Family Relationship Services
As your celebrant, I’m legally required to provide you with some helpful relationship resources as part of the marriage process. It’s not just about ticking a box. It’s about supporting you beyond the ceremony, as you prepare not only for your wedding, but for your life together.
These resources are designed to encourage meaningful conversations, strengthen your connection, and help you build a strong foundation for the years to come.
Happily Ever… Before and After
One of the key resources I’m required to give you is a document called Happily Ever… Before and After. This booklet is produced by the Australian Government and outlines the legal aspects of marriage in simple, practical terms. It also offers thoughtful insights into the reality of life after the wedding.
From communication tips to financial planning and navigating change, this little guide is a great conversation starter. You’ll receive a copy from me via email, and when we sign your Notice of Intended Marriage, you’ll be confirming that I’ve provided it to you. You can also access the guide here.
Other Helpful Resources
While Happily Ever… Before and After covers the legal side of marriage and offers some helpful insights, I also wanted to share a couple of other resources that focus more on your relationship and future together.
We spend so much time planning for the wedding day itself, but it’s just as important to plan for the life you’re building beyond it. Love and marriage are both ongoing commitments. They take intention, care and effort.
Like anything meaningful in life, the more we learn and prepare, the more we’re able to grow and thrive together. These resources are a great starting point.
Prepare/Enrich
Prepare/Enrich is an evidence-based relationship education program used by trained facilitators across Australia and around the world. It involves a comprehensive online assessment that helps you explore your:
Relationship strengths
Areas for growth
Communication patterns
Conflict styles
Shared goals and values
It’s particularly helpful if you want to invest in your relationship before marriage, or if you're blending families, navigating major changes, or simply wanting to future-proof your connection.
You can search for a Prepare/Enrich facilitator near you or let me know if you’d like a personal recommendation.
Relationships Australia
Relationships Australia is a trusted national organisation offering a range of services to support healthy relationships. These include:
Couples counselling
Communication workshops
Pre-marriage programs
Family support services
Their resources are inclusive, practical and designed to help couples build connection at every stage.
And remember…
Planning a wedding is exciting, emotional and full of decision-making. Taking some time to focus on your relationship, outside of flowers and playlists, can be one of the most valuable parts of the process.
These tools aren’t just for couples in crisis. They’re for couples who want to keep learning about each other, keep growing together, and keep choosing each other, long after the wedding day.
If you have questions or want more information about any of the resources listed here, please feel free to ask. I’m always happy to help.