Josh Withers 
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.
Gold Coast Christian wedding celebrant creating faith-filled, unforgettable ceremonies from Burleigh to Bali.
Hi, I'm Josh Withers! Husband, dad, Redeemer Church regular, Cert IV Christian Ministry graduate, and the celebrant who thinks your ceremony should be the highlight — not the warm-up act. For more than 15 years I've married couples in ways that honour Christ, thrill your guests, and tick every legal box. Packages start at $1800 and are tailored so you only pay for what you need.
Whether it's a modern Pentecostal celebration at Elevation Church, a barefoot biblical blessing on Currumbin's sand, or a classic Catholic vibe at St Vincent's Southport, I'll make the words (and the moment) unmistakably yours.
TL;DR
What kind of celebrant is Josh?
No Boring Weddings!If you’re looking for something heartfelt, real, and unforgettable — without the fluff, fake laughs, or recycled ceremony scripts — you’ve found your guy.
For People Who Value How Things FeelThe wedding ceremony should feel better than it looks. It’s not just something to “get through” before drinks.
No Templates. No Scripts. No Cringe.Every ceremony is created fresh — no recycled paragraphs, no weird stories, and definitely no pretending Josh knows you better than your besties.
Good Vibes, Real TalkJosh is approachable, grounded, and refreshingly direct. You won’t get vague wedding jargon or airy waffle — just clear communication, quick replies, and genuine enthusiasm.
Ideal for High-Agency CouplesJosh works best with couples who value their time, want things done properly, and are curating a day that actually reflects them — not just ticking boxes.
My Approach
What makes a Josh Withers Christian ceremony different
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 beachfront blessings — over 2,100 weddings in 23 countries — each one is short, joyful, and deeply personal.
Words That Matter
Every ceremony is written from scratch because your story deserves more than 'insert couple here.' Scripture and prayer are optional extras, not mandatory fillers.
Legally Sound
Authorised under the Marriage Act 1961 in Australia (plus licensed in the USA & Canada), so your paperwork is airtight wherever life takes you.
Professional Sound Equipment
Your ceremony isn't just for you; it's for everyone present. Bose speakers and Rode & Sennheiser mics ensure every line lands — and your videographer gets clean audio.
Calm Presence
I'm the steady, smiling pastor-turned-celebrant who keeps things on track — rain, nerves, or rogue uncles be damned.
Simplified Planning
No pointless meetings. We'll chat as often (or as little) as you need — over Zoom or a flat white at Paradox Coffee Roasters in Surfers.
TED-Talk Timing
Around 18 minutes. Long enough to be meaningful; short enough so Nan’s hip doesn’t seize up.
The journey to your wedding
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. Quotes are tailored — prices from $1800.
Step 2: Legal Preparation
A month out we lodge the 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 — anchoring the celebration and setting the tone for the party.
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
14.4K
Guests
2.9K
Couples
828
Flights
24
Countries
Ready for the best ceremony ever?
Less 'dearly beloved', more faith, fun, and you. Let's create something meaningful together.
Latest blog posts
View all posts »Real advice for couples who believe marriage is worth doing right.
I think 18 minutes is the perfect wedding ceremony length
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.
People Like Us Do Things Like This
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.
How to Be a Celebrant - The 22 Rules
A rulebook for the weirdos, romantics, and professionals who believe the ceremony should be the best part of the wedding
My Friends
Gold Coast Wedding Vendors
My friends in the wedding industry that I trust and recommend on the Coast
Bulb Creative
Photographer
Gold Coast, 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.
Evernew Studio
Photography, Videography
Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast
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 Mikhaiel
Photographer
Brisbane, Gold Coast, Australia
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.
