Integrating the Poruwa Ceremony into an Australian Wedding… Weddings are not only a celebration of love but also a beautiful opportunity to blend cultures, traditions, and modern customs. One such harmonious integration that has been gaining attention is the incorporation of the Poruwa Ceremony—a traditional Sri Lankan wedding ritual—into Australian weddings. For brides and grooms of Sri Lankan heritage, this unique ceremony adds a deeply meaningful and cultural touch to their special day, while honoring traditions passed down through generations.
What is the Poruwa Ceremony?
The Poruwa Ceremony is an ancient Sri Lankan wedding ritual with roots tracing back thousands of years. It takes its name from the “Poruwa,” a beautifully decorated wooden platform where the couple exchanges vows and participates in symbolic rituals. The ceremony is rich in tradition and spirituality, emphasizing unity, respect, and blessings for the couple’s married life.
This ritual goes beyond mere formalities; it holds cultural significance, involving symbolic acts like tying the couple’s pinky fingers with a sacred thread, the offering of betel leaves, and traditional blessings from family members. Each step is designed to ensure luck, happiness, and prosperity for the newlyweds.
Why Incorporate the Poruwa Ceremony in Australian Weddings?
Australian weddings are wonderfully diverse and have grown to celebrate multiculturalism. Couples today are increasingly choosing to personalize their ceremonies by weaving cultural and ancestral traditions into contemporary settings.
For Sri Lankan Australians, integrating the Poruwa Ceremony into an Australian wedding provides a perfect way to honor their heritage while staying true to their new cultural environment. It’s also a fascinating addition for wedding guests, as they witness a ceremony that is both exotic and full of vibrant rituals.
Key Elements of the Poruwa Ceremony
When incorporating the Poruwa Ceremony into an Australian wedding, these core elements are often included to retain its authentic charm while adapting it to the modern wedding format:
1. The Poruwa Platform
The centerpiece of the ritual, the Poruwa platform, is adorned with flowers, drapes, and intricate designs. It’s where the couple stands as the ceremony takes place. The decor can be customized to match the wedding theme while maintaining traditional Sri Lankan elements.
2. Traditional Attire
Priests and wedding planners often encourage the bride and groom to wear traditional Sri Lankan wedding attire. The bride typically dazzles in a Kandyan sari with detailed embroidery and jewelry, while the groom is adorned in a traditional “Mul Anduma” outfit.
3. The Role of Rituals
Several rituals are carried out during the Poruwa Ceremony, including lighting the oil lamp, exchanging betel leaves as a gesture of blessings, and tying the couple’s pinkies together with a gold thread amidst prayers. Each act is steeped in symbolism, representing unity, commitment, and blessings for a joyful married life.
4. Kandyan Dancers
To add vibrancy to the celebration, Kandyan dancers are often included as part of the procession. Their rhythmic movements, accompanied by traditional drumbeats, create a spectacular atmosphere, blending tradition with entertainment that delights all wedding guests.
Balancing Legal Requirements and Cultural Beliefs
Australian weddings incorporate legal requirements such as exchanging legally binding vows and signing the marriage certificate in front of witnesses. However, these formalities can seamlessly coexist with the spiritual elements of the Poruwa Ceremony.
Having collaborated with Sri Lankan wedding specialists, I’ve found that it’s entirely possible to honor cultural traditions while meeting Australian legal requirements. This ensures that the ceremony is not only legally valid but also culturally enriching.
Making it Special for You
Every couple is unique, and so is every wedding. The joy of working on multicultural ceremonies like the Poruwa Ceremony lies in the ability to create something deeply personal for the bride and groom. Together, we can design a ceremony that incorporates Sri Lankan traditions, reflects your love story, and delights your guests.
Final Thoughts
The Poruwa Ceremony is a stunning way to bring the magic of Sri Lankan traditions into an Australian wedding. It celebrates the couple’s heritage, adding depth and meaning to their union while creating cherished memories for years to come.
If you’re a bride, groom, or couple planning your wedding and seeking to incorporate the Poruwa Ceremony or other unique cultural elements, I’d love to work with you to make your special day a reflection of your story and traditions.
