As one of Coffs Harbour’s leading wedding celebrant’s, I have had the privilege of marrying hundreds of couples at times when the weather has other plans.  Let’s be honest, when you imagine your wedding day, you probably picture the Coffs Coast blue skies, sunshine, and that perfect golden-hour glow. So when the forecast calls for rain, it can feel like a challenge.

In fact, some say it’s lucky. There are plenty of very real, very beautiful reasons why rain might just make your big day even more unforgettable.

There’s something about the sound of rainfall that softens the world — it brings people closer together. Whether you’re cozying up under umbrellas, dancing barefoot on damp grass, or snuggled inside a warm venue, rain naturally creates a romantic, intimate atmosphere. It forces everyone to slow down, be present, and just soak in the moment (pun intended).

Any photographer will tell you overcast skies make for the best lighting. No harsh shadows, no squinting eyes — just soft, moody, cinematic beauty. Add some mist or reflections on wet pavement, and you’ve got the recipe for breathtaking photos that are anything but basic. And a couple kissing under an umbrella? Pure romance.

Across many cultures, rain is a sign of new beginnings, fertility, and growth. What better way to start your marriage than with a natural symbol of washing away the past and stepping into something fresh and full of promise?

Rain on your wedding day forces you to let go of perfection. And honestly, that’s a beautiful metaphor for marriage itself. You roll with it. You laugh when things don’t go exactly as planned. You hold hands and make memories anyway — and that’s what makes the day truly yours.

Guests will remember your wedding not because the weather was perfect, but because it was yours. Maybe there were rain boots under wedding dresses, or hot chocolate instead of cocktails, or a spontaneous indoor dance party. Rain has a funny way of creating the most heartfelt, joyful, and candid moments.

So if the clouds roll in — don’t panic.
Grab an umbrella, kiss in the rain, laugh with your people, and know that something beautiful is still unfolding. The best memories often come from the unexpected. And years from now, you’ll smile and say, “Remember how it rained on our wedding day? That was the best.”

Because, truly, it can be and you’re in good hands every step of the way.

Married By Simon – celebrating happiness since 2008.

 
  • Simon, we want to thank you for being part our celebrant, for marrying us and for being a huge part of our beautiful day.  Our ceremony was everything we wanted – relaxed, personal and special.  We appreciate your guidance throughout it all.  Thank you.  With love Karlee and Luke.

    Karlee and Luke

  • Simon made us feel at ease from our first contact through to the conclusion of the ceremony. Simon’s confident, professional and positive approach made the preparation and ceremony a breeze! We sincerely thank him for his contribution to our wedding.

    Louise and Mark

  • Hi Simon, Renee and I just wanted to shoot you a quick email to thank you for your amazing ceremony on Sunday. You were calm and professional throughout the whole process and we were extremely happy with the way you conducted our wedding. A special thank you for coming out on Saturday evening for a practice run through. That really helped to calm everyone and to let us all know what to expect. It was so cool to have the ceremony so personalised and your assistance and advice was greatly appreciated. Nearly all our guests commented on just how special the ceremony was and of course Renee and I are stoked with how it went. We couldn’t have dreamed the ceremony would go so well and without you it wouldn’t have! So thanks again Simon! We will definitely recommend you to any of our friends who need an awesome celebrant!

    Renee and Ben

  • Hi Simon,

    Tim and I are still on cloud nine after reminiscing about the perfect ceremony you created. It was everything we always dreamt of and is something that we will remember for the rest of our lives.

    We can’t thank you enough for all your support and guidance throughout the whole experience, especially your commitment to travel all the way to the Hunter Valley for our wedding. Thank you also for keeping Tim calm whilst he was waiting for me at the alter! I instantly felt more relaxed when I saw you waiting outside the chapel for us.

    The day wouldn’t have been so perfect without you. I’ll send you through some photos of the ceremony when we get them back. If you are ever in Newcastle please don’t be a stranger!

    Tim & Aimee

  • Jordan and I truely didn’t realise how lucky we had scored until the beginning of our ceremony. Simon had ourselves and our guests in tears from laughter and love. He was personal, deep and truely understood how we wanted our ceremony to feel. Our day started at 28 degrees and finished at 45 degrees, however, no matter how hot it became Simon was professional and knew how to make ourselves and our guests feel at ease. Our guests raved about Simon throughout the night and still to this day, we receive compliments on his behalf. He helped to create an atmosphere that will stay with us forever and we cannot thank Simon enough for this. We highly recommend Simon to be a part of your special day.

    Erin & Jordan

  • It was lovely working along side you again at Sarah & Jon’s beautiful wedding, you were superb! I hope you don’t mind but I have put a link to your page on my website – you really are worth recommending!

    Louise Blake Photography