Why Celebrants Charge What They Do: Wedding Pricing Explained

When you are deep in wedding planning mode and every dollar counts, it is totally valid to ask, “Why do celebrants cost that much?” Especially when it might seem like they are just talking for 20 minutes on the day.

But here is the truth. Your celebrant is doing far more than reading a script and asking if you take each other in marriage.

A professional celebrant is your legal guide. Your storyteller. Your logistics wrangler. The calm in the chaos. They are there to make your ceremony feel like you and to make sure it is all done properly.

Let’s pull back the curtain on what goes into a celebrant’s fee.

What’s Included in a Celebrant Package

Here is what is usually covered when you book a civil celebrant in WA:

• Initial catch-up and communication from the start

• Lodgement of all legal paperwork, including the Notice of Intended Marriage

• Guidance on vows, readings, and ceremony structure

• Help including family or friends in the ceremony

• A fully personalised script, tailored to your story

• Access to PA systems, vow cards, signing tables and more

• Planning calls or rehearsals, depending on the celebrant

• Arrival early on the day to set up and coordinate

• Official registration of your marriage with Births, Deaths and Marriages

• Travel and accommodation where applicable

Most celebrants in WA charge somewhere between $800 and $1,500. Pricing varies based on experience, inclusions, and travel time.

What You See vs What They Actually Do

Yes, your celebrant might only speak for 20 or 30 minutes on the day. But behind the scenes? They are putting in 10 to 15 hours of work.

That includes:

• Admin

• Research

• Script writing

• Legal checks

• Vendor calls

• Travel time

• Tech setup

• & Support when your nerves hit

Unlike many other vendors, celebrants have legal responsibilities. If something is missed or said incorrectly, your marriage might not be valid. No pressure, right?

What You’re Paying For

Like your photographer, florist, or stylist, celebrants invest in:

* Ongoing training and legal knowledge

* Professional insurance

* Equipment and tech upgrades

* Booking systems and client portals

* Admin tools to stay organised

A good celebrant also brings the vibe. The warmth. The organisation. And the sense of safety that helps you both feel present and relaxed.

What to Ask When Comparing Celebrants.

If you are getting quotes or comparing packages, ask:

• Is all the legal stuff included?

• Do they offer help writing the ceremony or vows?

• How much time will they spend getting to know you?

• Will there be a rehearsal or planning call?

• Are travel costs included or extra?

• Do they feel like a good fit for your day?

If someone seems really cheap, it is worth asking what is left out. A quality celebrant will always be transparent and happy to explain their process.

Final Word

Celebrants do not just show up and read from a script. We create, plan, support, and register your marriage legally. We work with your vendors and hold space for all the big feelings.

You are paying for someone who understands what this moment means. Someone who will guide you from “let’s do this” all the way to “you are now married.”

Want a celebrant who brings the good vibes, the legal know how and a personalised ceremony you will actually remember?
Get in touch. I am Bunbury based and travel all over WA for weddings filled with love, laughter, and a little bit of chaos, the good kind.

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