5 Questions to Ask Your Marriage Celebrant Before You Book

With so many celebrants to choose from, how do you know if you’ve found the right one? As a Sydney marriage celebrant, I always recommend asking these 5 practical questions before you book. They’ll give you real insight into a celebrant’s style, professionalism, and passion.

1. Why did you become a celebrant?

This question gets straight to the heart of who they are. Every celebrant has their own story - whether it’s a love of people, a passion for storytelling, or a personal experience that inspired them. Their answer will tell you if their “why” resonates with you, and whether they’ll bring the warmth and energy you want on the day.

2. How many weddings do you do in a day?

Some celebrants book multiple ceremonies in one day, which can mean rushing between weddings. Asking this question helps you understand whether they’ll have the time and focus to dedicate fully to your ceremony. The right celebrant will make you feel like you’re their top priority.

3. What happens if you’re unwell or have an emergency?

It’s not the most romantic question, but it’s one of the most important. Life happens! A professional marriage celebrant will always have a backup plan and a trusted network of colleagues who can step in if needed. This gives you peace of mind that your wedding ceremony will go ahead no matter what. Actually you should be asking all your vendors this question!

4. What’s your ceremony process or style?

Every celebrant works differently. Some are formal and traditional, others are relaxed and modern. Ask about their process: how they get to know you, how they write your story, and how they deliver it on the day. Do they share the ceremony script with you or do they leave it as a surprise for the day? Their answer will help you picture whether their style matches the vibe you’re imagining.

5. What time do you arrive on the day?

It might seem like a small detail but a good celebrant arrives early to check the space, test the sound, coordinate with your vendors, and calm any last-minute nerves. This level of professionalism ensures you can focus on being in the moment, knowing everything else is taken care of.

Final Thoughts

Your celebrant is the heartbeat of your ceremony. Not only do they handle the legalities but they set the tone for your ceremony, tell your story, and guide you through one of the biggest moments of your life. Asking these questions will give you a clear sense of their professionalism, personality, and passion.

💡 FAQs

How do I choose the right marriage celebrant in Sydney?

Look for someone you connect with, who makes you feel comfortable, and who takes the time to get to know you. Asking the 5 questions above will help you compare celebrants beyond just price.

What makes a good celebrant?

A good celebrant is professional, prepared, and passionate about their work. They’ll have a clear process, a calm presence, and a way of making your guests feel included as part of the celebration.

Do all marriage celebrants provide a PA system?

I bloody hope so - they most definitely should!

Thanks for reading!

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