Jade Whaley Celebrant

Jade can offer you a fabulous, stress-free wedding day. From intimate elopements to large epic weddings, Timaru-based celebrant Jade has married loved-up couples across South and Mid Canterbury, Mackenzie District, North and Central Otago and Christchurch.

Say goodbye to wedding day worries and hello to fun and no-stress with Jade, your seasoned, experienced celebrant and MC. Whether you want a simple ceremony, a joyous celebration, or a themed extravaganza, Jade’s expertise and enthusiasm will bring your dream to life. Her relaxed yet professional approach means you can enjoy every moment of your special day.

Tell us about yourself?

Weddings should be filled with love, laughter, and positive vibes. Having met all my incredible couples, being a wedding celebrant is a role I truly love. I’ve officiated hundreds of fabulous weddings, from intimate elopements to grand celebrations. From morning to night, any day of the week, travelling all over the South Island. How lucky am I!

In 2017, I embarked on my celebrant training, and the journey has been better than I imagined. I’m continuously honing my skills and enjoy staying on top of the latest wedding trends. I hold a diploma in Celebrant Studies and am proudly a member of VCANZ. 

Beyond my celebrant role, I wear many hats. I have been self-employed since 2011 as a global life coach and mentor, guiding and supporting people through life’s losses and transformative moments. With a background as a hairdresser, salon owner, and primary school teacher specialising in dyslexia and autism, I bring a wealth of tools and insights to my role as a celebrant. 

My philosophy for life carries over to my weddings. I prioritise fun, making memories, and ensuring everyone feel relaxed and enjoys the moment. Nothing is better than witnessing the couple, their family, and friends fully engaged in the ceremony and loving every minute.

Tell us about your style? I believe in keeping things light, happy, and stress-free because who wants to worry on their big day? I’ll help you transform those jitters into joy and create a wedding day you will never forget.

Best part of any ceremony for you? I love when the music begins for the ceremony—the rush of adrenaline, excitement, love, and anticipation—it’s pure magic.

Favourite things? My husband, kids, and dogs make my life pretty wonderful. Being a celebrant is the icing on the cake (and the cherry on top). I have two grown-up girls forging out their own lives, and they often joke I have replaced them with our two little dogs, Ruby and Betty. I have a happy, busy life and am an active relaxer. I enjoy a sneaky pink gin, salmon on the BBQ, or dinner with friends. I unwind in the garden, and we are slowly (DIY) renovating our old house. Now our family is scattered across NZ and Aussie; some travel is in our plans, which I look forward to.