Yesterday marked the beginning of a new chapter for marriage equality.  The right to marry in Australia is no longer determined by sex or gender.  Today was the first time I had the honour of saying that “marriage, according to law in Australia, is the union of two people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life.”

 

The amendment to the Marriage Act now includes several key differences compared with marriages prior to the 9 December 2017.  Couples can now make a personal choice about the terms used in their marriage vows that best reflect their relationship.  The term ‘spouse’ can now be used to refer to a male, female, intersex, non-binary gender or transgender person.

 

So how does the amendment to the Marriage Act change me?  Quite simply, it doesn’t – other than my diary booking up fast!  I am so proud to now be playing my part in history by proving all couples a marriage ceremony like no other.

 
  • Simon is a delightful, friendly and very passionate celebrant. I value his warmth, care and enthusiasm for a professional and loving celebration – I am very happy to recommend his services. Wendy Haynes, Celebrant and Author, Coffs Harbour

    Wendy Haynes, Celebrant and Author

  • We would like to thank you Simon for making our wedding day truly memorable. You were very warm and welcoming. We appreciate the time you took to get to know us and our story to make our day special! Your attention to detail was excellent! We never felt rushed or uncomfortable, you were very professional and we would gladly recommend you to any of our friends or family who are getting married!

    Matt and Kate

  • Hi Simon, Renee and I just wanted to shoot you a quick email to thank you for your amazing ceremony on Sunday. You were calm and professional throughout the whole process and we were extremely happy with the way you conducted our wedding. A special thank you for coming out on Saturday evening for a practice run through. That really helped to calm everyone and to let us all know what to expect. It was so cool to have the ceremony so personalised and your assistance and advice was greatly appreciated. Nearly all our guests commented on just how special the ceremony was and of course Renee and I are stoked with how it went. We couldn’t have dreamed the ceremony would go so well and without you it wouldn’t have! So thanks again Simon! We will definitely recommend you to any of our friends who need an awesome celebrant!

    Renee and Ben

  • There is no possible way to thank you for the effort that you went to, to make our ceremony as personal and perfect as it was.  Almost two months on people are still talking about how wonderful you and our ceremony was.  Thank you so much Simon from the bottom of our hearts.  You made our day perfect.

    Jason and Shantelle

  • Thank you for making our day so beautiful, it was magic. We had such an amazing day which was in no small part due to you. Our guests all commented on how beautiful the ceremony was, and how nicely you conducted it. We wish to extend our warmest thanks to you for being one of the integral parts in making our wedding the wonderful occasion it was. Many, many thanks!

    Sarah and Darren

  • Hi Simon,

    Tim and I are still on cloud nine after reminiscing about the perfect ceremony you created. It was everything we always dreamt of and is something that we will remember for the rest of our lives.

    We can’t thank you enough for all your support and guidance throughout the whole experience, especially your commitment to travel all the way to the Hunter Valley for our wedding. Thank you also for keeping Tim calm whilst he was waiting for me at the alter! I instantly felt more relaxed when I saw you waiting outside the chapel for us.

    The day wouldn’t have been so perfect without you. I’ll send you through some photos of the ceremony when we get them back. If you are ever in Newcastle please don’t be a stranger!

    Tim & Aimee