A commitment ceremony is a celebration of the promises you are making to each other. Personal vows, readings and rituals, with a day that still sounds like you.
It is not a marriage under Australian law, so there is no Notice of Intended Marriage. Come for a chat in Balmain or on Zoom and we'll go from there.
How we shape your commitment ceremony
Your vows, your rituals, your own wording
Together we shape the introduction, your vows, a ring exchange if you wish, and any rituals you love. If you later decide you would like to marry legally, I can guide you through a wedding ceremony when the time is right.
Why couples choose me
The same care I bring to a wedding
I listen, I write a ceremony that sounds like you, and I arrive early so you can enjoy it. I've been an authorised Civil Marriage Celebrant in Balmain for more than 14 years and would love to be a part of your commitment ceremony.
As there are no legal requirements we can create a ceremony that is perfect for you.
Tell me your date, your venue and what you would like the day to feel like. I can't wait to meet you.
Frequently asked questions
A commitment ceremony is a heartfelt celebration of your relationship and the promises you are making to each other. It can feel just as emotional as a wedding — with personal vows, readings and rituals — while remaining a symbolic ceremony rather than a legal marriage under Australian law.
No. A commitment ceremony is not a legal marriage, so it does not create the same legal status as marrying under the Marriage Act.
The focus stays on story, emotion and the celebration you want to share.
Any couple who wants to honour their relationship in a warm, inclusive way — including couples who want a meaningful celebration now, are blending families, or prefer a symbolic ceremony over a legal wedding.
Every ceremony is tailored to your story, values and the experience you want your guests to share.
Yes. Personal vows, readings, ring exchanges, family blessings, handfasting, sand ceremonies and other rituals are all welcome.
Because the ceremony is not tied to legal marriage wording, there is freedom to create something that feels completely authentic.
Almost anywhere that feels right — harbour foreshores, gardens, private homes, beach settings, the Blue Mountains or the Southern Highlands.
Tell Janet your venue when you enquire.
Yes. If you later decide you would like a civil marriage, Janet can guide you through a legal wedding ceremony and the required paperwork when you are ready.
Send a note via the contact page with your preferred date and ideas. We'll arrange a friendly chat in Balmain or on Zoom — no obligation.
