30/12/2025
AND THERE IN THE GARDEN, THEY SIGNED UP FOR FOREVER
It’s officially engagement season and proposals are starting to pop up so I thought a very boring post on the very important legals was necessary! Before the dress, flowers or DJ, here’s what makes your marriage real and recognised in Western Australia.
Lodge your NOIM
• Submit your Notice of Intended Marriage to an authorised celebrant
• Must be lodged 1–18 months before your wedding day
• This officially starts the legal process
Eligibility check
• You must both be 18+
• Free to marry (not already married)
• Not closely related
• Must freely consent (no pressure, no force)
Identification
• Passport or birth certificate + photo ID
• If previously married: divorce or death certificate proof is required
• Your celebrant must sight originals before the ceremony
Pre-ceremony paperwork
• Sign the Declaration of No Legal Impediment
• Confirms you’re legally free to marry
• Usually completed just before the ceremony
On the day
• Two witnesses aged 18+ who understand English
• You + partner + celebrant + witnesses sign three marriage certificates
After the wedding
• Your celebrant registers the marriage with the WA Registry
• Then you can apply for your official marriage certificate (needed for name changes, passports, visas, etc.)
Legal box: ticked.
Now bring on the planning!
Planner / Stylist
Photographer
Videographer
Venue
Celebrant .celebrant
Acoustic Singer / DJ
Hire
Florals
Draping / Linen
Printing
Limo
Dress
Hair / MUA
Suit
Bridesmaids Dresses