My journey to this role has been anything but ordinary, a winding path of experiences that have shaped me into the celebrant I am today.

Thank's for popping in!

Me waiting patiently for "wedding time" at Stonebridge for Chloe + Dan's Wedding. ( and YES it was an epic wedding!)

​"I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE people and their stories, so it was a natural progression for me to become a Marriage and Funeral Celebrant. I feel honoured to share those special moments in a person's or couple's life. Being a celebrant isn't just a job - it is my passion, and I get to live my passion every day! "

My Story

I was born in Dunedin and moved to Christchurch when I was 20. I lived by the Avon River in Avonside until the 2011 earthquake, which prompted me to seek a new adventure. I spent a year in the beautiful township of Alexandra in Central Otago. It was during this time that I met Rob in 2011.

In 2012, with my then-two teenage girls, I decided to make Timaru our new home.My now-husband Rob (pictured), and I have settled in nicely, appreciating Timaru's central location.

Initially, we planned to marry in 2020, but the COVID-19 lockdowns threw a wrench in those plans. We finally tied the knot in April 2021.

Through our own experiences, we understand firsthand what navigating the wedding planning process in today's market is like!

Me in my husband, Rob's race car at Levels Raceway in Timaru. I must admit I thought I was going be sick when the speedo went over 200km so I shut my eyes. I'm better being the cheerleader.

'Jade the Hairdresser and Business Owner'

My hairdressing career began in 1984. I loved the creativity and how a hairstyle could make a person look and feel gorgeous. I have always been a "people person".

Over the years, I have had many life experiences and been able to develop many skills.

My career began as an apprentice hairdresser, earning my Trade Certificate and Advanced Trade Certificate.

I successfully competed in hairdressing competitions and was part of fashion shows. I loved being involved in the community. I happily volunteered my time for many events and local theatre groups. At a fundraiser, I had my first taste as MC when the MC didn't show. 

Some of the hairdressing team I managed. | Mid 1990's in Christchurch. | I have a white shirt on in the back row at the end.

I really enjoyed learning and growing my skills. My hairdressing career was a success, and I found it satisfying. I managed a salon and a large team, eventually becoming self-employed with my hairdressing business.

I spent a total of 20 years as a hairdresser! During that time, I witnessed some great and not-so-great fashion trends (YES! I even cut mullets, flat-tops, and permed people's hair).​

'Jade the Teacher'

I have had every colour and hairstyle under the sun over the years. Purple was a fav for many years. I was known as the teacher with purple hair.

In the early 2000's I changed career paths and studied at Christchurch College of Education and the University of Canterbury.

​I settled into a big primary school (Ilam School in Christchurch) and enjoyed supporting children one-on-one and in small groups.

​My passion was helping children with dyslexia, autism and special needs. My role was ensuring all children had the support and encouragement they needed to do as well as they could at school.

I stayed there until the earthquakes of 2011, which bumped me down to my family in beautiful, Alexandra, in Central Otago. 

'Jade the Life Coach, Guide and Educator ~ Inner Journey Coaching'

Since 2011, I've worked as a self-employed Life and Business Coach, Guide, and Spiritual Development teacher.

I've had the privilege of offering support to thousands of people in New Zealand and worldwide. You can find more about my coaching services on my Coaching Website

Throughout these years, I've dedicated time to training in various modalities and learning from multiple teachers, coaches, institutions, mentors, and healers.

I hold qualifications as a Life Coach and Mentor, and my passion for coaching and supporting people led me into the field of celebrancy.

I've organised and conducted numerous events, expos, and workshops across the South Island. This experience has given me a deep understanding of what goes into making large gatherings successful, including all the behind-the-scenes work.

Jade the Coach + Mentor

'Jade the Funeral Celebrant'

I am experienced in Funerals, Memorials and End of Life Ceremonies. I have supported families through infant loss, suicide, accidents, murder, health battles, sudden death and old age.

I frequently work with individuals nearing the end of their lives and going through challenging times.

