Jo Darby - Marriage Celebrant
About Me

Hello, I'm Jo.

Every ceremony marks a moment, whether you’re beginning, renewing, or honouring a life well lived.

I am a registered marriage celebrant who believes that a ceremony should feel genuine, relaxed and deeply personal, never rushed, scripted or generic.

I work with couples of all ages and backgrounds, from those planning their first wedding to those beginning a new chapter, or choosing to reaffirm their commitment through a renewal of vows. What matters most to me is that your ceremony reflects who you are, where you’ve been, and what you’re choosing together.

My approach is calm, organised and down to earth. I’ll guide you through the legal requirements clearly and simply, while taking the time to really listen to your story. From there, I create a ceremony that feels natural and meaningful, one that sits comfortably with you and resonates with the people you love.

Whether your day is large or intimate, traditional or relaxed, celebratory or quietly significant; my role is to support you, steady the moment, and hold space for what truly matters.

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How it Works

Your Ceremony Journey

I believe in a transparent, stress-free process so you can focus on enjoying the lead-up to your big day.

1

The First Hello

We start with a relaxed, no-obligation chat over coffee (or Zoom) to hear your story and see if I’m the right fit for your day.

2

The Legalities

If we decide to move forward, I guide you through the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and ensure all legal boxes are checked seamlessly.

3

The Creation

I take the time to write a highly personalised ceremony. You have unlimited contact and full approval over the script before the day.

4

The Big Day

I arrive early to coordinate with your other vendors, calm any nerves, and deliver a ceremony that feels natural, meaningful, and entirely yours.

How to Choose the Right Celebrant

Choosing a celebrant is about more than availability or price, it’s about finding someone who feels right for you and your ceremony. A legitimate celebrant will be transparent about their registration, process, and inclusions.

Look for clear communication, experience, and an approach that matches your vision. Reviews and recommendations can be helpful, but most importantly, trust how you feel when you connect with them.

If you’d like to see whether I’m the right fit for your special day, feel free to get in touch for a relaxed chat.

First Coffee On Me
Services & Packages

Crafting Your Perfect Moment

Wedding Bliss

A Personalised Wedding Ceremony

For couples who would like a warm, personalised ceremony that reflects their journey together, whether this is your first marriage, a second chapter, or something beautifully in between.

Includes:

  • Initial consultation (1 – 1.5 hours)
  • Planning and writing of your personalised ceremony
  • Unlimited phone and email contact
  • Final consultation to confirm all details
  • Attendance at your rehearsal
  • Portable PA system and your choice of music
  • Signing table and chairs
  • Ceremonial wedding certificate
  • Completion and lodgement of all legal paperwork
  • Application for Official BDM Wedding Certificate
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The Scripted Ceremony

Character or Themed Ceremonies

For couples who want something a little different, inspired by a favourite film, play, or event date. Carefully adapted into a meaningful, one-of-a-kind ceremony.

Includes:

  • Initial consultation (2 hours)
  • Planning and writing of your scripted ceremony
  • Unlimited phone and email contact
  • Final consultation to confirm all details
  • Attendance at your rehearsal
  • Portable PA system and your choice of music
  • Signing table and chairs
  • Ceremonial wedding certificate
  • Completion and lodgement of all legal paperwork

* Costumes are not provided.

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Pure & Simple

Legals Only

A simple, relaxed option for couples wanting a short, meaningful ceremony without the extras. Ideal for second marriages, elopements or intimate gatherings.

Includes:

  • Initial consultation (1 hour)
  • Unlimited phone and email contact
  • Preparation and completion of all legal documentation
  • Your words, your vows
  • Solemnisation using the required legal wording
  • Ceremonial wedding certificate
  • Lodgement of paperwork with BDM
  • The official marriage certificate from BDM
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Renewal of Vows

Honouring Your Journey

A renewal of vows isn’t about starting over; it’s about acknowledging everything you’ve already built together. Perfect for anniversaries or private celebrations.

Includes:

  • Initial consultation, either by phone or in person
  • A thoughtfully written ceremony reflecting your history
  • Guidance and optional wording for renewing your vows
  • Guidance on structure, timing, music cues, and flow
  • Acknowledgement of children or blended families
  • A commemorative vow renewal certificate
  • Flexible location (home, outdoors, or venue)

* A vow renewal is non-legal, allowing complete creative freedom.

