Michael’s Fees
I have included this piece written by renowned Marriage Celebrant Wendy Haynes.
Keep in mind these fees when you are speaking with celebrants about their services and fees. Celebrants have to pay for their own office equipment, annual registration and insurance, stationery, PA equipment, wages, compulsory celebrant training and other sundry expenses.
I feel saddened and encouraged to speak out when I hear people say, what ‘easy money’ it is being a celebrant.
There is so much that goes on behind the scenes – financially, emotionally and physically to ensure you, the couple, get the ‘perfect day’. There are many hours of work completed for each ceremony. I encourage you to choose a celebrant based upon quality of service rather than price.
When you think of the importance of the role of the celebrant and the impact they can have upon your celebration – this calls for a high standard of work.
The celebrant will cost you more than the cake but usually less than the flowers. More than the limousine but less than the photographer …
The memory of a good …or bad celebrant will stay with you forever.
What does my fee cover?
- A free,
no obligation initial meeting for us to get to know each other a little better and to see if you’re are happy to continue to work together to plan your ceremony - More meetings as required, a rehearsal and unlimited communication by phone and email.
- Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and lodgement once returned
- A copy of “Happily Ever… Before & After” brochure
Personally written ceremony, as briefed by yourselves, withunlimited email exchange, and with you having full editorial control- Suggested appropriate readings, poems – to be approved by yourselves
- Music as selected and approved by yourselves
- My attendance at a mutually convened rehearsal
- Preparation, presentation and professional management of your ceremony at all times
- A professional quality PA system with
built in wireless microphones, iPod, iPad and Mp3 capabilities for the playing of music during the ceremony. You have the choice ofhand held or lavalier type microphones (clip on ) and I also operate this equipment to ensure a seamless flow to the proceedings. - The provision of a table and two chairs, decorated to suit your theme, for the signing of the Marriage Register and for any other symbolic gesture included in your ceremony where a table is required
- A professionally printed Marriage Certificate or presentation certificate.
- A
personalised copy of your ceremony as a keepsake of your special day. -
Supply of an application form for the Official Marriage Certificate.
- Completion and lodgement of all paperwork and legal documentation with the appropriate organization within the required time frame, including the registration of the marriage
Where additional fees may apply
Additional Travel
Additional travel (beyond 200km return by car) – feel free to consider me to conduct your ceremony in the Whitsundays or Dubai, though.
Additional Resources
Special Dates
Special Themes
Commitment & Renewal Ceremonies
- Perfect for renewing vows and your commitment to each other. Ideal for welcoming children into a blended family, or just a great reason for a fun (surprise even!) celebration.
Just ask me if you are interested.
Wedding Ceremonies
- Simpler, less involved (and less expensive) weddings are possible, even elopement ceremonies featuring just the two of you and a couple of close friends as witnesses.
Just ask me if you are interested.
Naming Ceremonies
- Welcome to our world, little one. A personalised ceremony for a new, expanding family. Combine it with a birthday celebration, if you wish.
- Just ask me if you are interested.
Funerals
- Whether it is a full funeral ceremony with interment, a memorial service or perhaps a simpler scattering of ashes, a dignified commemoration of life is always assured.
- Just ask me if you are interested.