My initial interest in celebrancy work stemmed from a desire to honour those that have died and support their families. Having personally experienced unexpected crises and deaths in my own life and being experienced in helping others through their struggles, I understand the profound impact of death and dying.​

Losing a loved one can be a challenging and disorienting experience, whether it's due to illness, old age, sudden death, suicide, accident, murder, or even the loss of an unborn child.

I'm here to be a compassionate presence and support you through your journey during these challenging times.

'Jade the Wedding Celebrant'

Matt + Kanisha tied the knot on a gorgeous day at Kingsdown Manor. They had a relaxed, personalised wedding ceremony filled with lots of laughs, happy tears and love.

I love to work with people as they journey into their new life, so what better way than to be a Marriage Celebrant?

Being part of a couple's special day, supporting them and sharing their love story is the best feeling.

Now, as an independent and registered marriage celebrant, I make couples feel at ease and supported and create the ceremony that is the heart of the wedding. 

I have married over 250 couples all over South Canterbury and beyond. How lucky am I!

Training and Experience

I am warm, caring, empathetic and sensitive. My career is listening and understanding, and I do this well. I am organised, creative and flexible.  I see myself as a story teller and love to write and create ceremonies.

Me at the beginning of my celebrant journey in 2017. I hold a Diploma in Celebrant Studies

I've made significant investments in my professional development, including obtaining qualifications from  The Celebrant School (NZ).

I started by completing a Certificate in Celebrant Studies in 2017 and followed it up by achieving a Diploma in Celebrant Studies in 2018. The Diploma is the highest qualification available for celebrants.

I'm proud to be a professional, verified member of Celebrants Aotearoa   which reflects my commitment to maintaining high standards in my work.
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I believe in continuous learning and regularly engage in professional development activities several times yearly to stay current and provide the best service possible.

Toastmasters and Public Speaking

I was stoked to win the Alpine Toastmaster of the Year 2018/2019.

 I bring a wealth of experience and confidence as a public speaker to my celebrant work. As Past President of Alpine Toastmasters in South Canterbury, I was privileged to be part of the fantastic Toastmasters community.

Throughout my  Toastmasters  journey, I earned four Toastmasters International Certificates, including Competent Communicator, Competent Leader, Advanced Leadership, and Effective Coaching.

These achievements have played a pivotal role in refining my speaking and leadership abilities.

I actively took on various roles and responsibilities at Toastmasters and thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience, contributing to my skills and expertise in public speaking.

Me Today

Chillaxing | Photo by Agnes Grace Photography

My girls and Rob's children, have grown and established their own lives across New Zealand and Australia. Now, I am a proud Mee-ma to three beautiful grand-babies, and it's such a wonderful experience.

In addition to our human family members, we've also welcomed two fur babies into our home. My kids jokingly say that I replaced them with dogs!
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When I take some time off, I  enjoy salmon on the BBQ, a sneaky gin, and treating myself to a nice meal out. Supporting Rob as he races his starlet at South Island Racetracks is another passion of mine. You might even spot my celebrant's name on his race car!

Occasionally, I enjoy weekend getaways in winter, relaxing and spending quality time with my family and friends. It's those moments that genuinely rejuvenate me.

My "Why"

"I welcome people from all walks of life, religions, ethnicity and beliefs. Over the years, I have developed a comprehensive set of skills, and I am open to assisting couples in creating the ceremony that best celebrates them. 

​This may be a full traditional wedding or funeral or a simple ceremony at home.

Living in a smaller town in South Canterbury, all families and couples should have a varied choice of celebrants, and I am my own unique person. With my current work line, I offer a different personality, and I can adapt to couples' and families' wants and needs. 

I love connecting with people and feel it is an honour and a privilege to be part of their special day." 

Connect with Jade

Carmen + James had a personalised ceremony and married at beautiful Castle Claremont | Photo supplied by couple

Jacinda + Kohen had a beautiful winter wedding with a personalised ceremony. | Photo: Belinda Holden Photography