Josh Withers You're not planning a performance. You're getting married.
A wedding celebrant who actually gets it — Josh Withers
I'm a husband, a dad, a full-time celebrant, and a straight-talking guy who believes weddings should feel like you — not like a play you're starring in.
Since 2009 ...
What I do and why I do it
The short version: I care about you, your relationship, and your wedding day not being a weird copy-paste ceremony that feels like a performance. I help you create a ceremony that reflects who you really are, where you're going, and why this day matters.
Destination & local weddings
I’m based in Tasmania’s Huon Valley but 90% of my work is interstate or overseas. Whether you're eloping in Iceland or marrying in Melbourne, I work with couples who want their ceremony to actually mean something — not just tick boxes.
Celebrant for people who don’t like celebrants
There’s a reason I’m not for everyone. I don’t do fluff, I don’t fake laughs, I don’t read poems unless you ask me to. I work best with couples who want a ceremony that’s honest, fun, and real. If you want ‘just the legal stuff’ — I’m probably not your guy.
Straight-talking, but heartfelt
Yes, I’ve won awards. Yes, I’ve been on TV. But more importantly: I’m there to guide you through a really important moment in your life with clarity, warmth, and full presence. And when it’s time for your first kiss, I’m already out of the shot.
This isn’t a side hustle
Full-time celebrant. No templates. No scripts. No BS.
Weddings that sound like you
I’m not anti-tradition. I’m anti “doing things just because it’s what everyone else does.”18-minute ceremonies
Short enough to hold attention, long enough to say something meaningful. Like a good TED Talk, your ceremony will be all substance, no filler.
Not your life story
Your guests already know your love story. My job is to create a moment that helps them understand why your marriage matters and what it means going forward.
Tailored for you
No recycled ceremony scripts. I write every ceremony with fresh eyes and ears based on our conversations and your values.
Travel anywhere
I travel for weddings across Australia and the world. Whether you’re getting married in Tasmania, Tokyo or Tulum, I can make it legally binding — and meaningful.
Handle the paperwork
I’m authorised to solemnise marriages under Australian law, so even if your wedding is overseas, I can complete all the legal stuff here and save you the international admin headache.
All eyes on you
I only do one wedding per day. You'll have my full attention — no distractions, no rushing off to another gig.
Love this job
I genuinely love marrying people. I’ve been doing it for over 15 years, and it still brings me joy. That shows up in my work.
Wedding MC available
Want a professional voice to keep the whole day moving? I can also MC your reception — with charm, clarity, and a killer run sheet.
Content creation support
Want quick content to share after your ceremony? I shoot casual behind-the-scenes videos and clips perfect for socials.
Need music help?
Ex-radio guy here. Happy to help pick songs that hit the right tone — especially if you’re stuck on aisle music.
Celebrant to the celebrants
Through the Celebrant Institute, I coach and mentor over 10,000 celebrants across Australia, Europe, the USA and Canada. I'm nerdy about marriage law so you don't have to be.
How it works
FAQs
Still got questions? Here’s what couples usually ask.
How far in advance should we book?
Book when you're ready, but the earlier the better if you want your date locked in. I typically book out 6–12 months in advance, especially on Saturdays and for popular elopement destinations.
What’s the legal process?
You’ll complete a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) form at least one month before the wedding. I’ll guide you through the paperwork and identity checks. On the day, you’ll sign certificates with two witnesses. After that, you’re legally hitched.
Do we need to write vows?
It’s up to you. Legally, you need to say one specific sentence, but everything else is optional. I encourage personal vows — I’ll help if you want coaching or guidance.
What if it rains?
We’ll have a backup plan, and I’ll coordinate with your venue and team. Wet weather is just another chapter in your story — and sometimes it makes the day more memorable.
How long is the ceremony?
Around 18 minutes. Long enough to feel substantial, short enough to keep everyone engaged. You won't need chairs for your guests unless you really want them.
What makes you different?
I don’t read love stories or follow scripts. I create a moment that reflects who you are and why this matters. If you want a wedding that sounds like you, not like a Hallmark movie, we’ll probably work well together.
