The wedding of Jess and Johnny, Mantells, Auckland, December 2025

This wedding was on a typically overcast, tempestuous Auckland day with the worry that the clouds might burst open just when the ceremony was about to start. The photographer assured me, however, that the lighting was perfect. Everything fell into place, the couple having flown back home for the service only a couple of days before. I’d chatted with them on Zoom about their requirements, what was important to them, and encouraged them to be individual in their personal vows—we were all happy with the result.

I like to tailor the ceremony to the feel comfortable and real to the couple, and take much pleasure in crafting bespoke ceremonies. Jess and Johnny’s featured song lyrics which captured beautifully their commitment to each other. They also read them to each other with complete calm and poise—everyone was moved.

“Nina was an outstanding celebrant for our special day: well-spoken, confident, reassuring and organised. We met with her to rehearse the day before our wedding, which was most helpful, and her communication throughout the process was fantastic. She looked after the administration aspects most effectively. Further, Nina's input stitched together our ceremony so beautifully - she is a superb writer. We are very grateful and would highly recommend!”

Jess and Johnny, Sydney

My next wedding is in a few weeks…may the weather gods exhaust themselves with all this rain and the skies clear for that special day.

The wedding of Nicky and Sam, Kaiwaka, Auckland, Valentine’s Day 2026

Well the weather was testing everyone during the rehearsal the night before, and right up until the guests started to arrive at the private lakeside venue on the day. The scenic location for Nicky and Sam’s wedding was even more beautiful in the low light in between the showers, and as family and friends gathered the rain luckily vanished.

There was so much love at this wedding, with Caio, the couple’s gorgeous son, running from his grandmother to the groom to the bride, happily a part of the nuptials. The bride was serenaded by a close friend whose lyrical singing enchanted everyone. Watching Sam and Nicky pledge themselves to each other made the world seem a brighter place.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better celebrant. Nina is proactive, thoughtful and diligent — quickly establishing herself as a safe space for us throughout our wedding journey. For our rehearsal, we were very nervous and a little frantic and disorganised, and she gently brought structure without ever being pushy. She understood what we wanted, had practical tips for calming our nerves and brought clarity and confidence to everyone, which made such a difference to our day. All of us came away from the rehearsal and subsequently the wedding raving about Nina!”

Nicky and Sam, Auckland