Terms & Conditions

Last updated: 29 September 2025

Introduction

Hi, I’m Sharon Toner (Hunter Valley marriage celebrant). These terms cover my services and how this website and my communications are used. If anything isn’t clear, please ask me before booking.

Contact: 0493 893 000 • shaz@sharontoner.au

1. Scope of Services

I create and deliver marriage ceremonies, funerals, and life celebrations. For weddings, I take care of the legal steps required of a Commonwealth-authorised celebrant under the Marriage Act 1961 (Cth) (e.g., NOIM, identity checks, certificates, and lodgement after the ceremony). Exact inclusions depend on your proposal/package and these terms.

2. What's Included (Weddings)

Please see the pricing page for details. Unless your proposal says otherwise, my wedding service typically includes:

  • Consultation time at our agreed meeting locations and unlimited contact/support during planning.
  • Legal paperwork prepared and lodged, and I arrange the official registry Marriage Certificate to be posted to you (registry fee currently $68, covered by me).
  • A planning catch-up ~12 weeks out to finalise legals and map your ceremony.
  • Vows support (guide, ideas) and printed vow books.
  • Vendor liaison as needed, plus day-of guidance so you can relax.
  • PA system + microphone (Bose) and I can coordinate your Spotify playlist.
  • Rehearsal: online or in-person, depending on package (Micro = online; Ceremony = online or in person).
  • Travel & time for rehearsal and ceremony day within 80 km total travel (combined); extra travel is $0.94/km.
  • On-the-day presence from guest arrival and a reasonable time after, as needed (Ceremony package).
  • Wet-weather backup umbrellas (up to 40 clear umbrellas) at no extra charge (Ceremony package).
  • I’m exclusive to your date—I don’t book other ceremonies that day.

3. What's Not Included

  • Themed ceremony requirements (costumes/special props) and any ritual items unless stated.
  • Venue hire/permits, extra AV, interpreters, parking/tolls, accommodation if required, and additional rehearsals or extended on-site hours beyond your package.
  • Additional rehearsals or extended on-site hours beyond your package.

4. Package-Specific Staged Fees & Payments

To secure and prepare your date, package fees are staged as follows:
Package Booking Fee Planning Fee Balance
Premium $500 non-refundable on acceptance $800 non-refundable due 12 weeks out Due 2 weeks prior to ceremony
Intimate $400 non-refundable on acceptance $400 non-refundable due 12 weeks out Due 2 weeks prior (Rehearsal is online)
Registry $250 non-refundable on acceptance $250 non-refundable due 12 weeks out Due 2 weeks prior

5. No-Refunds Policy

Please read carefully:

  • Booking and planning fees (per Section 4) are non-refundable.
  • If you cancel or postpone your ceremony, you forfeit these payments.
  • Balance payments may be refundable in some circumstances (see below).
  • If I need to cancel due to illness or emergency, you’ll receive a full refund or rebooking option.

6. Changes & Cancellations

  • Minor changes to ceremony details are usually fine and included in your service.
  • Major changes (date, venue, significant guest count) may incur additional fees.
  • If you need to cancel or postpone, please contact me as soon as possible.
  • Postponement to a new date within 12 months may be possible (subject to availability and additional travel costs if applicable).

7. Privacy & Photography

  • I respect your privacy and follow Australian Privacy Principles.
  • Personal information is only used for ceremony purposes and legal requirements.
  • With your permission, I may take photos during your ceremony for my portfolio and social media.
  • You can opt out of photography or request specific restrictions.

8. Liability & Insurance

  • I carry professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
  • My liability is limited to the value of services provided.
  • I’m not responsible for venue-related issues, weather, or third-party services.
  • You’re responsible for ensuring your venue permits and guest safety.

9. Force Majeure

If circumstances beyond reasonable control (natural disasters, government restrictions, serious illness) prevent ceremony delivery, we’ll work together to find a solution. This may include postponement, modified delivery, or refund of balance payments.

10. Governing Law

These terms are governed by NSW law. Any disputes will be resolved through good faith discussion first, then mediation if needed.

By booking my services, you agree to these terms. If you have questions, please ask before proceeding.