Professional celebrants fees can vary. Some charge as low as $500 and some as high as $2000 to plan, craft and deliver a custom wedding ceremony – it really depends on what you want. If you look hard enough, you may even find some that charge less and some that charge more. Whilst you may think the cost of a celebrant is high, there are many things that need to be taken into consideration when setting fees. Let’s examine what is involved in this process.
As a celebrant I am a professional writer, public speaker and small business owner with the training, knowledge and experience to ensure my clients receive the best possible service. I am continually reading, researching and undertaking training to ensure my skills remain relevant and up to date.
When you engage my services as a celebrant, many hours are spent writing your personalised ceremony, tweaking this until you are happy with the final product. I communicate with you via meetings, zoom, phone and email and I organise and lead your rehearsal. I provide you with materials to assist in vow writing and choice of readings and inclusions. I provide, prepare and lodge all legal documentation to register your ceremony.
On the day of your ceremony I arrive early to ensure everything is set up. I liaise with venue coordinators, photographers, videographers, musicians and family members to ensure everything is running according to plan. I run the ceremony, adapting to any unexpected issues that may arise, ensuring your day is everything you want it to be.
As a small business owner, there are also overheads and costs that need to be considered: business registration fees, celebrancy registration fees, professional indemnity and liability insurances, motor vehicle running expenses, stationery supplies, legal documentation purchases, printing costs, phone, internet and website costs, professional development, marketing and advertising, PA equipment, association fees and professional wardrobe. I need to cover the costs of running my business whilst ensuring I am remunerated appropriately for my time and professional skills and that I keep fees reasonable for my clients.
A professional celebrant is worth investing in to ensure your special day is one you will remember. In the words of Red Adair, "If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait til you hire an amateur”.