Going to the chapel, and you’re going to get ma-ar-ar-ied? Right? Well actually, if you’re on the hunt for a marriage celebrant – or civil celebrant – it’s probably because you’re not getting married in a chapel – or a church!
The use of marriage celebrants is seriously on the rise when it comes to solemnised weddings in Australia. An increasing number of us are opting to have our ceremonies performed outside of churches, like in parks and gardens for example, with a slight decline in the number of religious wedding ceremonies occuring. But how do you choose the perfect marriage celebrant for you? There are a few things you need to know before you begin the hunt…
What is a marriage celebrant?
A marriage celebrant is a non-religious equivalent to a Priest or Minister, who is legally able to officiate marriages outside of a church. A marriage celebrant – or civil celebrant – does not have the authority to perform marriage ceremonies inside a church, but are legally able to do so anywhere else! Like a Priest or Minister, they are bound to perform a legal ceremony as it is recognised in the state in which the marriage is being officiated.
What does a marriage celebrant actually do?
A marriage celebrant is responsible for performing your wedding ceremony, and for ensuring it is legally binding. After the ceremony, your celebrant is required to lodge your legal paperwork with births, deaths and marriages, to ensure it is legal. A marriage celebrant may also help you to come up with readings and rituals to include in your ceremony, as well as out-of-the-box ideas, if that is your style. They may also assist you with writing your own vows, if that is something you choose to do.
What to look for in a marriage celebrant?
Fits with your vibe
If you’re a fun couple, you want your wedding ceremony to be equally as fun too! It’s always a great idea to have an initial meeting with a potential celebrant to see what they can bring to the table and if their vibe matches yours.
Good reviews
Check out their instagram account or website, does the marriage celebrant have good reviews, and great photos showcasing themselves performing wedding ceremonies?
Costing
There is a huge spectrum of what marriage celebrants charged, usually based on their experience and the amount of effort put into their ceremonies. Also, if you’re having a destination wedding, check out the travel fees your potential marriage celebrant is charging, as it may be more cost effective to go with a local celebrant.
Here are 10 of the best Sydney Marriage Celebrants in 2024:
1. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS SYDNEY
I Do By Olivia
Beautiful, bespoke and inclusive ceremonies in Sydney and beyond!
What makes ‘I do by Olivia’ different?
A writer for over 15 years, Olivia’s bread and butter is the written word. When a couple hires Olivia to officiate their wedding, they’re inviting her to get to the core of who they are as a couple. How did they meet? How did it feel? What is the absolute best thing about each other?
After the deep dive, Olivia takes this information, and the magic begins. Known for what she calls ‘the love story’, Olivia keeps this part of the ceremony a secret, and recites the story as a surprise to the couple during the ceremony. There is rarely a moment where guests aren’t either laughing or tearing up during this part. Aside from the ‘love story’, couples get full approval of Olivia’s ceremonies. A true collaboration, Olivia prides herself on presenting out-of-the-box ideas and concepts to her guests for them to consider. No ‘cookie cutter’ ceremonies around here! We want fun, and laughter – and love!
Olivia is also well trained in baby naming ceremonies, so whether that’s something you’re set to tick off before or after your wedding day – Liv’s your girl!
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT I DO BY OLIVIA
A word from Olivia:
“Hey! I want to marry you! That sounds weird, doesn’t it? Hmmm. I’ll try again! I’m a marriage celebrant, and I’d love to officiate your marriage! Is that better? I thought so! What makes me tick, despite the fact that I’ve been a writer ever since I could drink at a pub, is that I’m also the Editor of One Fine Day Weddings Fairs (yep, the website you’re reading right now!) This means I get amazing insight into the wedding industry; from the latest photography trends, to readings and rituals that get the crowd going! I also worked with Kyle & Jackie O for four years – so suffice to say that is where the ‘mischief’ I bring comes from!
As an earnest writer, I have also evolved into a vow specialist. With so many couples choosing to write their own vows these days, I’ve created templates to help – and always check that a couple’s vows are on the same page in terms of length and tone – we don’t want any tiffs at the altar after all!
