surprise! you're married

taken from wedbykez.com A young Newcastle marriage celebrant

Surprise weddings are a wonderful way to do without the stress and hassle of arranging a wedding but still being surrounded by loved ones and family as you commit to your special someone.

There are a number of reasons why people choose to have a surprise wedding. Some just aren't "white wedding types" , moving state or country, a new arrival... Whatever your reason you can still have as much of the bells and whistles of a wedding as you want. Having a surprise wedding actually takes the stress, and the cost, of a wedding away from your family and friends and means you can focus on what YOU want rather than family pressures to have cousins as bridesmaids, or 200 guests.



A word of warning, a close girlfriend of mine ditched the dress and the wedding plans and eloped to Vegas for Elvis wedding, just the two of them. I believe her mother is still holding a grudge 7 years later. Having an elopement, or spontaneous wedding may not be well received by your immediate family. If you Dad has always dreamed of walking you down the aisle, be aware there may be some hurt feelings if you decide to keep it a secret. Have a plan for dealing with a disappointed family member or friend.

Most couples choose to have a surprise wedding on a special day or anniversary, not just because it is significant but also as it gives them a reason to gather people together.

Here are some tips for surprise wedding planning:-

Have a story ready to tell people why they are coming over. Make sure you both have the SAME story. People will cotton on if you are saying "Birthday BBQ" while your partner is exclaiming "promotion at work".

Plan your moment. Work closely with those "In" on the surprise so that you all know what jobs you have to do and when

Make it legal - you still have to have your paperwork signed and sealed to the Celebrant no less than one month and one before the event. Make sure you are at least prepared with your birth certificates and documents so you can make it all legit.

Don't fret the Guest list. Chances are there are going to be some people who can't make the day if they think it is only a BBQ or Housewarming. If you really want them there, either spill the beans or stay mum and just accept they can't make it.

If you live on the Central Coast and you want to get "Just Married" then have a look at my fellow celebrant and friend's site Vows Now. Johanna will perform a wonderful, yet simple ceremony that gets you married with little fuss and frills.