About Mark

Marriage CelebrantMark Sykes BPsych(Hons), MBus, GradDip(Quality), BSc, Assoc MAPS, CMC

I am a registered Civil Celebrant and Psychologist who works with couples to achieve improved relationship satisfaction. I have a passion for creative ceremonies that focus on expressing a couple's mutual relationship values. To help you evaluate if I am a good match for your ceremony check out if my style suits you.

Personal style

I am approachable and relaxed, caring and creative. Weddings can be stressful and at such times you may appreciate my calm manner and my ability to focus on your needs and wishes. While I bring a breadth of resources and ideas, my priority is achieving your goals and dreams for the day.

Communication skills

My training in counselling has given me superior listening skills that ensure your ideas are heard in the process of planning the ceremony. I also bring excellent communication skills developed over twelve years of public speaking in contexts such as Toastmasters and lecturing at university. People generally find engaging manner sets them at ease quickly.

Experience

As an experienced couples' counsellor I am trained to work with couples to hear their needs and to work with them towards the outcomes that they seek. I bring this experience also to my work as a celebrant, helping couples to identify their hopes and wishes for the ceremony and working with them to create a memorable day.

Legal knowledge

Getting married is a legal contract. My role is to stick to the law. Equally, creativity is an exciting part of the ceremony and I will help you achieve this.

The contract

A few answers:

(1) How much is it: $500 ($100 at at the first meeting, balance on the day)

(2) Will travel expenses be additional? Well that depends where it is. Sunshine to Gold coast is at no additional cost. Other locatins will need to be negotiated.

(3) Is a rehearsal included? No. A rehearsal is not neccessary in most cases but it is available for an additional $50.

(4) What extras will I need to pay for? Additional extras that you have specified in the agreed ceremony are included unless specified otherwise. The ceremony is signed off by both parties to clarify inclusions and exclusions.

(6) What are the arrangements for playing music? Please

 

Five simple steps to marriage

1. Assessment and appointment

Phone 0416157751 and have a brief chat about the wedding date, location and concept. Book an appointment to discuss it in detail.

2. Meet and discuss what you want

Discuss in detail the plans for the ceremony. Complete the a checklist

3. Sign the paperwork

The NOIM (notice of intending marriage) is signed in front of Mark Sykes. This must be done at least one month and one day before the ceremony.

4. Design the ceremony

Design the ceremony either using established formats or develop your own using the resources supplied.

5. Get married!

Relax and enjoy the day.