Jennifer Cram, Brisbane Marriage Celebrant

06/11/2024

Just saying.

Both in my social media posts and in my interactions with you, whether responding to your initial enquiry or throughout the process of working with you.

05/11/2024

The timeless appeal of black, white, and red. And of NOT having the celebrant deflecting attention during moments of sweet connection during your ceremony.

05/11/2024

Why do celebrants charge so little?

Not the view of those marrying couples who ask why celebrants charge so much for what they think is something like half an hour's work. Or they ask why some celebrants charge so much and note that the spectrum of celebrant fees is a wide one.

But rarely, if ever, mentioned is that what a celebrant does is not just the ceremony prep and the ceremony and equipment for it, but that the role for which we are primarily appointed is to provide a legal service that permanently changes your legal status so that only death or a court of law can alter it.

Less expensive alternatives are available. And the assumption that a celebrant who charges more is either better or more experienced is widely promulgated by celebrants. But is it an accurate one? No it isn't.
Celebrants who charge at the top end have made a business decision to go after "premium" clients. Those who are cashed up and willing to spend more on their wedding.

Celebrants who charge less may control expenses more tightly!and take a social justice view of wishing to provide quality services to less cashed up couples in the belief that it is a human right to be able to afford to marry. I make no bones about being in the latter camp.

04/11/2024

12 years ago! D & S made their heartfelt vows to one another with nil fuss and nil fanfare. They substituted an oathing stone for rings, and chose to wear casual shorts and tops rather than elaborate "wedding" fashion, proving that a ceremony stripped of the usual trappings can be every bit as heart-warming and every bit a perfect start to a happy marriage. 💯

03/11/2024

Wordplay 😄

To err is human
to forgive is divine👐
to moo is bovine 🐄
to bleat is ovine🐑
to oink is porcine 🐖
to howl is lupine 🐺
to bark is canine 🦮
to purr is feline 🐈
to wed is a sign 💒
that two hearts align 💞

Reach out to me to start strategising the perfect words for your big day!

03/11/2024

I've had to discreetly whisper to a couple of grooms to zip his pants up, but have never had one who needed to pull his pants up!
Thanks to Sharyn Van Rooyen for sharing!

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/qNGEH4Lzasyyw2sM/?mibextid=UalRPS

03/11/2024

If one of you is a lefty make sure you sit on the left side of the signing table to be able to sign without your arm being crowded.

One of my all time favourite signing photos. Fiona and Scott at the Toowong Rowing Club.

Follow me for more hints, tips, and inspo.






03/11/2024

It's Not Her Wedding—It's Their Wedding

Weddings are often seen as the bride's day, sidelining the groom. But it’s time to rethink this outdated idea and value both partners equally. Labeling it as "her day" reinforces stereotypes and undervalues the groom’s role, adding pressure on brides and making grooms feel disconnected.

Language Matters!

Let’s start by using inclusive language—it's "their wedding," not just "her wedding." This highlights the partnership and equality a wedding should represent. By sharing responsibilities in planning, couples create a meaningful celebration that reflects both their values and dreams.

It's time for everyone to challenge traditional gender roles and redefine weddings as celebrations of love and partnership where both shine equally.

02/11/2024

Love in Translation: Human Touch Required!

Attention, lovebirds tying the knot! 💍 If your wedding vows are being exchanged across language barriers, here's a friendly reminder: a human interpreter must be present at your ceremony.

While apps can bridge conversationalist gaps, they can't put pen to paper for those essential signatures. So, ensure your special day is as seamless and heartfelt as possible with a real person to translate your love story. 💖

Remember, love is universal, but paperwork isn't! 😉

02/11/2024

Tying the Knot: Ribbon Remix

Why settle for one knot when you can have a whole ribbon bouquet? 🎀✨ Let's just say, I've got tying the knot literally all tied up! Counting on me to put a unique spin—pun intended—on the classics. 😉

01/11/2024

A feel good story to start the weekend with.

Jhob Drinkwater knew he'd struck gold when he met Sarah Ostini five years ago.

01/11/2024

Practice makes perfect!

