10 Questions to Ask Your Celebrant Before Booking

So, you’ve started wedding planning and realised… wait a sec, how do I choose a celebrant and how do you know if they’re “the one”?

Great question.

Here’s the thing: not all celebrants are created equal. Some are by-the-book. Some are by-the-vibe. Some will read a standard script, others will write you a ceremony that sounds like it came straight from your heart.

As a celebrant in Melbourne who’s married over 1,000 couples (yes, really), I can tell you this: finding the right celebrant is about way more than just ticking a legal box. This is the person standing beside you as you say your “I do’s” – setting the tone, calming your nerves, and helping create one of the most memorable moments of your life.

Whether you’re getting married in the Yarra Valley, on a rooftop in Fitzroy, or barefoot on the beach at the Mornington Peninsula, here are 10 questions to ask your celebrant before you book. Plus, you get a little insight into what you might hear if you were chatting with me (hi, I’m Julie – celebrant, MC, and professional good-vibes generator).

What’s your celebrant style – and how do you personalise ceremonies?

Every celebrant brings their own energy and flavour to a ceremony. Some are formal and traditional. Others (hi again) are upbeat, fun, relaxed, inclusive and a bit cheeky when the moment calls for it. I am like a fabulous friend who just happens to be legally authorised to marry you.

What to listen for:
Do they take the time to get to know you? Will they write a ceremony that reflects you, not just their go-to script?

Julie says:
All my ceremonies are written from scratch. No templates, no snooze-fests. Just good stories, real moments, and a vibe that feels like you two.

What’s included in your fee?

Celebrant fees vary depending on their experience, what’s included, and how much work they put in behind the scenes (spoiler alert: it’s a lot).

What to listen for:
Transparency. Do they include meetings, travel, legal paperwork, lots of suggestions, questionnaires, writing the ceremony, PA system, etc.?

Julie says:
My packages are clearly outlined – no hidden extras, with couples getting a complete planning pack, access to loads of ceremony ideas, custom-written scripts, legal lodgement, and me bringing the good vibes on the day. No cookie-cutter ceremonies here.

What’s does your ceremony planning process like?

You want to know what it’s like to work with them from “hello” to “you may kiss the bride/partner/best friend for life.”

What to listen for:
Structure, communication, and support. Do they guide you through each step? Are they responsive? Do they give you resources?

Julie says:
We start with a Zoom catch-up, then once you’re booked in, I send you my famous planning pack. From there, you receive questionnaires, we chat, plan, laugh, and build a ceremony that feels just right.

Can we read or edit the ceremony script before the day?

Some celebrants don’t allow edits or previews. Others are more flexible. It’s good to know what to expect.

What to listen for:
How much input will you have? Will you feel surprised (in a good way) or worried on the day?

Julie says:
Absolutely, we go over the ceremony script together. I want you to feel confident and calm when the big day comes. It’s your story, you get a say.

Do you help with writing our vows?

Vows can be tricky. Some couples love writing them. Others panic at the idea. A great celebrant will support you, whichever camp you’re in.

What to listen for:
Do they offer tips, templates, guidance? Can they help with structure or wording?

Julie says:
You’ll get my vow writing guide (complete with examples and prompts), and I’m here to workshop ideas with you anytime. You don’t have to sound like Shakespeare – you just need to sound like you.

What do you wear and how do you present yourself on the day?

You don’t want your celebrant turning up in a loud floral shirt (unless that’s your thing) or clashing with your theme.

What to listen for:
Do they dress appropriately and professionally? Are they happy to blend in with your vibe?

Julie says:
I dress to suit the couple and the day’s vibe. Think polished, stylish and celebrant-chic without stealing the show.

What kind of PA system do you use?

Sound matters. Your guests should be able to hear every moment – especially the vows and legal bits.

What to listen for:
A good quality, battery-powered PA with wireless mic is ideal. Make sure it’s reliable and works for outdoor or non-powered venues.

Julie says:
My PA system is professional, clear, portable and tested to within an inch of its life. No screeching feedback, no crackly audio – just crisp, clear sound.

What happens if you get sick or can’t make it?

It’s rare, but things can happen. A professional celebrant will have a back-up plan and trusted network in place.

What to listen for:
Do they have a plan B? Can they send a script to a colleague or have someone take over?

Julie says:
In 1,000+ weddings, I’ve never missed one. But if the unthinkable happens, I’ve got a network of trusted celebrants who can step in – and all your paperwork and script would be ready to go.

Why should we choose you as our celebrant?

This one’s a bit cheeky – but it’s also the most important. You want a celebrant who’s a great fit, who feels like a friend, and who can set the tone for your whole day.

What to listen for:
Do they light you up? Do they feel like your kind of human? This isn’t just about paperwork – it’s about connection.

Julie says:
Because I’ll care about your day as much as you do. I’ll bring the calm, the laughs, the happy tears, and the experience to make your ceremony feel effortless, personal, and unforgettable.

Choosing a Celebrant in Melbourne (or anywhere)

Your celebrant is more than just someone who shows up with a mic and a folder. They’re the one who sets the vibe, tells your story, and makes the most meaningful part of your day feel just right.

There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all celebrant and that’s the beauty of it.

So don’t be afraid to ask the questions that matter, trust your gut, and choose someone who feels like a cheerleader, guide, and pro all rolled into one. And if that person you’re after happens to be a fun, fabulous, and friendly celebrant from Melbourne with a solid reputation and a wicked sense of humour – well, I know a girl.

Want to find out if I’m the right fit for your big day? Let’s jump on a Zoom and chat!