The Ultimate Marriage Celebrant Interview Checklist Before Booking

Don't sign a contract without asking these crucial questions. This comprehensive checklist ensures you find the perfect marriage celebrant for your wedding.

Before the Meeting

1. Are you available on our date?

Confirm availability before investing time in detailed discussions.

2. Can we see your complete portfolio?

Ask for recent work similar to your wedding style and size.

3. What's your starting price for weddings like ours?

Get a ballpark figure before the meeting to ensure you're in the same range.

About Their Experience

4. How many weddings have you done?

Experience matters, but newer vendors can offer fresh perspectives and excellent value.

5. Have you worked at our venue before?

Familiarity with your venue can make a significant difference on the day.

6. What's your style or approach?

Ensure their natural style aligns with your vision.

7. Can you share references or recent reviews?

Reputable vendors happily provide references from recent couples.

The Practical Details

8. What's included in your packages?

Get detailed breakdowns of what each option includes.

9. What's NOT included that couples typically add?

Understand potential additional costs upfront.

10. Can packages be customised?

Flexibility to adapt to your specific needs is valuable.

11. How many events do you take per day/weekend?

Ensure they won't be stretched thin on your wedding day.

12. Who exactly will be there on the day?

Meet the actual people who'll be working your wedding.

Payment & Policies

13. What's the total cost including all fees?

Get a complete quote with no hidden surprises.

14. What's your deposit and payment schedule?

Understand upfront costs and when remaining payments are due.

15. Do you offer payment plans?

If budget is tight, flexible payment can help.

16. What's your cancellation/postponement policy?

Important to understand given uncertainties in wedding planning.

On the Day

17. What time will you arrive?

Ensure they'll be set up and ready when needed.

18. What do you need from us?

Know what you need to provide (space, meals, power, etc.).

19. How do you handle timeline changes?

Flexibility on the day is important.

20. What's your backup plan if something goes wrong?

Emergencies happen — how do they handle them?

After the Wedding

21. What's the delivery timeline?

Know when to expect final products or follow-up.

22. How will items be delivered?

Understand the format and delivery method.

Communication

23. How do you prefer to communicate?

Ensure their approach matches your preferences.

24. How responsive are you typically?

Set expectations for response times.

25. Who do we contact with questions?

Know your point of contact throughout the process.

Top-Rated Marriage Celebrants to Consider

These highly-reviewed professionals have excellent communication and service:

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Last updated: December 2025