MELBOURNE MARRIAGE CELEBRANT – EXPERIENCED IN SHORTENING OF TIME

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Email: cherishedmomentscelebrated@gmail.com

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If you’re hoping to get married within a month but missed the legal deadline to lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage form (NOIM), don’t worry — I may be able to help. I’m Sharon Osman, a compassionate and experienced Melbourne Celebrant, and for over 15 years I’ve supported couples through the

If you’re hoping to get married within a month but missed the legal deadline to lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM), don’t worry — I may be able to help. I’m Sharon Osman, a compassionate and experienced Melbourne Celebrant, and for over 15 years I’ve supported couples through the Shortening of Time process with Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria (BDM).

Life doesn’t always go to plan. Whether it’s due to last-minute travel, medical emergencies, family matters, or an honest mistake, sometimes couples need to marry sooner than the required one-month waiting period. The law allows for this — under specific circumstances — through what is known as a Shortening of Time.

As a Melbourne Celebrant experienced with Shortening of Time, I’ve guided many couples through this process with professionalism, empathy, and a genuine desire to help them start their journey together, even under pressure. I understand that this process can be overwhelming, especially when emotions are running high, which is why I aim to make it as clear and straightforward as possible.

What qualifies for a Shortening of Time?

There are five special circumstances under which BDM or a prescribed authority may approve a Shortening of Time:

Employment-related or other travel commitments
Wedding or celebration arrangements already booked and paid for
Medical reasons
Legal proceedings
An error in giving notice

Your application must be made to a prescribed authority, which may include:

Magistrates’ Courts across Victoria
The Victorian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM)
Other relevant authorities in Australia

How I Support You –

When you engage me as your celebrant, I’ll help ensure your application is thorough and compliant. I provide:

A signed and witnessed NOIM form
A professionally written Celebrant Letter, confirming I am willing to conduct the ceremony on the requested date
Clear guidance on the necessary evidence for your specific circumstance
Ongoing support as you navigate the submission process

Applying to BDM for a Shortening

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

A completed Shortening of Time application form (available from BDM)
Your signed and witnessed NOIM form
A celebrant letter from me
Photo ID for both parties
Supporting evidence relating to one of the 5 special circumstances
Application fee ($58.70)

It’s important to submit all documents and evidence at once, as incomplete applications can cause delays. A prescribed authority cannot approve your application without valid supporting documents.

How long does it take?

If you’re applying directly to BDM, processing time can vary, but in my experience, urgent applications are often prioritised, especially when complete and well-documented. I’m here to help ensure your application stands the best chance of approval.

Whether you’re planning a simple registration ceremony or a more personalised celebration, I offer flexible packages and calm, professional guidance from start to finish. If your partner is overseas, or you’re working with visa timelines, I can also assist with celebrant support letters to accompany your visa applications.

Love doesn’t always wait — and with the right support, it doesn’t have to.

Get in touch today to discuss your unique situation. Let’s explore your options and help you start this next chapter with confidence and peace of mind.

📞 Sharon Osman Melbourne Celebrant experienced with Shortening of Time