As your celebrant, I literally go on the journey with you, and am so excitable that I often find myself helping couples with things like bridesmaid dresses and bouquets… can you tell I love weddings?! When you book with me, you get 1-2 meetings with me, unlimited amendments to your ceremony, lodging of all legal documents, solemnisation of your marriage – and I’ll even wear your preferred colour! (Because matching the bridesmaids is not a good look!)”
Real CLIENT review:
“Olivia could not have carried out the ceremony any better if she tried. It was personal, intimate, heartfelt – everything we could have hoped for and more! She nurtured us step-by-step through the entire process, provided guidance on our nuptials process, provided guidance on our personal vows and ensured we had everything we needed. Olivia not only carries herself with the utmost integrity as a celebrant but brings warmth and authenticity. Hand on heart we could not recommend her more highly.” – Ariana and Tom
Offer from Olivia:
10% off all ceremonies – just because you’re a legend! Just mention One Fine Day Wedding Expo when you get in touch!
E-mail: idobyolivia@gmail.com
2. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS SYDNEY
Hitched By Alex
What makes Hitched by Alex different:
“Your professional third wheel”
Alex is an Authorised Marriage Celebrant and LGBTQIA++ ALLY
She services the Western Sydney and Hawkesbury River area – and beyond!
Alex delivers heartfelt and meaningful ceremonies, while catering her ceremonies to suit the couple’s individual style!
A word from alex:
“Being a theatre kid I knew I wanted to do something where I got to be on a mic, so this came naturally. And the best part is I get to stand up there and be a part of such a pinnacle moment in people’s lives. And sometimes there’s cake after.”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HITCHED BY ALEX
3. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS SYDNEY
Oliver Thomson, Marriage Celebrant and Event MC
Relaxed, engaging, professional; these are the words that might just be the reason Oliver Thomson is regarded by many as Sydney’s finest celebrant.
What makes Oliver Thomson Celebrancy different?
Oliver Thomson has worked as a marriage celebrant since 2014, he’s also been a Master of Ceremonies since 2005! So to say he’s well versed in what makes a wedding ceremony amazing, would be an understatement. Oliver creates bespoke, personalised ceremonies that are relaxed, fun, casual and balanced with the sentiment.
Oliver creates each ceremony from scratch. No copy and paste. He takes time to understand couples to create a ceremony that is personalised and highly engaging. They’re engaging and they resonate with guests because they are relevant to the couple – and those they love most.
Why reach out to Oliver Thomson Celebrancy for your marriage ceremony?
If you’re after a marriage celebrant that is professional, confident and well spoken, friendly, warm – and sporting a quick wit – you’re in the right place.
A word from Oliver:
“I’m Oliver but you can call me Ollie. I’m a passionate, modern-minded celebrant who marries all loving couples looking for a unique, relaxed and creative ceremony with a touch of humour and a hint of cheek.
I’m Sydney-based and regularly travel to marry couples all around the country (or the globe).
From super chilled elopements to full ceremonies. Let’s chat about making yours one to remember.
No two couples are the same, so neither should their ceremonies.”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OLIVER THOMSON MARRIAGE CELEBRANT
Real client reviews:
“Oliver! Where to start. I was searching for a while for a celebrant that was, happy go lucky, vibrant, witty and full of character. That is exactly what Oliver was… From the first zoom call during covid times to us standing up there with him – we felt like he was family. If you are reading this looking for a celebrant stop what you’re doing and contact him, you wont regret it. We had so many compliments on Oli from our guests too. He really made us feel so natural up there. There were many giggles had, it was such a fantastic ceremony, thanks to Oli.
