Contrary to popular belief, your witness isn’t there to witness your signature. Their role is so much more than that! Let me explain. In Australia, you must have two witnesses, both over the age of 18 (and sober) to ensure your marriage is valid. Their job is quite instrumental actually.
You see, every civil celebrant must say what is referred to as the ‘monitum’. A monitum explains to you, your witnesses and guests that the celebrant is indeed authorised to do what they say they can do. More importantly the monitum just gives you a gentle nudge in the ribs to remind you both what you are about to enter. It is a legal requirement that must be read verbatim. Your witnesses must hear the celebrant say the monitum. And finally your witnesses must hear you say how you will take your loved one to be your lawfully wedded partner. So if any of your witnesses perhaps yell, “What was that love? I was in the loo” That’s not a good thing. In fact, their signatures on your certificates of marriage is acknowledging they heard you and me – and that’s a good thing!
Some couples ask me who is best placed to be a witness. Well that can be absolutely anyone attending your ceremony. I’ve seen couples choose Mum’s, Dad’s, their own adult children, siblings, venue staff, lucky door prizes and the mystery of putting two winning stickers under guest seats.
As one of Coffs Harbour’s leading marriage celebrants you can rest easy that you’re in great hands. For more information how I can make your wedding ceremony one to remember for a lifetime contact me at MarriedBySimon.com.au, celebrating happiness since 2008.