Why I Might Be The Right Celebrant For Your Wedding Day

When it comes to choosing a celebrant, you want someone who gets you, who brings genuine warmth to your day, and who can strike that perfect balance between heartfelt and fun. If you’re wondering if I’m the right fit, here’s a little insight into what I bring to your ceremony.

1. I’m not new to a crowd (or a microphone)

With over ten years of teaching experience, I’ve learned how to project my voice (yes, even over 100+ Year 10 students in a noisy auditorium) but more importantly, I know how to connect with people. In fact I’ll go one further and tell you that I love to connect with people. It’s one of my favourite things to do. My goal is to make you and your guests feel relaxed, welcomed and completely comfortable. I also have a background in teaching meditation and mindfulness, so if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed on the day or in the lead up, we can take a moment. A little pause to take in the surroundings can go a long way with nerves.

2. You’ll actually enjoy our meetings

There’s no awkward small talk or checking the clock when we chat. I bring energy, humour and a down-to-earth vibe to every meeting. I want you and your partner to walk away feeling excited, not overwhelmed. It’ll be like talking to a friend about your day and working together to create something you both have dreamed up. The meetings before your big day are important because on the ceremony day you’ll feel comfortable with me as your celebrant standing beside the two of you and I’ll know the little things that will make your day truly special.

3. I’m an Aries which means I get things DONE

Whether or not you’re into astrology, I’m the kind of person who finishes tomorrow’s to-do list today. My family always joke that I’m the organiser of the family, the one who prepares for Christmas lunch 8 months in advance. I’m organised, prepared, and thrive on making sure everything runs smoothly. I’m also passionate about making people happy, that’s a big part of who I am. I am organised so you don’t have to be. I’ll make sure our timeline runs smoothly both in the lead up to and on your big day (don’t worry, I’ll make flexible adjustments if we need to). I’ll tell you that your script will be sorted at least a month in advance, yet it will be done WAY before that. All your documents will be ready to sign and they’ll be sent off to BDM likely on the night of your ceremony because that is just who I am. You can sit back and enjoy your wedding prep as well as your big day and I’ll take care of the rest.

4. I actually love what I do (and I don’t have to do it)

This isn’t just a job for me. I have a career in teaching, being a celebrant is something I choose to do because I genuinely love it. I love love. I care about your story. And I feel truly honoured every time a couple chooses me to be part of their day. I will put my heart into your ceremony because I am passionate about making your day exactly as you want it. It wont be stale and boring because I do the same thing every weekend. It will be fun and authentic, because I get to choose when I put my celebrant hat on and when I can take it off to be with my family.

Whether your wedding is big, small, traditional or totally out-of-the-box, I’d love to be the celebrant that helps bring your vision to life. If you think we might click, let’s have a chat.

With Love,

Rachael

Registered Marriage Celebrant

Why I Became a Celebrant – From Classroom to “I Do!”

If you’d told me 10 years ago that I’d one day be standing at the front of wedding ceremonies with tissues in one hand and a microphone in the other, I probably would’ve laughed (while marking assignments and sipping cold coffee). But life has a funny way of nudging us exactly where we’re meant to be.

I have been a high school teacher for a decade and honestly, I love it. The chaos, the creativity and the kids who kept me on my toes. Teaching gave me something invaluable: the ability to engage an audience, think on my feet, tell a good story, and, let’s be honest, the ultimate skill in crowd control (if you can handle 30 energetic students, you can definitely handle a wedding party and a few unruly but hilarious groomsmen!).

I was lucky enough to find my best friend, fall in love and marry him. And when I got married in 2016, it something sparked within me. During that wedding planning process, I absolutely fell in love with planning our big day. Not just picking flowers and choosing our menu (though, I’ll be real and say we definitely did love that). What I really fell for was the heart of it all: creating a day that reflects two people, their story, their love, and their quirks. I found myself obsessing over ceremony ideas, writing our vows, and dreaming up ways to make our guests laugh, cry, and cheer. That’s when the seed was planted.

I started thinking: What if I could do this for other people? What if I could make their day as special and memorable as ours?

Fast forward a few years, a few kids, a little training, and a whole lot of excitement and here I am: a celebrant, doing what I love.

What lights me up most is listening to people’s stories. I genuinely love hearing how couples met, the awkward first dates, the shared dreams, the little moments that became big ones. No two couples are the same, and no two ceremonies should be either.

Being a celebrant allows me to blend everything I’ve learned as a teacher, storytelling, connection, confidence, and yes, occasionally shushing a chatty guest with my love for love. Whether it’s a wedding, naming ceremony, vow renewal, or something completely unique, I feel incredibly lucky to stand beside people during life’s most meaningful moments.