Thank you Oliver, we love you!!!!” – Keteilia & Luke
“Oliver was so incredible to work with in the lead up to, and on our wedding day! We were so grateful that we found someone who could create such a relaxed, personal and genuine ceremony with the perfect mix of love, humour and care. We honestly had such a magical day and if we could relive it we wouldn’t change a thing. Oliver was also the MC for our wedding reception, which was the best decision we made, the whole evening flowed beautifully and Oliver really showcased his ability to be adaptive, creative and personable.” – Lauren and Joel
4. MARRIAGE CELEBRANT SYDNEY
‘Happily Ever Arthur’
Meet Scarlett, a talented Sydney-based marriage celebrant and storyteller. Scarlett is dedicated to crafting weddings that are intimate, genuine, and tailored to each individual she unites. The most cherished feedback she receives is the recurring sentiment that it feels as if she has known the couples for years, with guests frequently praising it as the most exceptional ceremony they have ever witnessed.
The Happily Ever Arthur experience:
A bespoke wedding ceremony for you and your love.
Make it Official
On the Day Event Coordination & a Bespoke wedding ceremony for you and your love.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HAPPILY EVER ARTHUR
A word by Happily Ever Arthur:
“My name is Scarlett Arthur. I am a lover of love and a never-ending hopeless romantic.
I get excited about telling people’s love stories and helping to bring your special day to life.
A little bit about me, before I know a little bit about you. I’m obsessed with my greyhound, Elvis. In my spare time I like to relax with a nice glass of wine and Charcuterie board with my fiancé, preferably by the sea or countryside. It is the simple things in life that make me the happiest.”
What makes Happily Ever Arthur different?
Scarlett Arthur is the face of ‘Happily Ever Arthur’; a Sydney based love guru who is ready to make your day as fabulous as you are!
Scarlett’s unique and modern approach to weddings is what truly sets her apart from the rest.
Scarlett’s 8 years worth of experience in the events industry has ensured she is well prepared for each ceremony, and as a result, she always finds herself going the extra mile for her clients. Her favourite feeling in the world is knowing that she has made someone’s day just that little bit extra special and memorable.”
Her ethos is to curate a ceremony that represents you and your love. Weaving your story into your day and ensuring you are comfortable, confident and enjoying every moment is her highest priority!”
Real client reviews:
“Booking Scarlett as our wedding celebrant was easily the best decision we made for our big day. She created the most perfect ceremony which wove together the story of our lives, our relationship and our plan for the future as husband and wife. The ceremony was so full of love, laughter and tears and like all of the other reviews I’ve read, we were overwhelmed with how many of our guests came up to us during the evening to comment on how beautiful and perfect our ceremony was. The huge amount of effort and work she put into our ceremony made both of us feel like the most important people in the world and made it feel like the most special day of all time.
On top of that, Scarlett’s support and advice during the planning stages of our wedding was incredible. Planning a wedding can definitely become a stressful task but Scarlett regularly put both of us at ease as she helped us put together our run-sheet, discussed our options for the day and provided us with such invaluable advice on what would and wouldn’t work based upon her vast experience. From our very first meeting she made us feel so relaxed and she made the entire process on our end seem like such a breeze.
I couldn’t possibly recommend Scarlett highly enough. For anyone looking for a celebrant, you can have absolute confidence that Scarlett will ensure your day is simply perfect!”
5. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS SYDNEY
Georgia Fletcher Celebrant
A word from Georgia Fletcher:
“My name is Georgia Fletcher (she/her). Thank you so much for considering me as your celebrant. I honestly have one of the greatest jobs in the world. I am so grateful you’ve come across my page and still reading. I am super passionate about creating incredibly unique and personalised ceremonies. I put in a tonne of effort to get to know you and your fiance and ultimately, feel like a good friend is delivering your ceremony on your wedding day.
I love to be organised, efficient, highly professional and usually running accidentally early, even when I’m just trying to be on time. As a teacher, I love any excuse to whip out my laminator or label maker and make sure everything is presented perfectly. I’m a sucker for a good love story and ensure your ceremony script reflects who you are as a couple.
Throughout the planning process, we chat over the phone or over a coffee so I can get to know you and your fiance. I want to make sure you feel confident and comfortable when you lock eyes at the altar, that moment becomes all about you two. Nobody else.”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GEORGIA FLETCHER CELEBRANT
6. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS SYDNEY
Grace the Celebrant
A word from Grace:
“I became a celebrant because I couldn’t think of a better or more fun job in the world than to be with happy people on their happiest day and be able to play a part in creating the best memories for my couples.