So yes, practice the important bits so you don't get tongue-tied on the day. But don't worry! If you do stumble on the day I'll gently get you to repeat it correctly to make sure you are legally married. And it will be a funny story to share as the years roll on.

31/10/2024

Nothing better. Bush setting. Birdsong. One of my mid-century linen "tourist souvenir" tablecloths featuring Australian flowers. Intimate privacy for heartfelt vows. Lots of smiles and laughter. And a few happy tears.

31/10/2024

I love a good new story 😍 especially when it comes with wise advice (don't scuba dive in the Parramatta River!)🤿

Diamond engagement ring lost two years ago in Parramatta River found by metal detectoristABC Mid North Coast / By Emma SiossianPosted Thu 9 Mar 2023 at 8:36pmThursday 9 Mar 2023 at 8:36pmThu 9 Mar 2023 at 8:36pm, updated Fri 10 Mar 2023 at 1:21amFriday 10 Mar 2023 at 1:21amFri 10 Mar 2023 at 1:21am....

31/10/2024

Love Across Borders 💍🌏
Guess what? Even though you can't register an overseas marriage in Australia or get an Aussie certificate, your marriage is still usually recognised here!
Just a heads-up: you won't be able to change your name "by marriage."

30/10/2024

When It Comes to Weddings, Size Counts - in more ways than one! 🎩💍👰

👉Size of the Wedding Party & Guest List: Remember, each extra person is an extra dollar sign! 💸✨

👉Size of the Venue: Get the Goldilocks factor right—ambiance and guest comfort depend on size. Not too big, not too small, just perfect! 🎉🏰

Ready to say "I do" to the perfect plan? 💕 The one that avoids the 20% budget overrun that 50% of marrying couples are left dealing with after the big day has been and gone? Keep your eye on size! And follow me for sensible advice plus creative ideas.

29/10/2024

When you book your honeymoon, make sure the names on your tickets are EXACTLY the same as the names on your passports (Your proof of citizenship passports, that is. Unfortunately Lego passports not included!)

If the names are different, even slightly, one of three things will happen
1️⃣They won't let you get on the plane, or
2️⃣ You will have to pay a hefty fee to have the name in your ticket changed, or
3️⃣ You will have to buy a whole new ticket

It all depends on Airline policy. Some are stricter than others. But all will cost you.

Worst case scenario, I once had a couple who had to marry in secret 2 months before their "real" wedding because not only did the airline refuse to change the name on their tickets, but a visa and an international move were involved. So they decided to get legally married in order to have time to get a new passport in her married name! On the day, of course, I was legally required to make sure that nobody present was under the illusion that the "real" wedding was also the legal one. But, with a light touch and a little imprecise language, pulled it off so no one was angry or upset!

Follow me for more must-know info and tips.

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29/10/2024

To License or Not to License: That is the Question! 🍾💍

Hey, wedding planners, lovers, and anyone who's ever wondered if you need a "licensed" venue... let's break it down with some cheeky insights! 😉

So, you're getting hitched and someone tells you, "Make sure the venue is licensed!" But wait, what does that even mean? Well, it depends on who you're asking and where you're asking it!

Aussie Style 🇦🇺
Here down under, a "licensed venue" is all about the booze! 🍷🍻 If your venue has a liquor license, you're all set to have a party with plenty of cheers and clinks. The best part? You can tie the knot anywhere—no venue license required for the ceremony itself. So, raise a glass and toast to freedom and love, without hassle! 🥂

Across the Pond in England & Wales 🇬🇧
Meanwhile, in England and Wales, a "licensed venue" is where you can have a legally recognised marriage ceremony 💒 Want to make it official with the paperwork to match? You need a venue licensed for the purpose. And, oh, if you fancy a drink, make sure they have a liquor license, too. Double-check those boxes. And no, you can't get married in your own backyard or the local park.

Takeaway? Do Your Homework! 📚
Before you get tangled in the red tape, remember: knowledge is power! Whether it’s about getting legally hitched or just keeping the champagne flowing, make sure you know what "licensed" means in your wedding locale. And if you're lucky enough to be saying "I do" in Australia? Celebrate with a carefree spirit anywhere you choose! 💖✨