A CELEBRANT COSTS HOW MUCH?

If you’re curious about the cost of a celebrant and why there’s such a variation, read on!

Let’s get straight to it: wedding celebrants are arguably the most underrated vendors in the wedding world, yet we carry a ton of responsibility! And yes, this might sound a little biased but buckle up—I’m about to give you the full picture.

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What Are You Actually Paying For?

It’s often said that the celebrant is there on the day for 30 mins… And yes while that is true for the ceremony, it’s not just 30 minutes of work. A great celebrant pours 20–25 hours into each couple/wedding. Yep, you read that right.

It’s everything from:

~ Initial Consultations: Getting to know you and your story.

~ Writing: Crafting a unique ceremony that reflects your personalities.

~ Admin: Handling the legal paperwork (a non-negotiable part of the gig).

~ Rehearsals and Travel: Ensuring everything runs smoothly.

~ Performance: Delivering a ceremony that’s equal parts heartfelt and entertaining.

Not only this.

Each celebrant must obtain a Certificate IV in Celebrancy which can take up to 12 months to complete and then be approved by the Attorney General’s Department. In addition to this, we must pay a annual fee to maintain this registration and complete ongoing professional development each year to ensure our knowledge of the law is up to date.

Then there is also running a business; systems, procedures, and admin that comes with it!

It’s a lot. I know!

What Sets Celebrants Apart?

A celebrant isn’t just a legal requirement—they’re the ones who set the tone for your entire day. An experienced celebrant will:

~ Be an amazing writer who can tell your story in a way that feels authentic and personal.

~ Have the performance skills to hold a crowd, create atmosphere, and keep everyone engaged (even Uncle Bob at the back who’s already eyeing the bar).

~Bring years of experience to handle any situation calmly and professionally.

Public speaking is one of the most feared activities out there, yet celebrants do it with style, humour, and confidence every single time.

But What About Registry Office Weddings?

If all you need is the legal paperwork, you can head to the Registry Office for around $500–$700. It’s quick, simple, and completely impersonal. No judgment here—if that’s all you’re after, it’s a perfectly valid option.

But if you want a ceremony that feels like you, one that’s filled with love, laughter, and maybe a happy tear or two, you’ll need to invest a little more.

SO….. here it is… The Reality of Celebrant Costs

Not all celebrants are created equal. Differences in price usually come down to experience, demand, and the level of service offered. If one celebrant quotes $1,000 and another quotes $2,000, it’s not because the latter is trying to rip you off—it’s because they’re offering a completely different experience. In Melbourne, celebrants charge anywhere from $1,000 to over $2,500, depending on their experience, demand, and the level of personalisation they offer.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

$600-$1400: Generally, this is where newer celebrants or those still building their reputation sit. Or even side hustle celebrants, who do it on the side of a full time gig.

$1,700–$2,500+: This is the premium tier—experienced celebrants who know how to create magic. These are the storytellers, performers, and legal experts who’ll craft a ceremony that leaves everyone talking. We’ve dealt with family dramas, small weddings, big, fat weddings, travelled far and wide, met heaps of industry vendors/suppliers and we just know how to smash the day.

Before you compare quotes, ask yourself:

~ Was that celebrant recommended by your other vendors? If yes, then there is a reason why!

~ Do you want minimal contact or a celebrant who takes the time to truly get to know you?

~ Do you value a basic ceremony or one that’s completely personalised and unforgettable?

~ Are you looking for someone who’s just “good enough” or someone who’ll blow your guests away?

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Here’s the thing: a celebrant is the ONLY vendor you need to get married. Literally. We are the legal requirement. But further to this, we’re also the one who’ll set the tone for the rest of the day. A phenomenal ceremony can make your wedding feel joyful, intimate, and full of energy. When your guests leave raving about how incredible the ceremony was, you’ll clearly see the value . But if you’ve never experienced a truly great celebrant, it can be hard to understand just how important they are.

So, when you’re budgeting for your wedding, think about what kind of experience you want. If you’re spending thousands on florals or a photographer, it makes sense to allocate a fair amount to the person who’s responsible for making it all official—and unforgettable.

At the end of the day, it’s your call. If you’re happy with something straightforward and simple, the budget-friendly option might work for you. But if you’re after a ceremony that’s fun, emotional, and totally “you,” then investing in a skilled, experienced celebrant is worth every cent.

After all, it’s not just a ceremony—it’s the start of your forever.

Cover photo: Love By Shae