What sets me apart? I will put everyone at ease, make everyone feel welcome and included, and be your number one Hype Girl/organisation queen so everything runs smoothly on the day.
One of my core values is inclusivity and I am a firm believer in love and equality for all! Any guys, gals or non-binary pals wanting to marry another consenting and legally able human of any description, you’ve come to the right place.
Outside of being a Nuptial Ninja, I’m also a dietitian. My interests include bottomless brunches, potluck dinners, thrift shopping, laughing at my own jokes and exploring the world with my adventure buddy/fiancee Matt.
After an incredible stint in Alice Springs NT, I’ve recently relocated back home to Sydney NSW. Happy to conduct ceremonies anywhere from the Hunter Valley, down to the South Coast, any beyond!”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GRACE THE CELEBRANT
7. MARRIAGE CELEBRANT SYDNEY
Let’s Say I Do – Alisha Perkins
A word from Alisha:
“My name is Alisha Perkins [she/her] and I am an Authorised Marriage Celebrant located on the South Coast of NSW. I am a proud supporter of gender equality and marriage equality.
My hubby and I started dating when we were 15 years old and said ‘I Do’ on our 10th anniversary. We celebrated 17 years together this year – which makes me sound so old! But i’m only 32! I am a mum to my beautiful son and two fur babies!
I create wedding ceremonies that are romantic and personalised while adding some fun and laughter!
While this is what my ceremony vibe is, we work together to determine what your ceremony vibe is and that is what I will deliver!
I ensure you’re relaxed and help you limit any anxiety you may have around your ceremony and the lead up to your day.
I would love to get to know you! Get in contact to discuss your needs.”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LET’S SAY I DO – ALISHA PERKINS
8. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS SYDNEY
Married by Allegra
A word from Allegra:
“I’m Allegra (Dotty to my inner circle!) and I’m an ex-corporate lawyer in love with love!
I hitch the lovers all over NSW, Australia and really, anywhere else on the globe where you might wanna seal the deal! I also have a major crush on the good old exclamation mark (or hadn’t you noticed?).
With me as your celebrant, your guests will walk away from your ceremony with makeup smudged from crying, bellies sore from laughing, and rip roaring ready to party.
If I sound like your kinda gal – hit the link and send me an enquiry!”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MARRIED BY ALLEGRA
9. MARRIAGE CELEBRANT SYDNEY
Married by Adam, Marriage Celebrant + MC
If you’re after a marriage celebrant that will capture the attention of the room in a way that will entertain and delight, Adam is your guy.
A little bit about Adam, by Adam:
Hey, I’m Adam. I’m a Marriage Celebrant, MC, and what some may call a fun guy based in Sydney’s Inner West. I enjoy having a beer, listening to good tunes, and hanging out with dogs. Since being asked to be part of my brother’s wedding as a celebrant many years ago, I found a love and passion for being a part of two people’s big day!
I’m a firm believer that a wedding should be a reflection of you. I’m all about injecting the fun, involving your guests, and making it the best part of the whole bloody day.
It’s out with the old and dull ceremonies and in with the weddings full of absolute joy – setting the tone for the party to come! With your guidance, we will create a unique, energetic, and unforgettable ceremony like no other. I will have your crew laughing, cheering, and even having a good ol’ ugly cry. All the feels, every single one of ‘em.”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MARRIED BY ADAM
What is at the core of Adam’s ceremonies?
Fun, laughter, memorable moments – and a ceremony that fits your style! This is what Married by Adam does best!
Real client reviews:
“Adam is just the most invigorating, personable and energetic person to have as your celebrant! We knew from the first zoom meeting with Adam that we had found our match, and subsequently cancelled our other celebrant meetings as we couldn’t be swayed!