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Baby Bliss

A Personalised Naming Ceremony

A celebration of life, love, and community, a special moment to honour your child and the journey ahead.

Includes:

  • Initial Consultation to hear your story and values
  • A ceremony tailored to your family
  • Official announcement of the child’s name(s)
  • Flexible Location
  • Optional symbolic rituals (sand, tree planting)
  • Advice on ceremony structure and family participation
  • A commemorative baby naming Certificate
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Google Reviews

What Couples Say

"Jo was perfect! A dear mutual friend recommended her to us and described her to me as 'darling and divine', and she was! From the very start she wanted to make our day perfect and extra special for us. She helped us to organise our wedding in just under 6 weeks!!! Jo walked us through and answered all our questions, and gave us great advice to really make our day what we wanted. She was comforting, reassuring and went the extra mile to help us. The day itself was perfect, and she conducted the ceremony so beautifully! It was heartfelt, personal, capturing exactly who we are as a couple. It was a joy! Thank you so, so much, Jo!"

Jessica

"Jo was so wonderful to work with, and truly made our wedding that extra bit special. She's incredibly professional, creative and down to earth. She works alongside you to bring your wedding to life!"

Olivia

"Jo was just amazing for us in the lead up to our wedding and our wedding day. She is so carefree and fun, and is amazing at her job as a celebrant. Jo made us feel so comfortable on our wedding day. You will not be disappointed in Jo’s service, should you wish to include her on your special day. She was a breath of fresh air! Thankyou Jo x"

Emily

"Jo was our wedding celebrant on 28 June, and she played a huge part in making the day truly special. From the outset, she supported us in planning the ceremony, gently guiding us through every step with incredible patience.

When we met her in person, we felt an instant connection. We shared the same vision for the ceremony, and she understood who we are as a couple perfectly. The result was a deeply personal and touching ceremony that truly reflected who we are as a couple.

If you’re looking for a celebrant to make your day warm, joyful and unforgettable, we couldn't recommend Jo more highly."

Kira

"We had an absolutely amazing wedding with Jo. The amount of time and effort that Jo dedicated towards our wedding was nothing short of amazing. She had great attention to detail and was incredibly warm and friendly throughout the whole process. We would highly recommend for any future couples looking to get married. You cannot go wrong with Jo."

James

"I was a guest at a wedding recently and Jo was the celebrant, I can’t express enough how beautiful the ceremony was conducted and I couldn’t recommend her enough for your special day!"

Chloe

"Jo listened to what we wanted and that’s exactly what we got. Fun, relaxed and intimate. We highly recommend x"

Natalie

"Jo was fantastic!"

Henry

"Jo was amazing, she made the whole experience so much easier. She put so much effort in to ensure that everything was done to our vision. We definitely highly recommend Jo as a celebrant."

Hayley

Read all reviews on Google
Real Weddings

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For recent ceremonies and behind-the-scenes moments.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, I require a deposit of $200 to secure the date and prepare the paperwork. The balance is paid at least 3 weeks before the ceremony.

Yes, everything is prepared, completed and lodged for you. The first step is completing the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM). This form can be lodged anytime between one calendar month and up to 18 months before your big day.

For a legal wedding ceremony, I’ll need to see ID such as passports, driver’s licenses, and birth certificates. If a previous marriage has ended, I’ll also need an official divorce certificate or a spouse’s death certificate.

Of course. Even the smallest ceremonies can feel warm and meaningful. My "Legals Only" option is ideal for this, and is absolutely suitable for second marriages or mature couples starting a new chapter.

No. Both of these are symbolic celebrations, not legal processes. This means you have complete freedom with the wording, structure, and content of the ceremony.

Yes, travel is available across the Riverina and beyond! Additional fees apply for travel over 100kms, depending on the location.

Get in Touch

Let's start planning your journey.

I would love to hear about your plans. Please fill out the form, and I aim to respond within 24–48 hours to arrange a relaxed, no-obligation chat.

Wagga Wagga & The Riverina

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