So that’s my story. From whiteboards to wedding aisles, lesson plans to love stories and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you’re looking for a celebrant who can wrangle a crowd, make your guests laugh, and bring your story to life with warmth, fun, and a touch of sparkle, I’m your person.

Get in contact with me to book in your 2026 ceremony. Let’s make some magic together. ✨

With Love,

Rachael

Registered Marriage Celebrant

A Simple Guide For Writing Your Own Vows

If you’re planning a wedding in Perth, one of the most personal and memorable parts of your ceremony will be your wedding vows. Writing your own vows lets you express your unique love story and promises in your own words making the moment even more special.

But if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed about how to start or what to say, don’t worry! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you write heartfelt vows that will resonate with your partner and your guests.

1. Reflect on Your Relationship

Start by thinking about your journey as a couple. What moments stand out? What qualities do you love most about your partner? Jot down memories, feelings, and shared dreams that feel meaningful to you both. I have created a little questionnaire for my couples to use when writing their own vows that helps them get started with the reflection process.

2. Decide on the Tone

Do you want your vows to be romantic, funny, poetic, or a mix of all three? Your vows should reflect your personality and relationship. Let your personality and the nature of your relationship shine through. Write as if you are talking to your partner one on one. Add your touch of personality to your vows. There is no one way to go about them!

3. Make Promises That Matter

The heart of wedding vows is often the promises you make to each other. Think about what you want to commit to whether it’s supporting each other through thick and thin, always being honest, or sharing your dreams for the future. Or make a simple promise of just loving each other through all the seasons life presents. Whatever you want to promise, make it authentically you and speak from the heart.

4. Keep It Concise and Clear

Aim for about 1-2 minutes when reading your vows aloud. That’s roughly 150-200 words. There is no strict rule on this and when writing, you’ll feel what length is right for you.

5. Write, Rewrite, and Practice

Don’t be afraid to rewrite your vows a few times until they feel just right. Practice reading them out loud it helps with nerves and lets you find the perfect flow and tone.

Make sure to space your vows out for ease of reading on the day and as a way to pause when needed. Wedding day jitters and excitement mean we often speak faster on the day so trying to practice and allow space for pauses will help in keeping your pace slow, steady and clear.

6. Keep It a Surprise (Optional)

Some couples like to keep their vows a surprise for the ceremony, while others share them in advance. Decide what feels right for you and your partner. There is no one right way.

Why Write Your Own Vows for Your Wedding?

Personal vows create an intimate, authentic moment during your wedding ceremony that reflects your unique love story. As your Perth & South West marriage celebrant, I’m here to help you craft vows that truly resonate, ensuring your ceremony is memorable and meaningful.

If writing your own vows just isn’t your thing, that’s totally fine too! I have plenty of pre written vows to choose from or mix and match. Or, if you want to keep things super simple, you can just stick to the legal vows. Your wedding is yours to craft, no two ceremonies are exactly the same and that is the beauty of it all. Telling your love story the way you want to.

Need Help Writing Your Vows?

If you’d like guidance or want me to review your vows before the big day, just ask! I love helping couples in create beautiful, heartfelt and unique ceremonies.

Contact me today to chat about your upcoming Perth or South West wedding ceremony and vow-writing tips.

Giving Back With Love

As a Perth marriage celebrant, I’m incredibly honoured to be part of such a kind-hearted and creative local wedding community. That’s why I’ve proudly donated a $500 gift voucher to be used on one of my celebrant packages, as part of a very special raffle fundraiser happening at the upcoming Perth Wedding Expo on October 12th.

This raffle is being organised by the talented Belinda from Two Daisies Creative, who is going the extra mile (literally!) as she trains to run the London Marathon in 2026 in support of Mind, a charity close to her heart.

Supporting a Cause That Matters – What Is Mind?

Mind is a mental health charity that provides vital support, resources, and advocacy for those experiencing mental health challenges. Their mission is to ensure that no one faces mental health problems alone. Whether it’s through counselling services, helplines, or community outreach, Mind makes a real difference and they rely on donations to keep going.

By buying a raffle ticket, you're not just in the running to win an incredible wedding-related prize, you’re helping fund life-changing mental health support for people who need it most.

Visit the Perth Wedding Expo – October 12th

The Perth Wedding Expo is set to be an exciting day filled with wedding inspiration, local vendors, and great energy and the best part? Entry is completely FREE!

While you're there, make sure to stop by Belinda’s stand at Two Daisies Creative to say hello, cheer her on for her marathon journey, and buy a raffle ticket to support this incredible cause.

