Rebels' Guide

I wrote earlier today about the technical details behind Brides changing their last names on their wedding day , and how you do it legally in Australia. It’s often an awkward point in meeting with a couple, when I ask if the bride will be taking the groom’s last name. She looks at him, he looks at her, she sighs a little bit and then gleefully says “yes!” I know for Britt it’s been a sore point, for no real reason at all. I know she doesn’t hate my last name, she’s even using it on Facebook, she’s got nothing against it’s Old English heritage and I know she’s got nothing against me, because she married me! But nonetheless, it’s been kind of a sore point for her and I think Maude Standish rounds it out quite nicely in her most recent piece for the Huffington Post when she says that she understands why many girls are taking their husbands names and why she isn’t: “It’s just not the right choice for me....

When I’m meeting with a couple, preparing their ceremony and their paperwork there is always an awkward moment when I ask if the bride will be taking the groom’s last name, or vice versa. I’m not touching that issue with a 30 foot stick, you’re welcome to talk it over in the comments, but most brides contact me after the wedding wanting to know how to change their name, this is that guide: Changing a bride’s (or groom’s!) last name At your ceremony your celebrant will present you with a Form 15 Marriage Certificate, it’s the fancy looking one pictured here. On your wedding day you are welcome to start using your new last name, change it on Facebook and get a new Twitter handle, but it’s not on your drivers license yet. Your Form 15 Marriage Certificate will often not be accepted as proof of marriage, you need to request a marriage certificate from your state’s Births, Deaths and Marriages office. Apply to your BDM for a “Marria...

I’m lucky to talk weddings all day every day, here’s five ideas that I or my couples have thought of this week: 1. At the end of the ceremony, instead of saying “you may kiss your bride” your celebrant could say “you may now update your Facebook relationship status”, I don’t like the ceremony to be a stand-up routine, but a little smile goes a long way in your ceremony. 2. Create business cards (Google search for cheap business cards to find a good deal) that share your Instagram usernames and a wedding hashtag. 3. Some guests might benefit from a quick recap on the love story up until now. 4. Hold your post-ceremony soiree, your reception, at a place that suits your personality, budget, guest list and appetite. 5. Was there a person who brought you together, a friend that played match-maker? Perhaps they could take you throw your vows instead of your celebrant? It’s a way they can seal the deal and play a part in your ceremony. Have you g...