Feel free to reach out for a consultation—I’d be honored to help bring your vision to life and assist you be legally married as part of a traditional Sri Lankan Poruwa Ceremony.
To speak to traditional Sri Lankan Poruwa specialists who follow authentic wedding rituals Contact Dinesh at Sankha Ridma Dance Ensemble or Amila at Sankanjalee.
Your love, your story, your ceremony.
Commitment Ceremony: Celebrating Your Love
in Commitment Ceremony, Marriage💖 Commitment Ceremony: Celebrating Your Love
In a world that celebrates love in many forms, a commitment ceremony stands as a beautiful testament to a couple’s devotion—without the legal bindings of marriage. Whether it’s due to personal beliefs, celebrating a legal wedding at another time or place or simply a desire to honour love on their own terms, commitment ceremonies offer a deeply meaningful way to say “I choose
you.”
🌿 What Is a Commitment Ceremony?
A commitment ceremony is a symbolic celebration of love and partnership. It mirrors many elements of a wedding—vows, rituals, readings, and even a celebrant—but it doesn’t involve legal paperwork. It’s about affirming your bond in front of loved ones or in an intimate setting, with words and gestures that reflect your unique journey.
💬 Why Couples Choose It
Couples may opt for a commitment ceremony for many reasons:
🎤 The Celebrant’s Role
As a celebrant, my role is to craft a ceremony that honours the couple’s story. This might include:
📸 Capturing the Moment
Commitment ceremonies can be:
Each one is a chance to celebrate love in its purest form—without rules, just heart.
💰 Fees and What’s Included
The total cost for a commitment ceremony is $800, which includes:
📬 Ready to Celebrate Your Love?
If you’re dreaming of a ceremony that reflects your heart and story—without the legalities—I’d be honoured to help you bring it to life. Reach out today to start planning your commitment ceremony. Let’s make it unforgettable.
You can contact me via phone or text on +61 4114 20918 or book a Zoom Call.
How to Plan a Surprise Wedding in Sydney
in Marriage, Surprise Wedding🎉 How to Plan a Surprise Wedding in Sydney
A Guide to Pulling Off the Ultimate “I Do” Reveal
Imagine this: your guests arrive expecting a birthday bash, an engagement party, or a casual rooftop soirée… only to discover they’re about to witness your wedding. Cue gasps, happy tears, and a
wave of pure joy. Surprise weddings are the ultimate celebration of love—unfiltered, unforgettable, and uniquely yours.
Here’s how to plan one in Sydney, where iconic views and hidden gems make the perfect backdrop for your big reveal.
🌿 Step 1: Choose Your Cover Story
The key to a successful surprise wedding? A believable decoy.
• Engagement party – The classic choice. Guests already expect a celebration.
• Birthday or anniversary – Perfect if one of you has a milestone coming up.
• Garden party or rooftop drinks – Casual vibes work beautifully at venues like Melba’s Rooftop or The Grounds of Alexandria.
Keep it simple and consistent. Your guests shouldn’t suspect a thing until the moment arrives.
🏛️ Step 2: Pick a Venue That Plays Along
Sydney offers venues that can pivot from “party” to “ceremony” in a heartbeat:
Venue Type Examples Why It Works
Rooftop Bars Melba’s Rooftop, Henry Deane Casual, scenic, easy to disguise
Garden Spaces Royal Botanic Garden, Centennial Parklands Natural charm, flexible layout
Private Homes Backyard setups or Airbnbs Intimate, personal, budget-friendly
Restaurants Chiswick, The Boathouse Rose Bay Seamless transition from dinner to vows
Make sure the venue is in on the secret and can accommodate both the decoy event and the ceremony setup.
🤫 Step 3: Keep the Circle Small
💌 Step 4: Invitations That Don’t Give It Away
Design your invites to match the cover story. For example:
“Join us for drinks and dancing to celebrate our engagement!”
Use Canva to create sleek, on-brand visuals. Add a QR code for RSVP and venue details—no mention of “wedding” anywhere.
