here.
