FAQs
Do you conduct ceremonies outside of Christchurch?
Absolutely, I do! Please do not let location stop you from contacting me. I'll be more than happy to discuss travel with you. Please note, there will an additional fee for travel (and accommodation if required) for anything outside of the Christchurch region.
What do you actually do as a celebrant?
WELL- I make your marriage or civil union legal of course! But I do so much more than just signing some paperwork!
It is my job to guide you in your entire ceremony planning journey. Get in touch to find out more about how I can help.
Do you charge a booking fee?
Yes, I charge a non-refundable $150 fee to secure your date. The remaining balance is due 2 weeks before your ceremony date
How will I know if you have my wedding date available?
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Get in touch via my contact form on the home page telling me your wedding date, and I will let you know!
Do you arrange our marriage or civil union license?
No, but I can support you in the process and am here to answer any questions you have. You can apply for your license at the link below. The application fee is $150, and this is payable to Births, Deaths & Marriages at the time of application. It is valid for 90 days from the issue date. I also recommend ordering your marriage certificate at the same time (this comes with an additional fee of $33).
https://marriages.services.govt.nz/
What are your hours of availability?
I have a full time career in the tech industry, and being a marriage & civil union celebrant is something I do on the side because I love it! I also have a busy life with my child, husband, and our fur-babies. You are welcome to email me, or DM me on Facebook/Instagram at any time, and I will get back to you as soon as I can (usually within 24 hours) but please only text or call me within business hours :)
Do we have to have a rehearsal?
This is totally up to you! I definitely recommend it though. During a rehearsal we will go over the order of the ceremony, timing of the music and walking, where everyone will be standing, your entrance and exit, get familiar with the space, and go over any last minute details. It will help everyone who is involved feel prepared for the big day!
What do you wear?
This is something that I will discuss with you! I do my best to accommodate your colour scheme and ceremony theme/style. I will always ask what colour your wedding party is wearing (if you have one) and make sure we are not matching, but not clashing.
What happens if you can no longer be our celebrant last minute?
Unfortunately, I am not immune to the occasional illness or family emergency! If something like this happens, I will make sure that I am communicating with you every step of the way. I work with a collective of wonderful celebrants, and will find one who fits your vibe and will step in.
What happens if we change the ceremony date or cancel?
I totally understand that life happens, and sometimes there are things outside of our control! If you need to change your date for any reason, I will work with you to accommodate the change. Alternatively, if I'm no longer available, I will help to find you an equally awesome celebrant to take over. If you decide to cancel, I will keep the non-refundable booking fee as per my terms and conditions
When should we engage with a celebrant?
Ideally, as soon as you start your wedding planning! A celebrant is the only legal requirement of your ceremony, while everything else is a "nice to have". Make sure you get your celebrant booked as soon as you have a date sorted.
What time do you arrive & leave on the ceremony day?
I will arrive at your venue 30-45 minutes prior to the ceremony starting. This gives me time to get myself set up, check in with your other vendors, chat with your guests, and make sure everything is running smoothly before we start! Once your ceremony has finished, I will sort out my stuff, hand you your official paperwork, get a photo with you, and quietly sneak out leaving you to enjoy the rest of your special day :)