What Questions Should I Ask a Marriage Celebrant? (The Essential Checklist)

If you’re knee-deep in wedding planning and starting to check out celebrants, you’ve probably asked yourself: “How can I really know if this person is the right fit for us?”

It’s the right question, but it’s hard to answer. Your celebrant isn’t just ticking legal boxes — they’re the voice guiding one of the most emotional moments of your life. The wrong one can feel stiff or generic; the right one makes everything feel warm, personal, and memorable for all the right reasons.

Here’s the essential checklist of questions you should ask any Perth marriage celebrant before booking. These come straight from what real couples ask me (and what I wish every couple asked upfront).

1. Are you available on our wedding date, and how far in advance should we book?

You’ll probably find this out as part of your initial enquiry. Perth’s peak seasons (spring & summer weekends) book out fast. It’s worth finding the right celebrant before you’ve locked in your date and getting an idea of their general calendar. Find out how many ceremonies they do per day/weekend — multiple bookings in one day may be a sign of a competent and in-demand celebrant, but you want to be sure they won’t be rushed.

2. How long have you been a registered celebrant, and how many weddings have you done?

Experience matters for smooth legal handling and confident delivery. Look for someone with years in the game (I’ve got 7+ as a celebrant plus 15+ in events overall). Check the official AG’s register online to confirm they’re legit.

3. What’s your style and how do you personalise ceremonies?

Do they lean traditional, modern, humorous, heartfelt, or a mix? Ask for example scripts, and meet in person to get a feel for how they talk. The best ones will share how they weave in your story, avoid clichés, and make it all about you two.

4. What’s included in your fee, and are there any extras?

Get the full breakdown: meetings, script writing, vow help, rehearsal, PA/mic setup, background music, legal paperwork lodgement, travel (especially if you’re in regional WA). Ask about travel surcharges if their website or quote doesn’t make it clear.

5. Do you offer a rehearsal, and how does that work?

Many couples want one for timing and nerves. Ask if it’s included, how long it runs, and if they bring gear (mic, music). It’s a great chance to get the details right, but it also might not be necessary for your ceremony.

6. What happens if you’re unwell or unavailable on the day?

Everyone has a Plan B (or C). Good celebrants have trusted backups they’d refer you to — ask to see who, and if they coordinate handover seamlessly.

7. How do you handle music and sound during the ceremony?

Will they cue entrance/walking-out songs? Do they provide a portable PA? (Crucial for outdoor Perth spots like Kings Park or beaches.) If you’re dreaming of a smooth transition to reception vibes, this is key. Many celebrants ‘don’t do’ music, or even supply their own sound gear, so make sure you know.

8. Can we see recent reviews or testimonials from couples?

Real feedback tells the story — look for comments on warmth, personality, and how the day flowed. Check for Google reviews - an absence of good reviews needs an explanation!

9. What do we have to do on our end?

Any celebrant telling your unique love story can’t do it without information from you guys, so make sure your celebrant gives you the rundown on how they get that info.

10. What makes your ceremonies stand out from others?

This open one reveals their passion. Listen for genuine answers about storytelling, guest engagement, or blending heasrtfelt sentiment with fun and humour.

These questions aren’t just checkboxes — they help you find someone who gets your vibe and makes your Perth wedding feel intimate, unique, and unforgettable.

Ready to chat? Hit up the contact page — we’ll meet and run through these together. No pressure, just talking about your day.