Things to consider when choosing your Marriage Celebrant

Think about the kind of couple you both are

You probably already know a lot about each others likes and dislikes. Discuss weddings you have recently attended. Focus on details of the wedding and simply make a note of how you liked them.

How do you find your celebrant?

Search on Venue Finder, there are many style and a range of providers. You can find your perfect marriage celebrant on venuefinder.nz as it has one of the largest selection of marriage celebrants throughout New Zealand.

If you have been recommended to a celebrant, do your research and check out their website. Remember, you are entrusting your celebrant with a lifelong memory. You want to be sure you choose the best one for you!

Celebrant Checklist

A celebrant’s profile will give you a good feel of their style of presentation. Most professionals include an image and this can also assist you in deciding if you feel comfortable with their look. Apart from the style of the website giving you an idea, check out what they focus on the website.

• Contact your celebrant by email or phone.
• Ask the celebrant if they have conducted ceremonies in the style you like.
• Make an appointment to visit the celebrant in person. You will get a better feel if you will feel comfortable with them.
• Check if the celebrant has their own PA system – by law they are obligated to ensure everyone attending can hear the ceremony.

What is included?

Your celebrant doesn’t just turn up on the day – there are many “behind the scenes” things to be done!

• Your celebrant meets with you, often more than once
• A visit to your wedding location prior to the date is often included
• Ongoing communication, including details of the ceremony
• Solemnisation of your ceremony
• Preparation and lodgement of requisite documentation to Attorney General’s Department and Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages. These include:

On the Day

For a marriage ceremony to be legally binding, there are essentially 3 requirements on the day:

1. The Celebrant must state their legal authority to perform marriages and must state the definition of marriage according to law in New Zealand.
2. The couples must exchange vows – these include a specific statement as well as their own vows if they so wish.
3. Sign the certificates (with two witnesses) and the marriage register Other aspects, such as rituals, symbolism, exchange of rings, readings and music are of your choosing.

Price

There is no set price for a marriage celebrant. Price varies depending often on the location and additional inclusions. Ask your celebrant for details of what they include – some offer extra services. A deposit is generally required, and it is worth checking if any of this amount is non-refundable. The balance is due prior to the wedding, often at your final meeting.

If the celebrant is unable to attend on the day, it is their responsibility to provide you with a replacement.