To order a copy of the free kit phone 1800 050 009 or visit
www.facsia.gov.au/keysKeys to Living Together - Taking the First Step
Taking the first step and getting married to someone you love is one of the most exciting and important times in your relationship.
There are many things to be considered, however in all the excitement of planning a wedding many couples forget to spend some time thinking about the relationship.
The Australian Government Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs recently launched a relationship skill building kit, Keys to Living Together Taking the First Step to help.
The kit includes a DVD and mini-magazine full of practical information to help you develop your own set of relationship tools. The kit provides articles and activities on everything from setting expectations and goals to developing a budget and getting married.
Relationships Australia NSW chief executive Anne Hollonds says the kit is about helping to create a foundation for a partnership that is sustainable for all the ups and downs.
To order a copy of the free kit phone 1800 050 009 or visit
www.facsia.gov.au/keysBelow is a sneak peek of the kit:
Getting married
Ask anyone that has been through the process of planning a wedding and they will probably tell you that while it was exciting and romantic, it was also hectic and stressful. Whether you are planning to elope or to invite everyone that has ever been part of your life, there are some things you can do to help the process run smoothly.
Agree on a budget together. Think about what style of wedding you want, ask yourself if that is realistic. Work out who will pay for what. Agree on a set amount of guests. Once these details have been set, try to stick to them.
Agree on a guest list. This can be really difficult for a lot of couples. Be realistic, you cannot invite everyone, think about the people that you and your partner really want to share your day with.
Select your wedding party carefully. Be aware of the possible repercussions of your decision. If you are worried about creating problems with your friends, a family member can often be a safe choice. Before making your decision, consider
what you are expecting from your wedding party. Will the person you are choosing be able to make all of the commitments? Are they able to afford the money involved?
Visit, sample, test. When you are making the decisions on your venue, catering and entertainment make sure you experience them before the day. Ask the venue if you can come and watch other weddings or events that may be
going on. Visit a number of caterers and ask them to supply you with samples. If you are having live entertainment, go to a gig. If you decide on a DJ, make sure they have all the tracks you want to hear.
Wedding photos. Decide if you will get a professional photographer or ask a relative or friend to take your pics. Choose carefully. It may be difficult for your photographer to take part fully in the day. Whatever you decide, make sure you have
a look at their previous work. All photographers have a different style, so make sure you talk to them about what you want and expect.
Decide on a name. Make sure you dont forget to talk about what name you will use once you are married. This can often be more complicated than you think!
Remember while you want your wedding day to be special, it is really only the beginning. Make sure you spend some time and energy thinking about how your marriage will work as well.
For more information please visit
www.facsia.gov.au