Some vendors become more than just collaborators—they become friends. Scarlet Arthur, the heart behind Happily Ever Arthur, is one of those people. From crafting two stunning bespoke looks together—a magnificent pink gown, THE Pink Gown and a chic reception dress for her own nuptials—to sharing countless laughs, we’ve built a connection that goes beyond... I just know you are going to feel her radiating sunshine too. In this little sit down interview with Scarlet, we chat about her journey as a celebrant, the magic of personalized ceremonies, and why she truly makes every couple’s day feel like a dream come true. Not sure what is involved in the Celebrant Process? We asked Scarlet for you! Need help writing your vows? Scarlet's got you there too... Grab a tea (or a vino!) and sit back and enjoy this beautiful read x
How did you get started as a celebrant, and what do you love most about officiating weddings?
I became a registered celebrant in November 2020, inspired by the passing of the same-sex marriage plebiscite in 2017. From the moment I began this journey, my goal has been to bring the perfect balance of love, warmth, and energy to every couple I meet. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of officiating over 100 weddings, each one as unique and meaningful as the love stories behind them.
It’s impossible to pinpoint just one thing I love most about being a celebrant. There are so many unforgettable moments. One that always stands out is when couples choose to keep their ceremony a surprise, hearing each other's responses for the first time as they’re shared back in a heartfelt story. Witnessing their reactions, whether it’s surprise, laughter, or happy tears, as they realize what their partner cherishes most, from life-changing milestones to the smallest yet most meaningful details, is truly magical.
Then there’s the moment when we first sit down to plan the ceremony, when it all starts to feel real. I see the excitement on their faces, the realisation that their wedding day is coming to life, and I feel so lucky to be part of that journey.
The look of pride on parents' faces as they watch their child walk into the ceremony space is another moment that never loses its impact. And when couples share their vows, especially when emotions take over, I love witnessing those quiet gestures of reassurance: the whispered words of comfort, the gentle hand squeezes, the small touches that speak volumes. It’s like a glimpse behind the curtain of their relationship, and it fills my heart every time.
But above all else, I will never tire of learning about love stories. Each one is different, carrying its own energy, its own history, its own magic. Tapping into that and bringing it to life in every ceremony is both a privilege and a responsibility, one that I will never take lightly.
How do you work with couples to make each ceremony feel personal and unique?
My process begins with a detailed breakdown of your ceremony structure. Together, we go through every element with a fine-tooth comb, from the moment your guests arrive to the post-ceremony family photos, ensuring the timeline reflects exactly what you envision. Whether it’s adding special moments or simplifying the flow, every detail is tailored to you.
When it comes to telling your story, my role is simple: to share it with your loved ones and legally marry you. I’m here to make sure the ceremony feels like an authentic reflection of you as a couple. I want your guests to walk away feeling like they truly witnessed your love, in a way that felt personal, meaningful, and uniquely yours.
To make that happen, I take the time to understand your tone and priorities. You and your fiancé will share what matters most to you for the day, the ‘vibe’ you want to create, and complete a carefully designed questionnaire. These are meant to be filled out separately (and ideally without discussing your answers!), allowing me a deeper insight into both of you, who you are as individuals and how you are together. I always encourage couples to write as if they’re having a conversation with me so I can truly capture their energy and personalities.
From there, I craft your story using only the details you’ve shared with me, focusing on what we discussed during the ceremony planning. This means that if you choose to keep parts of the ceremony a surprise, you can feel completely at ease knowing that every word I share has your approval.
I also assist with your vows, helping to ensure they align in length and tone. This involves some one-on-one time, making sure you feel confident and comfortable when the moment comes to share them with the love of your life.
No two ceremonies I officiate are ever the same. You provide the details you’re happy to have shared, and I take care of the rest! Crafting a ceremony that feels effortless, heartfelt, and uniquely yours.
What advice would you give to couples looking to write their own vows?
Speak from the heart and try not to compare yourself to others. I often have couples worried that their vows "won't be as good as so and so's" or that they are worried about getting emotional - vows are meant to be emotional, and it's okay to cry at your wedding! No one knows how to write vows, it's okay to ask for help. Write from the heart, make promises you know you can keep, and have someone read over them to ensure you are both on the same page with length and tone. YOU'VE GOT THIS!
