What’s the story with witnesses?

Very little is required for a marriage to take place, but one of the legal requirements is that there must be two witnesses over the age of 18, and they must understand that they are signing to certify they have witnessed a lawful ceremony which was conducted by an authorised celebrant. 

Traditionally, the Maid or Matron of Honour or Chief Bridesmaid and Best Man have been asked to act as witnesses, but just because it's tradition doesn't mean it has to be that way. It's also unnecessary for one witness to be from one 'side' and the other witness from the other, or for one to be male and one female. As a couple, you can choose any two people who are important to the two of you to be your witnesses. It's a golden opportunity to honour other significant people in your lives such as parents, grandparents, siblings, adult children if you have them, or other family members or friends, by asking them to play a special role in your ceremony. 

Traditionally, the chief attendants were witnesses

One great idea I've seen is to have a witness 'lucky dip' or 'door prize' where the names of your witnesses are drawn out of a jar on the day, or that you have two wedding witness invitations taped beneath two chairs. This could be a way of telling your guests that they're all important to the two of you.

Whoever you select to be your witnesses, and however you decide to choose them, it truly is an honour to be asked to act as a witness for a marriage. 

Best wishes for your wedding day,

Bec x

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