Hi, I'm Josh Withers! I'm a full-time professional celebrant helping couples from Melbourne, Geelong, and the Yarra Valley have the best part of their 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.
TL;DR
My Approach
Since 2009 I've created custom ceremonies across 23 countries, but Melbourne has my heart. Whether it's a rooftop in Collingwood or a winery in the Yarra Valley, I honour the gravity of marriage while keeping things real, joyful, and deeply personal. 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 (prices start from $1400), 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.
"Josh was absolutely outstanding, funny, and charismatic. He made us feel incredibly comfortable and it is obvious how passionate he is about his job. We would choose him a million times over to be our celebrant."
Maddy & Cameron
Elopement
"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. Packages from $1400. Let's create something meaningful together.
Real advice for couples who believe marriage is worth doing right.
Most people don’t know this, but I was the celebrant on the very first season of Married at First Sight on Channel Nine. I said yes to reality TV — once — and it turned out to be one of the strangest, most valuable lessons of my celebrant career.
There’s no such thing as a “perfect” wedding. Something will go wrong—probably several things. But none of them have to ruin your day. I spoke with the Daily Mail about the 10 most common wedding disasters and how to deal with them.
Trying to pin down a standard price for a celebrant? It hinges on experience, prep work, and the magic they bring to your day—not an industry-set fee.
Why wedding photo apps don’t work—and what to do instead to actually get the reception photos you’ll want to keep.
My Friends
My friends in the wedding industry that I trust and recommend in Melbourne
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.
Josh Withers