Can you share some of your most memorable moments as a celebrant?
Being the Celebrant for my Mum, my Sister and my Best Friend all within the space of 12 months was incredible. It was so special to be a part of such a huge milestone in their lives. I'll cherish those forever.
How do you help calm the nerves of couples on their big day?
I always love to check in with my couples during the week of the wedding, especially if we’re not having a rehearsal. This final run-through of the ceremony ensures they feel as prepared and at ease as possible before the big day.
On the wedding day itself, I make a point to visit both parties while they’re getting ready, offering a quick hug, a pep talk, and a moment of reassurance. If nerves are running high, we take a step away from the excitement for some quiet breathing exercises, creating a calm space to reset and refocus.
Just before the ceremony begins, I always encourage my couples to take a deep breath together. It’s a simple but powerful way to ground themselves in the moment, allowing them to be fully present as they step into this incredible milestone.
What are some common questions couples have about the legal aspects of marriage in Australia?
"Can I use the yellow certificate to change my name?"
No, you cannot. The yellow marriage certificate you receive on the day of your wedding is more of a 'pretty receipt'. Most Celebrants will register your marriage for you after your wedding. They will lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage, Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marriage and your Official Marriage Certificate to Births Deaths and Marriages - Once registered you will received a marriage certificate in the mail (it will look similar to your birth certificate) - if you want to change your name, USE THAT ONE.
Can you walk us through what a typical planning process looks like with you?
Step 1: Initial Consultation (Online)
This is our chance to connect and see if we’re the right fit! We’ll chat about your vision, and you can get a feel for my approach to ensure we’re aligned.
Step 2: Booking In
To officially secure your wedding date, a 50% deposit and a signed services agreement are required.
[At least 2 months before your wedding]
Step 3: Our First Meeting
In this meeting, we’ll sign your Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and map out your ceremony structure. This session is all about planting ideas so you and your partner can take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you both for your ceremony.
Step 4: Post-Meeting Recap & Resources
After our meeting, I’ll send you a full recap of everything we discussed. Your ceremony structure remains flexible—we can tweak and refine the details right up until one month before your wedding. You’ll also receive:
Questionnaires (to complete individually)
Vow eBooks for inspiration
A curated list of suggested readings
Playlists & handy checklists
Agreed-upon due dates to keep us on track
Step 5: Questionnaires & First Draft of Vows Submitted
[At least 4 weeks before your wedding]
This is when I receive your completed questionnaires and your first draft of vows, giving me everything I need to start crafting your love story.
Step 6: Second Meeting
We’ll check in on your planning progress, address any questions, and go over any updates to your ceremony structure.
Step 7: Vows & Ceremony Confirmed
[At least 2 weeks before your wedding]
By this stage, everything is finalised! Your ceremony script and vows are locked in, so you can focus on the excitement of the big day.
Step 8: Optional Rehearsal
[At least 1 week before your wedding]
A rehearsal can be scheduled at least a week before your wedding (or even the night before) if you'd like to run through the flow one last time.
Step 9: Signing the Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marriage
[Wedding Week]
This must be signed as close to your wedding day as possible, typically on the day itself. We’ll also have one final catch-up to go over any last-minute details.
Step 10:
LET’S GET YOU MARRIED!
Step 11: Marriage Registration
[No later than 1 week after your wedding]
I’ll officially register your marriage with Births, Deaths & Marriages NSW, ensuring all legalities are taken care of.
How do you adapt the ceremony for different cultural or family traditions?
Every couple’s love story is unique, and I believe their ceremony should be just as personal. When incorporating cultural or family traditions, my goal is to ensure these meaningful elements blend seamlessly into the ceremony while still reflecting the couple’s personalities and priorities.
During our planning process, I take the time to learn about any traditions that are important to you and your families. Whether it’s a cultural ritual, religious blessing, or symbolic gesture, we work together to find the best way to honor it in a way that feels natural and authentic. I also provide guidance on how to balance different traditions, especially in blended families or multicultural weddings, so that everyone feels included and respected.
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