Minimum legal marriage vows – a bare minimum ceremony

Written by Ali Conroy

March 29, 2025

This is the standard minimum wording you and I are required to say (under the Marriage Act 1961) to make your marriage legal:

My name is Alexandra Conroy, and I am a celebrant duly authorised by law to solemnise marriages according to law.

Before you are joined in marriage in my presence and in the presence of these witnesses, I am to remind you of the solemn and binding nature of the relationship into which you are now about to enter.

Marriage, according to law in Australia, is the union of two people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life. 

From there, I need each of you to make legal vows to each other:

I call upon the people here present to witness that I, (full name), take you, C.D. (full name), to be my lawful wedded wife / husband / spouse / partner in marriage.

You’re married! You and your two witnesses over 18 years of age sign the paperwork and you’re all done!

You May Also Like…

What is a Registry Style Ceremony

What is a Registry Style Ceremony

My Registry Style is one huge step up from the Legals Only and light years ahead of a Courthouse wedding in terms of...

Breakdown of a wedding ceremony

Breakdown of a wedding ceremony

Ceremony Outline or Order of Service If you are at the beginning of the process, there’s a good chance you are sitting...