🎤 Step 5: Plan the Reveal Moment
This is where the magic happens. A few ideas:
Capture reactions with a videographer or ask a few guests to film discreetly. These moments are gold.
💐 Step 6: Keep It Simple, Keep It You
Surprise weddings thrive on authenticity. Focus on:
Sydney’s natural beauty does half the work—let it shine.
✨ Final Thoughts
A surprise wedding isn’t just about the shock factor—it’s about stripping away expectations and celebrating love in its purest form. In Sydney, with its blend of elegance and laid-back charm, you’ve got the perfect canvas.
If you’re dreaming of a ceremony that’s intimate, joyful, and full of whimsy, I’d be honoured to help you bring it to life… let’s talk!
From Qld to Sydney — 10 Years of Love & Legacy 💍✨
in Ceremony, Elope, Marriage, Wedding VowsFrom Qld to Sydney — 10 Years of Love & Legacy 💍✨
10 Years of Love & Legacy … nearly four years ago, my wife Margie, our 2 little dogs Nicki and Joey and I packed up our lives. We moved from Brisbane and took a leap moving my marriage celebrant business to Sydney — and what a beautiful chapter it’s been.
I have wonderful memories of heartfelt ceremonies across Brisbane, the Gold Coast & the Scenic Rim. New unforgettable moments have been created at great Sydney venues like Gunners Barracks, Curzon Hall, Taronga Events & Bennelong. I’ve had the honour of helping couples celebrate their love for a decade.
I’ve had the privilege of standing beside couples as they begin their greatest adventure as a married couple. Each ceremony has been a tapestry of emotion, tradition, and personal storytelling — woven with love, laughter, and in recent times a touch of Sydney magic.
What couples say about Michael Janz Celebrant
I’m incredibly grateful for the kind words couples have shared about their experience with me as their celebrant. Time and again, they’ve mentioned how much they appreciated my warmth, patience, and genuine interest in their story. I take pride in crafting ceremonies that feel personal and authentic. Whether that means helping with vow writing, navigating tricky logistics, or simply being a calming presence on the day. Guests often tell me how much they enjoyed the ceremony, how included they felt, and how the tone matched the couple perfectly. It’s an honour to create moments that linger in people’s hearts long after the wedding ceremony is over .
This city welcomed me with open arms. Its vibrant community, breathtaking locations, and incredible, diverse couples have shaped not just my work, but my heart. I’m endlessly grateful to every couple who has trusted me to tell their story — to honour their love with authenticity and care.
Sydney, you’ve become home. And with every “I do,” I’m reminded why I chose to build my legacy here.
Here’s to the next 10 Years of Love & Legacy — to unforgettable moments, meaningful rituals, and love that leaves a lasting imprint.
Let’s create something beautiful together 💙
What Makes a Wedding Venue Truly Shine
in MarriageWhat Makes a Wedding Venue Truly Shine: A Celebrant’s Insight into Sydney’s Most Stunning Spaces.
As a Sydney celebrant, I’ve had the privilege of officiating weddings in venues that don’t just dazzle with looks—they breathe life into love stories. Beyond the aesthetics, it’s the feeling, flow, and functionality that truly shape a wedding ceremony experience.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic
Practical Features
Guest Experience
Michael Janz Celebrant’s Picks: Sample of Sydney’s Standout Wedding Venues
Bennelong World Heritage dining inside the Opera House, views to Royal Botanic Gardens.
Gunners Barracks Historic charm, 3 outdoor ceremony spots, stunning harbour views.
Sergeants’ Mess Elegant interior and expansive harbour deck overlooking Chowder Bay.
Taronga Events Iconic zoo setting with panoramic views of the city and harbour.
Curzon Hall Castle-like elegance, lush gardens, romantic ballrooms.
Zest Waterfront (Point Piper & The Spit) Stylish themes and waterfront luxury with city proximity.
Lords Estate One of Sydney’s only private chapels, with tranquil gardens and historic charm.
