Marriage Celebrants - Sam Johns
- Business: Sam Johns Celebrant & MC
- Location: Byron bay, New South Wales
- Experience: 5 Years
- Profile: Sam Johns Celebrant & MC
- Website: www.samjohnscelebrant.com.au
1. Introduction: What's your story?
Well, I’ve always been someone who loves connecting with people and telling a good story. Back in the day, I was spruiking on the streets, talking on the airport loudspeaker, and even owning my own cocktail bar. I’ve had so many incredible experiences working with people in all sorts of spaces, and one day, I thought, “Why not bring all of that into something meaningful, like weddings?” So, I gave the celebrant gig a go—and I’ve never looked back!
I am a son of a preacher man and from a family of entertainers so being in front of a crowd feels like second nature to me. I love creating a mix of fun, laughter, and those big, heartfelt moments in every ceremony. Weddings are the ultimate combo of everything I enjoy—celebrating love, making people smile, and witnessing those raw, real emotions, like when the groom swears he won’t cry but absolutely loses it when the bride walks down the aisle!
2. What's your experience as a marriage celebrant? How many weddings have you done?
I do about 50 weddings and 30 MC gigs a year, so you could say I’ve got my “I dos” and party vibes down to a fine art. From barefoot beach ceremonies to swanky black-tie events, I’ve seen it all—tears, laughs and the moments that make you say to yourself “That is seriously one for the storybooks!”
3. How far in advance do couples need to secure your services?
Right now, I’m booking weddings anywhere from 6 months to 2 years ahead—yep, couples are seriously organised these days!
I’m pretty much busy all year round now, even in winter, which is actually becoming one of my busiest times. On the Northern Rivers, December and January tend to be a bit quieter, but March, April, and September are still my peak madness months.
4. How would you describe your ceremony style?
What sets me apart is that I don’t use a reading device during ceremonies or receptions. I do lots and lots of homework beforehand, memorising the entire script so I can deliver it naturally, without that “reading off a page” feel. It means I can properly connect with everyone, read the room, and let the ceremony flow naturally.
It also gives me space for those little ad-lib moments when something funny or sweet happens—it’s not forced, it’s just me being in the moment, which leaves a lot of room for those spontaneous funny moments. I’m not a comedian, but people often say I’m fun, engaging, and a quite witty. Honestly, I just reckon being fully present and prepared makes all the difference in creating a ceremony that’s personal, relaxed, and totally unique to each couple.
5. What are your fees for a wedding?
My fees depend on what you’re after, but I’ve got a range of options to suit different vibes and budgets. For a full celebrant package, it’s $1100, and if you want me as both your celebrant and MC, it’s $1600 (bit of a discount there!). For smaller, intimate ceremonies, it’s $900, and if you’re after a quick, no-fuss legal ceremony, that starts at $450.
I like to think my fees reflect the care, prep, and experience I bring to every ceremony. It’s not just about the day itself—it’s all the behind-the-scenes work to make sure everything is perfect for you. If you’ve got something specific in mind, just let me know, and we’ll make it happen!
6. What do you wear when you officiate a wedding?
What do I wear? Well, this is something I take seriously—not because I want to stand out, but because I genuinely love style. I think style is such a personal thing, and once you embrace it, it’s a lot of fun and makes you feel great.
For weddings, my main objective is to make sure the couple shines. I always go for classic, vintage-inspired looks with neutral colours that complement what the groom and groomsmen are wearing. It’s never about me; it’s all about the couple popping in their photos and on the day. Stylish, timeless, and totally in sync with your vibe—that’s the goal!
7. How many pre-wedding sessions will the couple need to have with you?
I reckon this question is best answered by my process! Here’s how it works:
First Chat: We’ll kick things off with a phone or Zoom chat to get to know each other and make sure we’re a good fit.
Lock It In: Once you’re ready, secure your date with a booking fee, and I’ll send you a welcome pack.
4 Months Out: You’ll fill out a fun online questionnaire (seriously, it’s a good time) so I can get to know you both even better.
3 Months Out: We’ll meet in person or over Zoom to sign the legal docs and chat about your ceremony details.
Behind the Scenes: I’ll craft your custom ceremony and help with vow writing if you need it.
1 Week Out: I’ll check in with vendors and key guests to make sure everything’s sorted for the big day.
Wedding Day: You relax and enjoy—it’s all taken care of!
8. Will you be able to create a personalised ceremony?
Absolutely! As I mentioned before, I get to know my couples pretty well through my process. It starts with a quirky little questionnaire you can fill out on your smartphone—it’s fun, I promise! By the time we meet in person, I’ve already got a good sense of your story, your quirks, and what this big day means to you.
When we do catch up (coffee or cocktail, your choice!), we can dive straight into making the ceremony uniquely “you.” This whole process makes it feel like I already know you both, which means the ceremony isn’t just personalised—it’s totally authentic and reflects who you are as a couple.
9. Are you available to travel if needed?
Oh, absolutely! and yes I love a good adventure! All my packages include a 100-kilometre round trip, but if we’re talking a little over, I’m not going to nickel-and-dime you for it. That’s just a loose guide.
If you’re planning something interstate or a bit more epic, I’m all in! I’ve travelled far and wide for weddings, and I always put together a customised package that includes travel. Couples have always been happy with it—probably because I’m worth the ticket ;) So YES if your dream wedding is on a mountaintop, a vineyard, or the back of a ute, just say the word, and I’ll be there!
10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?
Here’s how my cancellation and refund policy works—it’s all about keeping things simple and fair:
The booking fee is non-refundable since it secures your date and covers all the prep work I do upfront.
If you’ve already paid the full balance and need to cancel, refunds aren’t typically offered unless something extreme happens.
If we need to reschedule (like for COVID-19 or other curveballs), I’ll do everything I can to make it work. Your booking fee will roll over to the new date. If we can’t find a date that suits, the booking fee stays with me, but all my prep work (like your NOIM and notes) will go to your new celebrant.
You can check out all the details on my Cancellations/Refunds Policy page.
If you have any questions or worries, just let me know—I’m here to help make things as smooth as possible!
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