Adam tells the story of your relationship in such a personalized way that anyone in the crowd could mistake him as a close friend of the couple. He does an incredible job in tailoring the ceremony to match the type of energy and vibe you want to portray. Our ceremony was fun and filled with so many laughs, he involves the crowd and ensures everyone is having a great time. Adam provides so much support through emails and helped us to ensure the vows were similar without either of us knowing what the other wrote. If you’re looking for someone who can summarise your relationship into a well told story, ensure your ceremony is fun, and for someone who just has a relaxing and calm vibe about him, look no further than Adam!” – Jason Broadbent
“To preface this review, I was an Insta fan of Adam’s well before we booked him and goodness did he live up to his fame! Ok, I knew I wanted to book Adam as our celebrant and MC before we were even engaged… so naturally, Adam was the first vendor I contacted, just two days after Sven popped the question!
We organised a Zoom meeting with Adam and Ange (his lovely planner wife from Lovers Co.) before we had locked in the venue. Why? Because if Adam wasn’t available that day, then we’d have to find another day! Thank goodness they were available, so we locked them in (1 year in advance) and then everything else fell into place like magic (they’re magic). How was he magic? We had a White Tie dress code at the Museum of Contemporary Art with a live Jazz Band, but the thing is, we’re actually really quite down to earth and chilled people (well we think we are), so we wanted to make sure that the vibe wasn’t stuck up or pompous…. enter fun, lively, cheeky, quirky Adam! Having only met us twice (once in person), he was not only able to artfully capture who we are but he also made light of the day (and the many changes due to the rain), making it so much fun! We had so many lovely comments from our guests about how great Adam was. My highlight was his joy in seeing a rainbow over the opera house and brining my attention to it. He’s truly magic. Thank you Adam, we love you! Mwah *exaggerated chefs kiss*” – Melanie Raimundo
10. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS SYDNEY
Marry Me Sarah B
Sarah B’s ceremonies are heartfelt, yet have a side of cheekiness and fun about them!
What makes Marry Me Sarah B different?
It’s time to get creative and make the ceremony uniquely yours!
Sarah takes pride in herself, and the fact that her ceremonies are heartfelt yet have a side of cheekiness and fun about them. She loves hearing her couples and guests giggle throughout the ceremony, but also the collective silence as she performs a legal and sacred ceremony that reflects the couple perfectly.
Here to guide you and offer suggestions to create a ceremony your friends and family will be talking about for years to come, Sarah will provide inspiration when you need it. Sarah B’s most common feedback from guests from her weddings are ‘That was so much fun! I didn’t know a ceremony could be like that!’ and ‘ How do you know the couple? We have never met you.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MARRY ME SARAH B
A word from Sarah B:
“I’m passionate about really getting to know my couples and creating their dream day. As your celebrant, your ceremony will be created from scratch, full of joy and packed with love. What most people don’t know is there are only a few things that make a wedding legal. Beyond the formal bits, the rest is up to you! I want you to get creative and make the ceremony uniquely yours.
I am here to guide you and offer suggestions to create a ceremony your friends and family will be talking about for years to come.”
Real client review:
“Sarah is truly is one of a kind…. the love, passion, and authenticity she has for what she does honestly radiates from her. If she’s not smiling with you, she’s laughing and crying with you. Our wedding day truly would not have been the same without her. Sarah takes the time to really genuinely get to know the couples she’s working with…the nitty gritty details, she doesn’t just scratch the surface. Everything was so personalised and so ‘us’. She had our guests constantly laughing, and I had several people comment on how fantastic she was. I can’t wait for my friends to get married because I know she will be officiating their weddings too! She’s such a special person, and having Sarah be a part of your special day will be one of the best decisions you make. You’ll love her as much as we do!! I’ve included one of my favourite photos from our wedding…capturing perfectly the moment she said something funny that had us all in tears of laughter!”
An offer for the One Fine Day community:
Sarah B would love to offer a 10% discount for booking her for your ceremony and the same discount if you book her for a celebrant and MC package. Simply mention One Fine Day when speaking to her.
To discover more wedding suppliers, check out the One Fine Day Directory.
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