Ottimo House Lush Australian landscape meets tailored wedding packages and premium service.
Wedding candle lighting rituals
in MarriageWedding candle lighting rituals are a beautiful way to symbolize unity, remembrance, and love. Here are some common types:
1. Unity Candle Ceremony
Example Unity Candle Wording A:
The lighting of these family candles symbolises __ and __ separate lives and pasts before today (bride and grooms mums light the candles). Through the love, support, wisdom and guidance they have both received from their families, they are here today to join their lives as one.
__ and __, with the light from your family candles, unite the two flames into one (bride and groom light centre candles). The unity of this flame symbolises the union of your families and your separate lives, into a commitment made in love and kept in faith. The two of you now have a fire that represents love, understanding and the future. It will give you warmth and happiness through even the darkest times. This new fire represents a new beginning, a new life and a new family.
Example Unity Candle Wording B:
Love is like an eternal flame,
once it is lit,
it will continue to burn for all time.
(by Frans Candles)
Example Wording C:
Soft mists embrace two golden flames,
Alone they search the night.
Two souls adrift in dreams of love,
They seek to claim the light.
The path is long from which they came,
But sure they are it’s right.
Two flames embrace in dreams of love,
Two Souls – Two Hearts Unite.
(By Harold Douglas)
2. Memorial Candle Lighting
Example Memorial Candle Lighting Wording A:
Before we begin our celebration today, Mabel and Fred would like us all to take a moment to remember those family members who are with them today only in spirit, especially ________________.
Mabel and Fred appreciate all of the love and support ____________ have given them throughout the years and would like to take a moment to remember them now with the lighting of these candles.
The light of their memory can never be extinguished in the hearts of those who loved them.
Example Memorial Candle Lighting Wording B:
Although death has separated us physically, faith and love have bound us eternally.
Though we cannot see you, we know you are here.
Though we cannot touch you, we feel the warmth of your smile, as we begin a new chapter in our lives.
Today we pause to reflect upon those who have shaped our character, molded our spirits and touched our hearts.
May the lighting of this candle be a reminder of the memories we have shared, a representation of the everlasting impact you have made upon our lives.
Example Memorial Candle Lighting Wording C Verse:
Although we cannot see you
We know that you are here
Smiling down, watching over us
As we say “I DO”
Forever in our hearts
Forever in our lives
And so we say our vows in
In loving memory of you
This light shines
as a symbol of life
and love remembered.
3. Family wedding candle lighting rituals
4. Cultural & Religious Wedding candle lighting rituals
Some multicultural traditions incorporate candle lighting in unique ways, such as Jewish weddings with the Shabbat candles or Hindu ceremonies with sacred flames. Check out where you can buy a wide range of candles.
Talk to your marriage celebrant how these wedding candle lighting rituals and other rituals can be incorporated into your ceremony.
Planning a destination wedding in Sydney
in MarriagePlanning a destination wedding in Sydney? That’s an incredible choice! Sydney offers breathtaking venues, from its iconic harbour to stunning beaches and lush gardens. Here are some key tips to make your dream wedding a reality:
1. Consider the type of wedding you want
2. The importance of an Authorised Marriage Celebrant
A marriage celebrant plays a crucial role in Australian weddings, ensuring that the ceremony is legally valid and meaningful. Here’s why they’re important:
Legal Requirements
Personalised Ceremonies
Inclusivity & Representation
Professionalism & Guidance
3. Choose the Perfect Venue
Sydney has a variety of venues to suit different styles:
4. Consider the Weather & Season
Sydney’s climate is generally mild, but:
5. Legal & Logistical Considerations
6. Add Local Flair
Incorporating the Veil and Cord Rituals in Your Wedding
in Ceremony, MarriageIncorporating the Veil and Cord Rituals in Your Wedding
Incorporating the Veil and Cord Rituals in your wedding are beautiful, symbolic elements. They can add depth and meaning to your wedding ceremony. They represent unity, love, and the strength of the bond between two individuals coming together as one. Here’s how these timeless traditions can be seamlessly woven into your special day.
