FAQ: Celebrant Services

What is a NZ Celebrant?

 

In New Zealand, a registered celebrant is a person who performs formal and legal ceremonies, and whilst commonly seen at weddings or civil unions, they can also conduct other non legal services like renewal of vows, coming of age, baby naming, retirements and funeral or life celebrations.​

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When do I need to book a celebrant?

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The earlier the better! Dates within the ‘wedding season’ (November – March) can book up quickly.

 

However, if you have a short time frame please still reach out. I may be available and if not, I can recommend some other celebrants you can try.

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What does the process look like?

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If you’ve read through my website and thought, “This sounds like us!”, send me a message. I’ll check my calendar - and, hopefully, your date is free!

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We’ll start with a completely obligation-free meeting. This is where we’ll have a relaxed chat about your ceremony, I’ll talk you through the process, and you can see if I’m the right celebrant for you.

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If you think I’m right for you, we’ll lock in your date, and then we’ll spend some time so I can really get to know you. This is what helps me to create a ceremony you’ll love. My top priority is ensuring you feel heard and supported.

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And of course, I’ll be here to answer any questions along the way.

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Do you charge a booking fee?

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Yes - for most ceremonies, a non-refundable deposit of $250 is required to secure your date with the remaining balance due at least two weeks prior to the ceremony or by arrangement.

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For Registry ceremonies, no booking fee is required.

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Once your booking fee is paid, your date is officially saved in my calendar. This booking fee reflects both my commitment to reserve your date and the work that begins behind the scenes from the moment you engage my services.

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Do you travel?

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Absolutely - although I am based in the Manawatu, I am really happy to travel.

Please note: the pricing I provide is for ceremonies within the Manawatu. Ceremonies further afield may incur a travel charge, which is calculated per KM based on the current IRD rate. If your ceremony is located more than 1 hour by car, additional travel and/or accommodation may be required and will be quoted to you before booking.

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What happens if we need to change the date or cancel?

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I totally get that life can throw unexpected challenges your way! If you need to reschedule due to circumstances beyond your control, I’ll do my best to accommodate the change. If I’m unavailable on the new date, I’d be happy to help you find another amazing officiant to take my place. If you choose to cancel, please note that the booking fee is non-refundable.

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What happens if you are unwell or have an accident on the day?

In the unlikely event that I am unable to officiate, I will ensure a trusted celebrant steps in to perform the ceremony we have created together.

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Can other people be included in our ceremony?

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Your ceremony* can absolutely include personal touches - whether that’s a song, a reading, your much-loved dog as a ring bearer, or something else symbolic.

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That said, wedding and civil union ceremonies must be conducted by a registered celebrant to meet the legal requirements. As a registered independent celebrant, I’ll ensure everything is completed correctly and seamlessly.

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* Please note personal touches are not allowed for Registry Ceremonies, as per the rules set by the Department of Internal Affairs.