Oh The Place's You'll Go - Wedding Reading
You don't need a wedding reading to make your ceremony awesome, but Dr Seuss doesn't hurt.
Hi, I'm Josh Withers! I'm a full-time professional marriage celebrant, husband, dad, Redeemer Church regular, and Cert IV Christian Ministry graduate. For more than 15 years I've married couples in ways that honour Christ, thrill your guests, and tick every legal box. Prices start at $1800, with packages built around what you actually need — nothing more, nothing less.
Whether you're planning a modern Pentecostal celebration at Riverlife, a barefoot biblical blessing on North Stradbroke, or a classic vibe at Broadway Chapel, I'll make the words (and the moment) unmistakably yours.
TL;DR
My Approach
Since 2009, I've been crafting Christian and civil ceremonies that honour your faith without preaching at your guests. From Pentecostal parties to laid-back biblical blessings — more than 2,100 weddings across 23 countries — each one has been short, joyful, and deeply personal.
I believe we breathe your marriage to life. Every ceremony is written from scratch because your story deserves more than 'insert couple here.' If you'd like scripture or prayer woven in, great — but only if it makes sense for you.
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, so your paperwork is watertight wherever life takes you.
Your ceremony isn’t just for you; it’s for everyone present. I use Bose speakers plus Rode & Sennheiser mics so every line is clear (and your videographer loves me).
On a day packed with emotion I’m the steady, smiling pastor-turned-celebrant who keeps things on track — rain, nerves, or rogue uncles be damned.
No pointless meetings or homework. We’ll catch up as often (or little) as you need — in person, Zoom, or over a flat-white at The Calile.
Around 18 minutes. Long enough to be meaningful; short enough so Nan’s hip doesn’t seize up.
Step 1: Discovery
We'll check your date, choose the right package (paperwork-only, elopement, or full ceremony + MC), and start getting to know each other. This is a relationship, not a transaction, and quotes are tailored — prices from $1800.
Step 2: Legal Preparation
At least one month out we’ll lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage together, either over coffee or video call. Zero jargon; maximum clarity.
Step 3: Ceremony Design
We’ll dig into your story, values, and faith. I’ll shape a ceremony that feels like a chat with your favourite pastor — genuine, joyful, and absolutely about you.
Your Wedding Day
I’ll deliver your ceremony with presence, professionalism, and personality — creating a moment that anchors your entire celebration.
"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
Less 'dearly beloved', more faith, fun, and you. Let's create something meaningful together.
Real advice for couples who believe marriage is worth doing right.
You don't need a wedding reading to make your ceremony awesome, but Dr Seuss doesn't hurt.
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My Friends
My friends in the wedding industry that I trust and recommend in Brisbane
Harley at Bulb Creative has an incredible knack for capturing the wildly romantic moments with dreamy light and soft tones. His blend of editorial and documentary styles results in poetic, timeless images that truly reflect each couple's unique story.
Aaron from Cut a Rug isn't just a wedding DJ—he's a vibe curator who transforms your celebration into an epic dance party. With a knack for reading the room and mixing tracks like a pro, he ensures your big day is anything but ordinary.
We created The Elopement Collective to give couples the freedom to get married in a way that feels effortless, intimate, and deeply personal—without the stress of a big wedding. Britt leads the charge with impeccable taste and heart, and together we craft beautiful, meaningful elopements around the world.
Andy from Evernew Studio is not just a photographer; he's a creative force who captures weddings with his team with a timeless, elegant, and soulful touch. His dedication to storytelling through imagery ensures every couple's unique love story is immortalised beautifully.
Gabbinbar is a historic estate in Toowoomba with 13-acres of manicured grounds and elegant homestead for weddings. With a rich history as the former summer residence of Queensland's Governors, it provides a timeless and picturesque setting for couples to create unforgettable memories. Apart from it's beauty, the thing that sets Gabbinbar apart is its exceptional staff.
George Bowden is an editorial wedding photographer who captures the true essence of couples, documenting the heart of their love story with a calming and detail-oriented approach.
Phil from Heart and Colour is the kind of photographer whose lens captures not just the moment, but the whole heartbeat of a wedding—wherever in the world it happens to be.
Joshua's passion for storytelling through photography is evident in every frame, making him a standout choice for couples seeking authentic and heartfelt wedding memories.