The Veil Ritual
The veil ritual begins with family members draping a ceremonial lace veil over the bride’s head and the groom’s shoulder. This act is rich with meaning, symbolizing being “clothed as one” in their union.
The veil’s significance goes deeper, representing the protective mantle of love and family. Placing it over the couple, shows their willingness to face life’s joys and challenges together, supported by both their families and their community. The veil gently reminds everyone at the ceremony that love thrives through connection and shared responsibility.
For many couples, the veil also represents the sanctity of the marriage bond, grounding their union in shared faith, respect, and commitment.
The Cord Ritual (Yugal Ceremony)
Following the veil ritual, a ceremonial cord, a yugal, is wrapped around the couple in a figure-eight pattern. The figure-eight is significant as it symbolizes infinity, representing an unbreakable and eternal bond of fidelity.
Often crafted from silk or other elegant materials, the yugal’s interwoven threads represent the marriage. Two individual lives are now intertwined, bound by shared dreams and a common purpose.
Incorporating the Veil and Cord Ritual in your wedding a powerful visual and emotional declaration. The couple is no longer two separate individuals but one united entity, embarking on life’s adventures together.
Incorporating the Veil and Cord Rituals in Your Wedding: How To Do It
Why is Incorporating the Veil and Cord Rituals in Your Wedding Special
Including the veil and cord perfectly complements the celebration of your union. The veil signifies protection and shared strength, while the cord binds your love and commitment for eternity. These rituals are an embodiment of tradition meeting modern romance, creating a heartfelt moment that your guests will remember long after the ceremony.
If you’re preparing for your wedding and want to explore such meaningful traditions, take the time to discuss to with your celebrant. They can show how they can reflect your unique love story and values. These small, symbolic acts can carry tremendous emotional weight, elevating your wedding into a truly unforgettable experience!
Integrating the Poruwa Ceremony into an Australian Wedding
in Integrating Sri Lankan rituals into an Australian Wedding, Marriage, Poruwa Ceremony, Sri Lankan wedding ritualIntegrating the Poruwa Ceremony into an Australian Wedding… Weddings are not only a celebration of love but also a beautiful opportunity to blend cultures, traditions, and modern customs. One such harmonious integration that has been gaining attention is the incorporation of the Poruwa Ceremony—a traditional Sri Lankan wedding ritual—into Australian weddings. For brides and grooms of Sri Lankan heritage, this unique ceremony adds a deeply meaningful and cultural touch to their special day, while honoring traditions passed down through generations.
What is the Poruwa Ceremony?
The Poruwa Ceremony is an ancient Sri Lankan wedding ritual with roots tracing back thousands of years. It takes its name from the “Poruwa,” a beautifully decorated wooden platform where the couple exchanges vows and participates in symbolic rituals. The ceremony is rich in tradition and spirituality, emphasizing unity, respect, and blessings for the couple’s married life.
This ritual goes beyond mere formalities; it holds cultural significance, involving symbolic acts like tying the couple’s pinky fingers with a sacred thread, the offering of betel leaves, and traditional blessings from family members. Each step is designed to ensure luck, happiness, and prosperity for the newlyweds.
Why Incorporate the Poruwa Ceremony in Australian Weddings?
Australian weddings are wonderfully diverse and have grown to celebrate multiculturalism. Couples today are increasingly choosing to personalize their ceremonies by weaving cultural and ancestral traditions into contemporary settings.
For Sri Lankan Australians, integrating the Poruwa Ceremony into an Australian wedding provides a perfect way to honor their heritage while staying true to their new cultural environment. It’s also a fascinating addition for wedding guests, as they witness a ceremony that is both exotic and full of vibrant rituals.
Key Elements of the Poruwa Ceremony
When incorporating the Poruwa Ceremony into an Australian wedding, these core elements are often included to retain its authentic charm while adapting it to the modern wedding format:
1. The Poruwa Platform
The centerpiece of the ritual, the Poruwa platform, is adorned with flowers, drapes, and intricate designs. It’s where the couple stands as the ceremony takes place. The decor can be customized to match the wedding theme while maintaining traditional Sri Lankan elements.
