How much does a marriage celebrant cost?

Fees vary from one celebrant to another and ranges from a few hundred dollars to a thousand or more. Why does it cost so much for 20 minutes of work, you might ask?

Well, apart from the legal paperwork, there are various factors to consider. Are you getting married on a weekday, weekend, or a public holiday? Where is the ceremony being held? Does it require much travelling? Do you need a marquee? What is involved in the ceremony? And you will need a sound system so your guests can hear the ceremony.

Typically, I would meet with the couple for two hours or so to get to know you. We can complete the Notice of Intended Marriage and print it on the spot with my portable printer.

Over coffee we can chat about the kind of ceremony you want. You can tell me your stories to help with the wording for your ceremony. You might have some specific ideas, rituals or a theme in mind.

Get to know each other over a coffee or two

I might quote you, say, $750 for a total package that includes all legal paperwork, creating and delivering the ceremony, “order of service” booklets for your guests, plus rehearsal and travel. If necessary I will also research for you if you need a permit from the local council (if you want to get married in a public park, for instance). I will also get you the official marriage certificate from BDM when I register your marriage.

Between our meeting and the wedding, I will be in regular contact by email and phone. This is to make sure I have the correct details to create your unique ceremony and get your story right. You can make changes to the draft. I will re-write.

We’ll do a rehearsal on the day prior to the ceremony so everyone involved knows what to expect.

Signing Table and Chairs are a MUST HAVE item

Finally, the day comes. I arrive half an hour early to set up the signing table and chairs that I provide, make sure the sound system works and greet your guests as they arrive.

By the time your ceremony is done I would have spent over 20 hours in creating a personal and memorable ceremony. When I get home afterwards I will finalize the legal paperwork.

Most celebrants don’t have fixed fees because not every wedding is the same. It’s easy to find a celebrant. But to find one who works with you every step of the way to achieve what you want. That’s priceless.

#iloveweddings