My $500 gift voucher is just one of the amazing prizes donated by a group of generous local wedding professionals and small businesses. Whether you're planning your big day or just love supporting great causes, this is a perfect opportunity to get involved.

Raffle Highlights

    •    $500 Celebrant Gift Voucher redeemable on any of my wedding packages

    •    More amazing prizes donated by local wedding vendors

    •    All proceeds go directly to Mind

    •    Visit Belinda at the Two Daisies Creative stall

    •    October 12th | Perth Wedding Expo | FREE ENTRY

Belinda will also have a number of tickets for sale online from the 1st of October, so if you can’t make the Perth Wedding Expo there is another opportunity for you to purchase a raffle ticket.

Let’s Raise Funds and Share the Love

Mental health matters, and together, we can make a difference. Come along to the Perth Wedding Expo, support Belinda’s incredible fundraising efforts, and enter the raffle for your chance to win something special for your wedding day all while giving back.

Visit Belinda at Two Daisies Creative and buy a ticket for the raffle your kindness could change a life.

With gratitude and love,

Rachael

Registered Marriage Celebrant

Perth Wedding Planning? Here’s What’s Trending in 2025/2026

Curious about what’s shaping Australian weddings in 2025? As a Perth marriage celebrant, I work with modern couples every day and I’m seeing a beautiful shift toward meaningful, sustainable, and highly personalised celebrations.

Whether you're planning a Perth beach wedding, an intimate vineyard gathering in Swan Valley, or even a cruise wedding off the WA coast, these 2025 wedding trends will inspire your perfect day.

1. Sustainable Weddings & Eco-Conscious Ceremonies in Perth

Couples are embracing sustainability in every aspect from digital wedding invites and plantable favours to eco-conscious venues across Perth. Think: locally sourced florals, biodegradable decor, and plastic-free styling. Some couples opting to choose a donation to their chosen charity in the names of their guests as wedding favours. More Perth wedding venues, such as Perth City Farm, are now proudly showcasing their green credentials.

Perth City Farm, in East Perth is one of the most popular choices for couples looking for a sustainable wedding venue in Perth. This unique space is more than just a venue it's an urban farm, community hub, and eco-friendly event space that offers a beautifully low-impact setting for weddings. Set among organic gardens, native plants, and rustic buildings, it’s perfect for couples who want a celebration that’s both stylish and environmentally conscious. With the freedom to choose your own eco-friendly wedding styling, catering, and vendors, Perth City Farm allows you to design a wedding that reflects your values. Its focus on locally sourced produce, sustainability, and community engagement makes it a standout venue for green weddings in Perth.

2. Micro Weddings & Intimate Celebrations Are Booming

The trend toward smaller guest lists continues into 2025. Micro weddings in Perth offer couples a more intimate and personalised experience with less stress and more meaning. From private garden ceremonies to boutique winery weddings in WA, couples are choosing quality time with loved ones over large crowds.

Anderson Point, located near Walyunga National Park in the Perth Hills, is a hidden gem for couples planning a micro wedding in Perth. With space for up to 30 guests, it’s ideal for intimate wedding ceremonies surrounded by nature. Rather than a traditional reception hall, this rustic Perth wedding venue offers breathtaking bushland views, natural red earth ledges, and complete privacy. It’s the perfect choice for couples who want a stress-free, meaningful wedding experience in a setting that feels peaceful, personal, and deeply connected to the land.

3. Personalised, Immersive Wedding Experiences

Modern couples are skipping cookie-cutter ceremonies for completely custom experiences. Think: interactive food stations, signature cocktails, live music, and ceremonies that tell your unique love story. As a celebrant in Perth, I help craft ceremonies that reflect your personality, humour, and shared journey not just the usual script.

Alana Fay Music is a Perth wedding singer and acoustic artist known for her soulful vocals and elegant live performances. Perfect for ceremonies, receptions, and first dances, Alana creates a romantic, relaxed vibe tailored to each couple. With custom packages and years of wedding experience, she’s a top choice for live wedding music across Perth and WA.

4. Bold Colour Palettes & Maximalist Wedding Styling

In 2025, jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and burnt orange are replacing soft pastels. Expect dramatic florals, velvet textures, and bold styling across Perth wedding setups from Fremantle to Margaret River.

For couples craving a jewel-toned wedding in Perth, look no further than FreakHaus and Signature Floral Design. FreakHaus, known for bold, non-traditional floral styling across Fremantle, Margaret River, and the Perth Hills, brings rich tones and fearless creativity to every event. Meanwhile, Signature Floral Design, with over two decades of experience, specialises in creating bold, colourful, garden-inspired florals. Both are fantastic choices for creating dramatic, jewel-toned wedding aesthetics that wow your guests.

