10 Questions to Ask Your Marriage Celebrant…
…Before You Book Them
The Ultimate Celebrant Checklist for Couples Planning a Wedding
Choosing the right marriage celebrant is a big deal. They’re not just the person who makes your marriage legal they’re the storyteller, the vibe-setter, and often the calming presence you didn’t know you needed on your wedding day. So, how do you choose a celebrant who’s the perfect fit for your love story?
As a fun and modern Melbourne marriage celebrant (hi, I’m Maddi!), I believe every couple should feel confident, comfortable, and totally aligned with the person standing beside them on one of life’s biggest days. That’s why I’ve put together this simple but powerful celebrant checklist, 10 essential questions to ask your marriage celebrant before you book.
These questions will help you find someone who’s not just qualified, but also totally your vibe.
1. Are you a registered marriage celebrant?
Let’s start with the non-negotiable. Your celebrant must be legally authorised to perform marriages in Australia. You can ask to see their registration or check the Attorney General’s website to confirm. I’ve been proudly registered since 2022 and absolutely love what I do.
2. What’s your ceremony style?
Every celebrant brings their own energy to the day. Some are formal, some are very laid-back, and others (like me!) mix heart with humour to keep things fun, warm, and personal. Make sure their style matches what you’re imagining for your big moment.
3. How do you personalise the ceremony?
This is a big one. Your ceremony should feel like you, not a copy paste from someone else’s. Ask how your celebrant gets to know you, what elements can be customised, and how they weave your story into the script. I include a couple’s questionnaire, a Zoom or in-person chat, and optional vow coaching to make it as personal as possible.
4. What’s included in your fee?
Make sure you know exactly what you’re paying for. Does the fee cover legal paperwork, rehearsal time, a PA system, or vow assistance?
For me, it’s all-inclusive no hidden costs, no stress.
5. Do you help with writing vows?
Not everyone is a born poet, and that’s okay. If the idea of writing vows makes you sweat, ask if your celebrant offers guidance. I provide vow-writing tips, prompts, and feedback (only if you want it!) to help you speak from the heart with confidence.
6. Will you be our celebrant on the day?
It may sound obvious, but with larger celebrant businesses or agencies, you might not meet your actual celebrant until the ceremony. Make sure the person you vibe with is the same person who’ll be standing with you on the day. With Married by Maddi, it’s me, always!
7. How many weddings do you do in a day?
This gives you a good idea of their schedule and availability. I only book one ceremony per day, so you get my full focus and I’m not rushing between venues. That way, if your schedule shifts or you want to pause for a moment of champagne and chill, I'm there for it.
8. Do you travel, and is travel included?
If you’re planning a destination wedding, elopement, or ceremony outside of the Greater Melbourne regions (ie: Dandenong’s, Yarra Valley or even the Peninsulas), be sure to ask if your celebrant is open to travel and whether there are extra costs involved. I love a road trip and am always happy to chat about weddings in regional Victoria, interstate or even international weddings.
9. Can we see reviews or testimonials from other couples?
A great celebrant will have glowing reviews from past couples. These help you get a feel for their vibe, professionalism, and personality. You can check out some of my recent love stories and testimonials right here on my site or on my Instagram @marriedbymaddi.
10. What happens if you can’t make it on the day?
Life happens, so it’s worth knowing your celebrant has a plan B. I have a trusted network of celebrants who could step in just in case (though I haven’t missed a ceremony yet!). Your day is too important to leave to chance.
Final Thoughts…
There are plenty of marriage celebrant questions you could ask, but these 10 will help you find someone who feels right, aligns with your energy, and makes the whole process easy, enjoyable, and completely stress-free.
If you’re searching for a fun, organised, modern marriage celebrant in Melbourne who brings good vibes and great stories, I’d love to chat.
Let’s make your ceremony feel just like you full of love, laughter, and a whole lot of heart.
💌 Get in touch with me here or follow along on Instagram @marriedbymaddi
