Some couples know straight away that a big wedding isn't for them. Maybe you'd rather spend the money on a house or a holiday. Maybe the idea of 120 people watching you cry makes you want to hide. Or maybe you just want it to be about the two of you.

All good reasons. Small weddings and elopements are some of the most relaxed and personal ceremonies I'm part of, and they can be every bit as meaningful as a big one.

The quick answer

To get legally married in Australia you need five people: the two of you, an authorised celebrant and two witnesses aged over 18. You also need to lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage with your celebrant at least one month before the wedding.

Beyond that, it's completely up to you. You can choose a legal-only ceremony that takes a few minutes, a small personalised ceremony with your closest people, or an elopement somewhere that means something to you.

What to look for in a wedding celebrant

The words get used loosely, so here's how I'd describe them:

Every one of these is a real wedding. You're just as married at the end of a five-minute legal ceremony as you are after a three-hour celebration.

What a legal-only ceremony includes

A legal-only ceremony covers everything the law requires and nothing more:

• Your celebrant confirms their authority and says the legal words about marriage.

• You each say the short legal vow.

• You sign the marriage paperwork in front of your two witnesses.

It can take just a few minutes. Couples choose it for all sorts of reasons: they're planning a bigger celebration later, they want the legal side done quietly, or a big ceremony simply isn't them.

You'll still need to lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage at least a month ahead and provide your identification. Your celebrant will walk you through exactly what's needed.

Eloping in Queensland

Eloping in Australia looks a little different from the movies. You can't decide on Friday and get married on Saturday, because the one-month notice period still applies (shortening it is only possible in limited circumstances).

What you can do is keep it small, private and on your own terms. South East Queensland has no shortage of beautiful spots, from the beach to the hinterland to your own backyard. Check whether your chosen location needs a permit, think about shade and a back-up plan if it's outdoors, and make sure your two witnesses can get there too.

Making a small wedding meaningful

With fewer people, every part of the ceremony feels closer. That's what makes intimate weddings special, and there are lots of ways to lean into it.

Speak to each other. With no crowd to perform for, personal vows often feel easier to say. They can be short and still mean a great deal.

Tell a little of your story. Even a few sentences about how you met or what you love about each other makes it feel like your ceremony.

Give your guests a role. In a small group, everyone can take part. A ring warming, where each guest holds the rings for a moment and adds a quiet wish, works beautifully with a few people. So does asking guests to answer together that they'll support your marriage.

Include a meaningful ritual. Handfasting, a family tradition or something you design together can work well in a small ceremony, as long as there's a reason behind it.

Remember the people who can't be there. A few gentle words, a photo or a flower can include someone who's far away or no longer with you.

Choose a place that means something. The spot where you got engaged, a favourite beach, the backyard of your first home.

Planning a bigger celebration later?

Plenty of couples have a small legal ceremony first and a party later. Some even have a second, symbolic ceremony at the celebration so family and friends can share the moment.

If you're thinking of doing this, have a chat with your celebrant early. It helps to plan which ceremony does what, so the second one feels just as personal.

Frequently asked questions

How many people do you need to get married in Australia? Five: the two of you, an authorised celebrant and two witnesses aged 18 or over.

Can we elope without telling anyone? Yes. You still need two adult witnesses, but they don't have to be family or friends. Ask your celebrant about options.

Can we get married this week? Usually not. Your Notice of Intended Marriage must be lodged at least one month before the wedding, unless a shortening of time is approved in limited circumstances.

How long does a legal-only ceremony take? Often only a few minutes, plus time for signing and photos.

Can a small wedding still be personal? Absolutely. Small ceremonies are often the most personal of all.

Can we get married at home or in a park? Yes, a wedding can be held almost anywhere in Australia. Public spaces such as parks or beaches may need a council booking or permit.

Small wedding, big meaning

What makes a wedding matter is the people in it, the words that are said and the two of you standing there meaning every one of them. Guest numbers have very little to do with it.

If you're planning something small, I'd love to help you make it feel right. Have a look at [Just the Legals] if you'd like the legal side taken care of simply, or [Simply Meaningful] for a small ceremony with a personal touch. Or [let's have a chat] and work out what suits you.