5. Vintage Glamour & Nostalgic Vibes

Retro is back! Couples are embracing 1920s-inspired decor, mismatched bridesmaid dresses, and even heart-shaped wedding cakes. Vintage elegance with a modern twist is a rising favourite among Perth couples.

For a sweet nod to vintage romance, Sieve & Stone in Dianella offers the Heart Minimal Lambeth Cake perfect for micro weddings and intimate Perth celebrations. With delicate piping, soft colour palettes, and custom flavours, these heart-shaped cakes are as beautiful as they are personal. Ideal for couples wanting a stylish, nostalgic cake with modern flair. Lisa from Sieve & Stone also offers a wide range of cakes to suit all your wedding desires from the traditional to the non-traditional, they will have you covered!

6. Multi-Day Wedding Celebrations

Why limit the fun to one day? Weekend-long weddings are trending across WA. Picture this: welcome drinks Friday night, the ceremony Saturday, recovery brunch Sunday. It's the perfect way to celebrate with out-of-town guests in destination-style Perth weddings.

Getting hitched in the South West? Kick off your Margaret River wedding weekend in style at Eagle Bay Brewing Co, a popular brewery and venue offering customisable packages perfect for welcome drinks or pre-wedding celebrations. Enjoy use of their rustic restaurant, garden bar, expansive lawn, and orchard ideal for hosting intimate gatherings with friends and family. With its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful outdoor spaces, Eagle Bay Brewing Co is a top choice for couples planning a weekend-long wedding in Margaret River who want to create unforgettable memories before the big day.

7. Elevated Wedding Tech & Digital Moments

2025 weddings are going digital: live-streamed ceremonies, drone footage, QR code seating charts, and same-day social media reels created by on-site content creators. As your Perth celebrant, I can help integrate these modern touches seamlessly into your ceremony.

For couples seeking to capture and share the magic of their wedding day in real time, Jason Tey Studios in Perth offers expert same-day edit highlight videos. Known for their cinematic style and attention to detail, Jason Tey and his team create stunning social media reels that can be shared with guests during the reception or posted online shortly after. This service ensures your loved ones don’t miss a moment, perfectly blending professional storytelling with the fast-paced world of social media

8. Designer Desserts & Interactive Food

Traditional tiered cakes are being swapped for rolling gelato carts, mini pavlovas, and grazing-style dessert tables. These sweet treats also double as wedding entertainment—a perfect fit for relaxed Perth weddings.

Add a touch of Italian flair to your Perth wedding with That Little Gelato Cart. This family-run business brings freshly made, locally crafted gelato straight from Manjimup to your event. Their charming vintage-style carts can be customised to match your wedding theme, offering a unique and delicious treat for your guests. Perfect for outdoor venues or as a delightful dessert station, their service includes friendly staff, eco-friendly cups, and a selection of premium flavours. Whether you're hosting a micro wedding or a grand celebration, That Little Gelato Cart ensures a memorable experience. With options for customisation and branding, it's an ideal choice for couples seeking a distinctive and sweet addition to their special day.

9. Unique, Unconventional Wedding Fashion

Wedding attire in 2025 is all about self-expression. Expect coloured gowns, jumpsuits, custom sneakers, and mismatched bridal parties. There’s no one way to look the part—and couples in Perth are loving the freedom.

Perfect Attire in Perth offers a stunning collection of bold-coloured suits, perfect for anyone who want to make a statement on their wedding day. Specialising in custom tailoring and bespoke wedding suits, Perfect Attire provides vibrant and unique suit options that go beyond the traditional black and navy. Whether you're looking for deep emerald greens, rich burgundies, or striking royal blues, their expert tailors ensure a perfect fit and exceptional craftsmanship. Embrace your style and stand out with Perfect Attire’s bold suit colours that add personality and flair to any wedding in Perth.

10. Interactive Ceremony and Reception Elements

Couples are making their wedding ceremonies more engaging and memorable by incorporating interactive elements. From guest vow books and unity rituals like planting a tree together, to personalised readings and live art creation during the ceremony, these unique touches invite guests to participate and feel more connected to the celebration. Another popular addition is the audio wedding guest book, where guests record heartfelt messages or well-wishes that the couple can cherish forever. This trend transforms the ceremony from a passive experience into a heartfelt, shared moment that truly reflects the couple’s story and values.

