Josh Withers: The Tasmanian Wedding Celebrant

In the heart of the Huon Valley, nestled in the charming township of Ranelagh, resides one of Tasmania’s most sought-after wedding celebrants. Josh Withers isn’t just officiating marriages; he’s revolutionising the way Tasmanians celebrate love.

“Most couples don’t realise their ceremony can be the best part of their wedding day until they’ve experienced one that truly speaks to who they are,” The Tasmanians recently heard from Josh during a conversation over coffee at a local Hobart café.

What sets Hobart wedding celebrant Josh Withers apart in Tasmania’s wildnerness and adventerous wedding scene isn’t simply his credentials (though being a Commonwealth Marriage Celebrant since 2009 certainly establishes his expertise). Rather, it’s his fundamental belief that marriage ceremonies should be meaningful experiences that reflect the couple’s unique story – not just legal formalities to endure before the reception begins.

This philosophy has taken Josh from his Huon Valley home to ceremonies across Tasmania and indeed, around the world. From intimate elopements on kunanyi/Mt Wellington to grand celebrations at Hobart’s historic venues, Josh approaches each ceremony with the same dedication to authenticity and connection, the simple beleif that the marriage ceremony can be and should be the best part of the wedding.

A Tasmanian With Global Experience

While proudly calling the Apple Isle home, Josh brings a wealth of international experience to Tasmanian couples. Having officiated thousands of weddings across more than 20 countries, his global perspective enriches the ceremonies he creates for local couples.

“There’s something special about Tasmanian weddings,” local photographers often comment. “When Josh is the celebrant, you can feel the difference in the energy. Guests are engaged, couples are present in the moment, and there’s this beautiful blend of laughter and sentiment that makes for magical ceremonies.”

This unique approach stems partly from Josh’s background in radio broadcasting, giving him an innate understanding of how to read a crowd and create memorable moments. It’s a skill that translates perfectly to wedding ceremonies, where connecting with both the couple and their guests creates an atmosphere of inclusion and celebration.

The Elopement Specialist

For those seeking something more intimate, Josh co-runs The Elopement Collective with his wife Britt. This venture has become particularly popular with couples looking to marry in Tasmania’s breathtaking natural settings – from the rugged coastlines of Bruny Island to the tranquil forests of the Huon Valley.

“Tasmania offers some of the most spectacular backdrops for elopements anywhere in the world,” Josh believes. “There’s something deeply special about committing to one another in these wild, beautiful places.”

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Beyond his work with individual couples, Josh is passionate about elevating the entire celebrant industry through education and mentorship. As co-owner of the Celebrant Institute, he helps train the next generation of celebrants, ensuring that couples across Tasmania (and beyond) can access meaningful ceremony experiences. The Celebrant Institute RTO also offers the Certificate IV in Celebrancy to help Tasmanians study to become a celebrant and they can do it all online.

His advocacy has also extended to modernising marriage legislation, working to make the process more accessible while maintaining the significance of the commitment being made.

Booking a Ceremony With Josh

For Tasmanian couples seeking a ceremony that feels personal, meaningful, and genuinely enjoyable, Josh Withers offers something truly special. His calendar fills quickly, particularly during Tasmania’s prime wedding season from October through April, so couples are encouraged to reach out well in advance.

“I believe that how you marry matters,” Josh often says. “It sets the foundation for your entire marriage.”

In a state renowned for its natural beauty, exquisite food and wine, and warm hospitality, Josh Withers is ensuring that Tasmanian wedding ceremonies rise to the same world-class standard – creating celebrations that are as extraordinary as the love stories they honour.

For more information about Josh Withers, follow his adventures on Instagram @hellojoshwithers.