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Frequently Asked Questions

And the answers, of course!

How long in advance should I book?

The earlier the better!   The Summer season (Dec-March) is a busy time for weddings, so it does pay to book well in advance to secure your wedding date.  Typically, couples are booking me between 12-8 months prior to their wedding day. But, that's not to say I don't take (and get) last minute bookings, but it just comes down to availability.

What does a 'Meet & Greet' involve?

The meet and greet is the initial 'get to know' each other, and is often done prior to booking my services. This is where you can get a feel for who I am and the style of ceremony I can offer.  I will talk you through my various package options, and you can of course, ask as many questions as you want.   Following this, you will be well informed to decide if I am the right celebrant for you.

What do you charge

My fees vary depending on which package you choose.  I have four package options, which you can view here.  As well as my standard pricing, I also offer off-peak rates for winter and mid-week weddings, so the date/day of your wedding will affect the price too.  Get in touch to request a complimentary information pack,which outlines packages, inclusions and pricing.

Do you travel outside of Taupo?

Yes absolutely, I love a good roadie!  I have officiated at weddings all over the country and are more than happy to travel to your location.    There will be a travel charge ($1 per KM) on top of the package price, and there may also be an overnight charge, if it is a more cost effective option for me to stay overnight after the rehearsal.  Obviously, this is on a case by case basis, dependent on the location.  Get in touch for a personalised quotation.

What is involved at a 'Rehearsal'?

This is a 'practice run' of the big day.  I don't got over the wording (as I keep that special for your wedding day), but we go through the layout, where we will all stand, and what will be happening when.  I give you and your bridal party a few tips and pointers and we all just have a good run through.  We can practice the walk in and the walk out - and do this to the music of your choice, to check timings etc.  We will also touch on your plan B, the wet weather option, and of course, hope we don't need it!   I strongly recommend a rehearsal, as it helps to put your mind at ease come wedding day.

I obviously need the bride and groom present, and as much of the bridal party as possible.  It is always helpful if the person walking the bride down the aisle can be there, and any children who have a part to play in the processional.  And as an added bonus, it is great to have the person in charge of the music present, if possible.  

The rehearsal is typically done 1-2 days before the wedding, as mutually agreed, at the ceremony location.

What does a 'Consultation' involve?

This is where we get into the 'nitty gritty'! I will discover what you want (and don't want) from your ceremony, including any people who need a special mention, and guests you wish to involve in your ceremony.  I want to know all the details including the background on you two as a couple, your bridal party and all the specifics surrounding your day.   Then, I will head into the ceremony structure; how it all works and whats involved.  I will talk you through wording options, which will then be sent to you after our meeting. Again, it is an opportunity for you to ask more questions, and ensure you are happy with the ceremony process and how it all works.  I will also talk you through the legal documentation and ensure you have that underway (or a ready to do so).

The pre-wedding consultation typically happens around 3-6 months before your wedding date, but of course can be done earlier (or later) to suit.

Do your ceremonies include religious aspects?

Typically not.  I don't have a religious background, and as my ceremonies reflect my personality, this comes across in the content. However, it is your ceremony, not mine, and if you would like to include some religious aspects, I am absolutely happy to do so.  If you are wanting a strongly religious ceremony, I am happy to point you in the right direction of a celebrant who might be better suited to your needs.

What are your payment terms?

Upon confirmation, I require a 50% non-refundable deposit payment, which secures my services for your wedding date.   The balance is due 7 days prior to your wedding.

What are the legal requirements to get married?

The 'legal requirements' are really quite straight forward.  You need to apply for a marriage license, which you can do online at Births Deaths and Marriages. You need to complete the online form, pay the fee, and this gets sent away for processing, which takes around 3 working days.  You will then be emailed two copies of 'Particulars of Marriage' which is the documentation we sign on the day.  One copy is for you to keep, and the other, I send away to formerly lodge your marriage.

To apply online you will need details about:

  • yourself

  • at least one of your parents

  • your partners details

  • at least one of your partner’s parents’ details.

  • your celebrant name

  • your ceremony address

  • an alternative ceremony address (wet weather option)


An unsigned license expires after 3 months, so you cannot apply any earlier than this.   I will give you advice on this process and remind you as to when it is time to apply.

How do I go about changing my last name?

There is no additional paperwork to sign which allows you to change your maiden name to your married name.  Once you are married, you can decide to go by whichever surname you wish.  The signed 'particulars of marriage' are your proof of your marriage, and allows you to change your last name as required.   It does take some time, to switch over all your important documents (passport, bank cards, drivers license) and change all your account names - but I suggest just doing this bit by bit.  Of course, your name change on facebook is nice and easy, so you can do that pretty quickly following the big day should you wish :)    


Many institutions will require a physical 'marriage certificate' in addition to the 'particulars of marriage' as additional proof of your marriage.  You can apply for this online at the same time you apply for the marriage license, or you can request this at a later date.

I’ll make sure your ceremony is one you will absolutely treasure for a lifetime.
For any further questions, please give me a call or email me.

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