Can You Get Married Without a Wedding?

Absolutely—you can get legally married without having a traditional wedding ceremony.

As a Commonwealth-registered celebrant based in Perth, I often work with couples who prefer a simpler, no-fuss approach to getting married. Whether you're planning a big celebration later, keeping things private, or just want to be legally married without the bells and whistles, you don’t need a wedding to make it official.

Here’s how it works.

What Do You Actually Need to Get Married?

To be legally married in Australia, you need just four things:

1. An authorised celebrant
   That’s me! I’m legally authorised to solemnise marriages anywhere in Australia.
2. The Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
   This form must be submitted at least one month before your intended date of marriage. It’s valid for up to 18 months.
3. Two witnesses
   You’ll need two people over the age of 18 to witness the ceremony and sign your paperwork.
4. A brief legal ceremony
   Even in a legals-only setting, you must say a few specific legal words and sign the official documents with your witnesses present.

That’s it—no guests, no reception, no wedding styling necessary.

My Legals-Only Marriage Package

If you're after a legal marriage without a full ceremony, I offer a Legals-Only Package designed just for you.

• It’s quick, simple, and stress-free
• All the legal wording and paperwork are taken care of
• All you need to bring is yourselves and two witnesses
• You’ll sign your Commonwealth Marriage Certificate on the day and take it home
• The appointment takes around 15–20 minutes and can be held at my home office in Perth

It’s perfect for couples who just want to “get married”—without the guest list, speeches, or planning pressure.

💡 Note: The Commonwealth certificate you sign on the day is a keepsake. For legal purposes—such as changing your name—you’ll need to apply separately for the official registry-issued marriage certificate.

Read more about the difference between the two certificates ➝ Understanding the difference between a Commonwealth Marriage Certificate and Registry Style Marriage Certificate 

Who Is This Option For?

My Legals-Only Package is ideal for:

• Couples who want a private, low-key legal marriage
• Those planning a destination wedding but want the legal side sorted first
• People who value simplicity and ease over tradition
• Anyone wanting to keep it intimate, meaningful, and stress-free

Final Thoughts

Not every couple wants a big wedding—and that’s absolutely okay. Marriage is about commitment, not crowds. If you're looking to get legally married without the ceremony, I’d love to help you make it happen.

Feel free to get in touch to learn more about my Legals-Only Package—I’m here to guide you through it all, from your first question to the moment you walk away legally married.

Also in Weddings