Looking to capture unforgettable memories at your Perth wedding? The Live Wedding Artist by Kiziah creates stunning live paintings during your ceremony or reception, offering a unique keepsake that guests can watch come to life in real time. For a sentimental touch, Glad You Called offers retro audio wedding guest book hire in Perth, where guests record heartfelt messages via a vintage rotary phone perfect for couples wanting something nostalgic and personal. These creative wedding add-ons are perfect for making your celebration in Perth truly one-of-a-kind.

Why These 2025 Wedding Trends Matter

As a Perth-based marriage celebrant, I see firsthand how modern couples are redefining what weddings mean. It's not about following every trend it’s about choosing what resonates with your story, values, and vibe.

Weddings in the 2025/26 are authentic, joyful, and tailored to you.

Let's Create a Ceremony That Feels Like You

Whether you're dreaming of a backyard elopement, a sunset ceremony on the Swan River, or a three-day wedding weekend in the hills or South West, I’d love to help bring your vision to life.

Get in touch today to chat about how we can weave some of these 2025 wedding trends into your Perth or South West ceremony.

With Love,

Rachael

Registered Marriage Celebrant

Getting Legally Married in Perth: A Celebrant’s Guide

Getting Married in Australia: What You Need to Know About the Legals

If you’re planning a wedding in Australia, congratulations! It’s an exciting time filled with joy, anticipation, and (let’s be honest) a few logistics. One of the most important things to get right? The legal requirements of marriage.

As a registered marriage celebrant servicing Perth and the South West, I help couples navigate this process every day, and I know it can seem a little overwhelming at first. But don’t worry—it’s more straightforward than you might think.

Here’s a simple guide to the key legals of getting married in Australia so you can tick all the right boxes and focus on what really matters—celebrating your love.

1. Choose an Authorised Celebrant

To be legally married in Australia, your ceremony must be conducted by an authorised marriage celebrant—someone registered with the Attorney-General’s Department. This can be a:

• Civil marriage celebrant (like me!)

• Religious celebrant

• State or territory registry official

Before booking, always make sure your celebrant is registered and authorised to perform legal marriages.

2. Submit a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)

The Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) is a legal form that must be submitted at least one month before your wedding date, and no more than 18 months prior.

You’ll need to provide:

• Original ID documents (usually birth certificates or passports)

• Proof of divorce or death certificate, if you’ve been previously married

Both parties must sign the NOIM in front of an authorised witness. If you're unable to submit the form together, one party can submit it, and the other can sign it later (but before the ceremony).

3. Make Legal Declarations

Before the ceremony, you’ll each need to sign a Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marriage, confirming that you are:

• Of legal age (18+)

• Not married to someone else

• Not closely related by blood or marriage

• Giving consent freely

This is usually completed a few days before or on the day of your wedding just prior to the ceremony. It also must be done separately, so I will meet with each of you privately to sign this one.

4. Say the Legal Wording in Your Ceremony

For your marriage to be legally binding, your celebrant must include certain words in the ceremony—and you must say some of them too.

Celebrant’s legal wording:
"I am duly authorised by law to solemnise marriages according to the law in Australia..."

Couple’s legal vows (each person must say):
"I call upon the persons here present to witness that I, [your full name], take you, [partner’s full name], to be my lawful wedded husband/wife/spouse/partner in marriage."

These words must be said exactly— don’t worry, as your celebrant, I will guide you through it all. I will also let you know the parts we can change to ensure the ceremony is inclusive and LGBT+ friendly.

5. Sign the Official Marriage Certificates

During the ceremony, you’ll sign three marriage certificates:

1. One for the couple (your keepsake)

2. One for the celebrant’s records

3. One that’s sent to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM) to legally register your marriage

You’ll also need two witnesses over 18 years old to sign the documents. They don’t have to be part of the wedding party, but they must be present for the entire ceremony. If you are eloping, I am more than happy to arrange two witnesses for you.

6. Registering the Marriage

After the ceremony, your celebrant will lodge the legal paperwork with the relevant state or territory’s Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages—usually within 14 days.

Once registered, you can apply for an official marriage certificate from the BDM (this is different from the decorative certificate you receive on the day). This official certificate is what you'll need for changing your name, applying for visas, or proving your marriage legally.

A Final Word

Weddings are full of emotion, beauty, and love—but it’s the legal framework that makes it official. As your celebrant, I’m here to make sure the legal side of your wedding is handled with care and clarity, so you can relax and enjoy the day knowing everything’s in order.

Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate elopement, the legals are the same—and they can be a meaningful part of your ceremony too.

If you have questions about getting married in Perth or the South West, I’d love to chat.

With love,
Rachael
Registered Marriage Celebrant