Births, Deaths & Marriages Victoria vs the Marriage Office
Choosing between a registry wedding at the Victorian Births Death & Marriages Marriage Registry (the government BDM) and The Melbourne Marriage Office? We understand the decision can be confusing. Here’s an honest comparison to help you choose what’s right for your situation.
Who We’re For
The Melbourne Marriage Office is perfect for couples who want:
- Small, intimate ceremonies (just you, your partner, and witnesses)
- Legal-only weddings without the fuss of a traditional celebration
- Fast, efficient service with flexible scheduling, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- Personal attention from experienced Melbourne marriage celebrants
- Convenient locations throughout Melbourne and Victoria
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Victorian Marriage Registry BDM | The Melbourne Marriage Office |
|---|---|---|
| Locations | Old Treasury Building | Anywhere in the Greater Melbourne area |
| Availability | Business hours only | 7 days a week, 365 days a year, by appointment |
| Witnesses | You must provide two witnesses plus they can be the only guests | We can provide witnesses and allow unlimited guests |
| Languages/Interpreters | Limited availability | Arrangements can be made |
| Accessibility | Standard office access | Fully accessible venues available |
| Time on Site | Bureaucratic government processing | Relaxed, unhurried, joyful process |
| Parking | Limited city parking | Flexible location options |
| Booking Process | Government booking system | Simple online booking |
| Celebrant Experience | Public Service staff | Professional personable marriage celebrants |
Where you get married at the Victorian BDM
Where you can get married at the Melbourne Marriage Office
Why Choose The Melbourne Marriage Office?
Flexibility & Convenience
- Your schedule: Available 7 days a week, 365 days a year, including evenings
- Your location: Anywhere in Greater Melbourne
- Your pace: No rushing - take the time you need
Professional Service
- Experienced Commonwealth-registered celebrant
- Personal attention throughout the process
- Help with all legal requirements and NOIM lodgement
- Support with shortening of time applications if needed
Complete Support
- Witness service available if you need them
- Assistance with all documentation
- Quick wedding options for urgent ceremonies
- Courthouse-style ceremonies available
Ready to Book?
Book your date now or contact us to discuss your needs.
Need help with your Notice of Intended Marriage? We’ll guide you through every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a registry wedding legally the same as a celebrant wedding? A: Yes, both are equally valid legal marriages in Australia. The difference is in the service and experience provided, plus one is a government department and one is a family-run business.
Q: Can I have a registry wedding and then a celebration later? A: Absolutely! Many couples choose this approach. Get legally married quickly, then have your celebration ceremony with friends conducting the ceremony.
Q: How quickly can I get married at The Melbourne Marriage Office? A: After your one-month notice period, we can usually accommodate ceremonies within days. For urgent situations, we can help with shortening of time applications.
Q: Do you provide witnesses? A: Yes, we offer a professional witness service if you don’t have two witnesses available.
Q: What’s included in your service? A: Our service includes the legal ceremony, all required paperwork, marriage certificate presentation, and lodgement with BDM Victoria. See our pricing page for full details.
Q: Can you come to us instead of us coming to you? A: Yes! We provide services throughout Greater Melbourne at your preferred location, whether that’s a park, your home, or another meaningful venue.
Get married at the Melbourne Marriage Office
Quick, easy and affordable simple marriage ceremonies in the heart of Melbourne