Josh Withers 
How I Create a Wedding Ceremony
At the end of the day, a great ceremony, like a great song, should make you feel something. And that's all I need to know about everything.
Fun wedding celebrant creating the best wedding ceremonies from Tassie to Timbukto.
Hi, I'm Josh Withers! I'm a full-time professional celebrant who believes your ceremony should be the best part of your wedding. No scripts. No fluff. No filler. Just an honest, meaningful ceremony that feels like a big smile — not a weird funeral for your single life.
My philosophy: The marriage ceremony can be, and should be, the best part of your wedding.
My Approach
What makes a Josh Withers ceremony different
Since 2009, I've been creating custom ceremonies that honor the gravity of marriage while keeping things real, joyful, and deeply personal. This isn't a side hustle — it's my life's work.
Words That Matter
I believe we breath your marriage to life. Every ceremony is written from scratch because your story deserves more than 'insert couple here.' No reading from scripts — just authentic conversation that breathes your union into existence.
Legally Sound
The Marriage Act of 1961 gives me the authority to marry people according to Australian law. I also hold legal authority to perform marriages in the USA and Canada. Your ceremony will be both emotionally resonant and legally solid.
Professional Sound Equipment
Your ceremony isn't just a moment for you; it's for everyone present. I use professional Bose speakers and Rode audio gear so everyone hears the words that matter, and your videographer gets pristine audio for your keepsake.
Calm Presence
My role is to be a professionally calm and confident voice on your wedding day. I hold space for smiles, joy, reflection, and truth—adapting to the moment, the people, the place, and the beautiful chaos with authenticity.
Simplified Planning
No unnecessary meetings or homework. We'll connect as many times as needed for you to feel confident that I understand your vision. I prepare deeply but speak naturally, treating your ceremony as a one-off conversation about something sacred.
TED Talk Inspiration
My ceremonies are inspired by TED Talks - concise, impactful, and engaging. At around 18 minutes, they're long enough to be meaningful but short enough to keep everyone present and connected to the moment that matters.
The journey to your wedding
Step 1: Discovery
We'll check your date availability, choose the right package, and begin getting to know each other. This is a relationship, not a transaction.
Step 2: Legal Preparation
At least one month before your wedding, we'll complete the Notice of Intended Marriage together, either in person or via video call. I'll guide you through the legal requirements with clarity and ease.
Step 3: Ceremony Design
Over coffee or video call, we'll explore your story, your values, and your vision. I'll craft a ceremony that reflects who you are as individuals and as a couple, with a clear structure that gives you peace of mind.
Your Wedding Day
I'll deliver your ceremony with presence, professionalism, and personality — creating a moment that anchors your entire celebration.
From couples who took the leap
"First of all, a huge thank you for this unforgettable wedding. We are so glad we had Josh Withers as our Celebrant at Uluru. Before the wedding he was available to us at almost any time of the day or night. He guided us with a lot of patience in far away Germany through all the forms we had to fill out for our wedding. He also took time to address our fears and concerns that come with making such a decision. The wedding day itself was absolutely wonderful."
Bernie & Christiane
Eloped at Uluru
"Josh is a truly wonderful celebrant who will make you feel at ease from your first meeting. Josh has an exceptional way with words and delivered the ceremony of our dreams. It was heart felt and intimate (exactly what we wanted) and I would recommend him to anyone wanting a ceremony that is the opposite of cooker cutter style. His words come straight from the heart (and are not read from off an iPad!) and having him as our celebrant was the perfect intro into marriage. Forever grateful we chose Josh!"
Carissa & Jack
Destination wedding
"Josh wonderful to work with in organizing our special day. Given neither of us had done this before he was helpful, kind and informative, Thanks Josh."
Daniela and Belinda
Hobart wedding at Frogmore Creek
13.2K
Guests
2.8K
Couples
778
Flights
22
Countries
Ready for the best ceremony ever?
Less 'dearly beloved', more *you*. Let's create something meaningful together.
Latest writing
View all posts »Real advice for couples who believe marriage is worth doing right.
Can we exchange vows personally, outside of the ceremony?
More couples are choosing to save their personal vows for a private moment. As a celebrant, I understand the appeal but want to explore what this means for your ceremony.
The Illusion of "Best" in the Wedding Industry
Wedding industry awards claim to crown the "best" celebrant or vendor, but this deep dive explores why excellence in weddings can't be objectively measured. From the psychological peak-end rule to the chemistry between couples and vendors, discover why finding your perfect match matters more than any industry accolade.
How to have a generic wedding
A text from a friend sparked this reflection on what actually creates a memorable wedding day. Spoiler alert, it's not the venue, styling, or even your celebrant.