A day in the life
So…what do you do again?
A Day in the Life of a Celebrant: Wedding Day Edition (3pm Ceremony)
There’s something magical about waking up on a wedding day knowing I’m about to help two people celebrate one of life’s most meaningful moments. As a celebrant, no two days are ever the same - but here’s a glimpse into what a typical wedding day looks like (+ what you can expect from me) when the ceremony kicks off at 3pm.
Although some celebrants will do 2 (or more) weddings in a day, I commit myself to just one per day. This means I can make myself available to you for any last-minute queries up until 9pm the day before + from 6am on your special day.
☀️ 7:00am – Rise and Rituals
I start the day with a green tea. In summer, I sit on our front deck + enjoy the gentle calls of the birds waking up, people going for an early walk + the ebb + flow of the tide, winter is usually parked in my comfy chair looking out at the same scene.
Even though I’ve rehearsed it, I rehearse the ceremony again, I like to sit with the words one last time - making sure every line still feels fresh, authentic + tailored to the couple I will be marrying in the afternoon. I check the weather, confirm my outfit (something polished but comfortable), grab my “Wedding Day Go Bag” - bottle of water, lip balm, peppermints, tissues, wedding folder + a backup pen (or 2…!)
📞 10:00am – Final Touchpoints
I send a quick text to the couple; just a warm “thinking of you” message to let them know I’m here + excited + wishing them well for their day of preparation. I also touch base with the venue coordinator to confirm timing, layout + my ETA. If I’m also acting as MC, I double-check the run sheet + any special announcements.
🚗 2:00pm – Travel + Arrival
I aim to arrive at the venue between 30-60mins prior to the ceremony. That gives me time to settle in, meet the photographer +/or videographer, scope out the ceremony space + make sure I know where the emergency exits + assembly points are. I check the sound system, walk through the aisle setup, + make sure the signing table is positioned for both aesthetics + practicality (hello, flattering angles and good lighting!).
💬 2:15pm – Guest Greetings + Calm Energy
As guests begin to arrive, I’m there with a warm smile + a calming presence. I answer any last-minute questions + keep an eye out for the groom, nervous best man or teary-eyed parent who might need a gentle word. I ensure the wedding licence + pen are set up on the signing table + make sure the boys don’t have anything in the front pockets of their trousers or jackets, tuck in any clothing tags. If time permits, I sometimes find a quiet spot to have one final read through of the ceremony.
💍 3:00pm – Ceremony Time
This is the moment. The walk-in music begins, one partner turns to watch the other enter, guests rise to their feet + the attendants start down the aisle.
Once everyone is settled at the top of the aisle, the couple steps forward, + I begin the ceremony we’ve crafted together. Whether it’s heartfelt vows, a surprise element or tradition (sand ceremony or candle lighting, anyone?), or a simple “I do,” my role is to hold space for love, laughter + connection.
📜 3:30pm – Signing + Celebrations
After the vows and rings, we move to the signing table. I pre-prepare all the documentation, so all people need to do is check their details + sign on the dotted line on both copies of the wedding licence.
I guide the couple + their witnesses through the legal bits with ease + a touch of ceremony. Then it’s hugs, cheers, and a joyful exit as they head off to celebrate with their loved ones.
🌅 4:00pm – Pack Down + Reflection
Once the ceremony wraps, I quietly pack up, say my goodbyes, + take a moment to reflect. As soon as I get home, I submit the paperwork to the Dept of Internal Affairs (cc’ing you in so you can see it’s done). Every wedding is a privilege, and I never take for granted the trust couples place in me to help shape such a personal milestone.
Being a celebrant isn’t just about reading words - it’s about weaving stories, calming nerves, and creating moments that linger long after the last dance. Whether it’s a beach elopement or a surprise ceremony in a whisky bar, I’m here to make sure your day feels exactly like you.
Want to know more about how I work or start planning your own ceremony? Let’s talk.