The wedding celebrant

Young flowergirls enjoy free time during the signing of the register  at Melanie Sharp and James...
Young flowergirls enjoy free time during the signing of the register at Melanie Sharp and James Rowcroft's wedding at Larnach Castle in February. Photo by Moira Clark, M.Photog, NZIPP, AIPP.
The name marriage celebrant refers to anyone who has the necessary qualifications to perform marriage ceremonies. These include ministers, rabbis, pastors and priests. All those who have no affiliation to a religion are called independent marriage celebrants.

They have been called this since the establishment of the Civil Union Act 2004. All are licensed to perform weddings under the Marriage Act 1955, with some approved and registered to perform civil union ceremonies under the 2004 Act.

Independent celebrants in southern New Zealand are in demand by local couples and those from overseas. Many overseas couples travel across the world to Otago and Southland to be married at locations that showcase the spectacular nature of this area.

Many couples who live locally or who have strong family ties with Otago and Southland choose an outdoor location of special significance to hold their wedding ceremony. This might be the garden of the family home or holiday house, or spectacular venues such as the beach, lakeside or skifield. But, no matter what the challenges, celebrants take them in their stride.

To find out more about our local Wedding Celebrants check out the list below or visit our Wedding Celebrant http://www.odt.co.nz/lifestyle/wedding-guide/wedding-celebrants  

Marriage Celebrants:

Ross Andrew

Lynne Greer

Joy Ramsay

Bev Clarke

Philippa Cook

Marg Matheson

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