2. Traditional Attire
Priests and wedding planners often encourage the bride and groom to wear traditional Sri Lankan wedding attire. The bride typically dazzles in a Kandyan sari with detailed embroidery and jewelry, while the groom is adorned in a traditional “Mul Anduma” outfit.
3. The Role of Rituals
Several rituals are carried out during the Poruwa Ceremony, including lighting the oil lamp, exchanging betel leaves as a gesture of blessings, and tying the couple’s pinkies together with a gold thread amidst prayers. Each act is steeped in symbolism, representing unity, commitment, and blessings for a joyful married life.
4. Kandyan Dancers
To add vibrancy to the celebration, Kandyan dancers are often included as part of the procession. Their rhythmic movements, accompanied by traditional drumbeats, create a spectacular atmosphere, blending tradition with entertainment that delights all wedding guests.
Balancing Legal Requirements and Cultural Beliefs
Australian weddings incorporate legal requirements such as exchanging legally binding vows and signing the marriage certificate in front of witnesses. However, these formalities can seamlessly coexist with the spiritual elements of the Poruwa Ceremony.
Having collaborated with Sri Lankan wedding specialists, I’ve found that it’s entirely possible to honor cultural traditions while meeting Australian legal requirements. This ensures that the ceremony is not only legally valid but also culturally enriching.
Making it Special for You
Every couple is unique, and so is every wedding. The joy of working on multicultural ceremonies like the Poruwa Ceremony lies in the ability to create something deeply personal for the bride and groom. Together, we can design a ceremony that incorporates Sri Lankan traditions, reflects your love story, and delights your guests.
Final Thoughts
The Poruwa Ceremony is a stunning way to bring the magic of Sri Lankan traditions into an Australian wedding. It celebrates the couple’s heritage, adding depth and meaning to their union while creating cherished memories for years to come.
If you’re a bride, groom, or couple planning your wedding and seeking to incorporate the Poruwa Ceremony or other unique cultural elements, I’d love to work with you to make your special day a reflection of your story and traditions.
Feel free to reach out for a consultation—I’d be honored to help bring your vision to life and assist you be legally married as part of a traditional Sri Lankan Poruwa Ceremony.
To speak to traditional Sri Lankan Poruwa specialists who follow authentic wedding rituals Contact Dinesh at Sankha Ridma Dance Ensemble or Amila at Sankanjalee.
Your love, your story, your ceremony.
Notice of Intended Marriage and Shortening of Time: What You Need to Know
in Ceremony, Legal Requirements Marriage, Marriage, Shortening of TimeNotice of Intended Marriage and Shortening of Time: What You Need to Know
Shortening of Time: planning a wedding can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. Amidst all the preparations, it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements for getting married in Australia, especially if you’re on a tight timeline. This blog post will guide you through the process of lodging a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and explain how to shorten the notice period if necessary.
The Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
Key Points:
. identity (driver’s licence/proof of age card or passport)
. proof that a previous marriage has ended
. to meet separately and in person with each party to a marriage.
Shortening of Time
Life doesn’t always go as planned, and sometimes couples need to get married sooner than the mandatory one-month waiting period. The good news is that it is possible to shorten this time under certain special circumstances as outlined in the Marriage Act and Regulations .
Conditions for Shortening of Time:
To qualify for shortening the notice period, your situation must fall into one of the five categories specified by the regulations:
Steps for Shortening of Time Notice Period in New South Wales:
Conclusion
Navigating the legal requirements for getting married in Australia can be a bit daunting, especially if you need to get married quickly. By understanding the Notice of Intended Marriage and the process for shortening of time notice period, you can ensure your big day goes off without a hitch.
If you’re in need of personalized guidance, book a call with an experienced Marriage Celebrant. They’ll help you refine your plans and ensure you have all the necessary documents for a seamless experience.
Get started… Call today and take the first step toward your happily ever after.
Getting married in Australia …the legal requirements made simple
in Ceremony, Legal Requirements Marriage, Marriage