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 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, delivered with Gold Coast chill and Tasmanian reliability.
TL;DR
My Approach
Since 2009 I've been creating custom ceremonies that honour the gravity of marriage while keeping things real, joyful, and deeply personal. Whether you're barefoot at Burleigh, perched atop Tamborine Mountain, or hosting a black-tie banquet at The Star, this isn't a side hustle — it's my life's work.
I believe we breathe 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
"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 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.
If you think a wedding ceremony needs to go for an hour, this one’s for you. I'm taking a leaf out of TED's book.
Wedding vows aren’t “that one tradition that just won’t go away” — they’re the entire point. Here’s why tradition isn’t the enemy, and why we need better stories, not fewer rituals.
A rulebook for the weirdos, romantics, and professionals who believe the ceremony should be the best part of the wedding
My Friends
My friends in the wedding industry that I trust and recommend on the Gold Coast
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.
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.
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.