LOVE VERIFIED CEREMONIES
Jessica McDougall
For Civil Ceremonies in Brisbane & on the Redlands Coast
Everything you need included — Elegantly Simple, No Hidden Costs.
About Jessica
I’m a Redlands Coast mum, wife, beach-goer and dog lover — happiest with sand between my toes and a good love story in front of me.
My journey into the world of “I do’s” began at Palazzo Versace on the Gold Coast, coordinating weddings and watching magic unfold up close. I loved being part of that behind-the-scenes buzz — the anticipation, the tiny nervous glances, the big emotional moments when everything finally came together. There’s something incredibly special about seeing a day that’s been so carefully imagined actually come to life.
With a strong background in planning, organising and delivering events, I know how to keep things calm, seamless and beautifully executed — even when emotions are running high (in the best possible way).
I’ve also spent years in the radio industry as a voice artist, which means I know how to speak with warmth, clarity and rhythm — making sure every word lands exactly where it should. I’m comfortable behind a microphone, easy to listen to, and always bring a sense of humour and heart. My work as a freelance writer also means I’m constantly shaping stories — crafting words that feel natural, meaningful, and true to each couple.
My path to celebrancy really became clear when my brother-in-law asked me to officiate his wedding. What started as a “one-off” turned into a calling — and I went on to become a qualified Civil Celebrant so I could do this properly, and for many more couples.
Now, I get to do what I love most — create ceremonies that feel like you. Real, relaxed, and full of meaning. Ceremonies that tell your story honestly, beautifully, and in a way that feels completely your own. 💛
Testimonials
“Amazing to work with, she made our day magical. Lots of communication and stepped aside so everyone could focus on us” - Kara & Nik
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“Highly recommend Jess for your next Ceremony as your celebrant! Her warm welcoming nature will make you and your guests at ease and her attention to detail will make sure the ceremony runs smoothly! I recommend Jess with my eyes closed! She will make sure your ceremony is unique and to your liking. You won't be disappointed!” - Claire & Andrew
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“Thank you so much for the amazing ceremony!” - Megan & Kris
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"She was very attentive, easy to work with and professional." - Kate
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“Jess is friendly, professional and passionate about what she does! She takes any ceremony to the next level with her attention to detail and provides a personalised touch with gentle suggestions and recommendations without being pushy. Exactly what I needed!” - Lia & Michael
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"Jessica was a fantastic celebrant at my wedding. Very attentive to our wishes and extremely engaging throughout" - Grant & Richenda
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"Cant recommend enough! Jess has gone well and truly above and beyond to make our day truly remarkable, from start to finish! And has helped us with everything, from writing our vows, and answering countless questions. Every step of the way, she has helped us! We can’t express how grateful we are to have chosen Jess to be our Celebrant! - The Joneses
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"Couldn't ask for a better celebrant!!! Jess was absolutely amazing - she made the whole process super easy and was always there to help us when needed and had millions of questions. The attention to details she gave to understanding our story and putting that together just made the ceremony. She was always willing to give us advice on things when we weren't sure and just overall went above to ensure our day was super special. Thank you Jess!!!" - Teagan & Josh
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"Thank you for being a part of our day and keeping our little secret" - Bec & Braydan
“Amazing to work with, she made our day magical. Lots of communication and stepped aside so everyone could focus on us” - Kara & Nik • “Highly recommend Jess for your next Ceremony as your celebrant! Her warm welcoming nature will make you and your guests at ease and her attention to detail will make sure the ceremony runs smoothly! I recommend Jess with my eyes closed! She will make sure your ceremony is unique and to your liking. You won't be disappointed!” - Claire & Andrew • “Thank you so much for the amazing ceremony!” - Megan & Kris • "She was very attentive, easy to work with and professional." - Kate • “Jess is friendly, professional and passionate about what she does! She takes any ceremony to the next level with her attention to detail and provides a personalised touch with gentle suggestions and recommendations without being pushy. Exactly what I needed!” - Lia & Michael • "Jessica was a fantastic celebrant at my wedding. Very attentive to our wishes and extremely engaging throughout" - Grant & Richenda • "Cant recommend enough! Jess has gone well and truly above and beyond to make our day truly remarkable, from start to finish! And has helped us with everything, from writing our vows, and answering countless questions. Every step of the way, she has helped us! We can’t express how grateful we are to have chosen Jess to be our Celebrant! - The Joneses • "Couldn't ask for a better celebrant!!! Jess was absolutely amazing - she made the whole process super easy and was always there to help us when needed and had millions of questions. The attention to details she gave to understanding our story and putting that together just made the ceremony. She was always willing to give us advice on things when we weren't sure and just overall went above to ensure our day was super special. Thank you Jess!!!" - Teagan & Josh • "Thank you for being a part of our day and keeping our little secret" - Bec & Braydan
LOVE VERIFIED CEREMONIES.
“OMG, we’re engaged! We are so excited! We are in a beautiful love bubble and can’t wait to start planning our day!…Umm okay, where do we start?”
Does this sound familiar? Getting married is exciting, but planning a Wedding can also be very daunting. That’s where I come in, to help you take the stress away. Not only am I a Wedding Celebrant, I also have previous experience in Wedding & Event planning. I have prepared and taken part in all styles of Weddings (elopements, micro-ceremonies and the full, lavish shebang!). So start your Wedding planning journey with me… My background in Wedding Receptions makes me a perfect fit to be your MC too!
In our first, no-obligation chat I’ll get to know about you and your unique love story. *During the planning process, I can consult with you on everything from Wedding vendors and locations, to ceremonial elements, rituals and readings, planning the order of your day, help with writing your personal vows, advice on budgeting, and referrals to Wedding community groups. Throw any questions my way and if I don’t already know the answer, I’ll find it for you.
The right celebrant can make your wedding day truly amazing. I would LOVE to get excited with you, and help you with your plans! I’ll have both you and your guests relaxed, captivated and ready for fun.
We Celebrants, book up fast (often a year or two in advance), so make securing your Celebrant a top priority!
Please check out my packages and testimonials, and if your interested in making a time to meet, simply call or send me an inquiry.
Choose Your Package…
Whether you're dreaming of an intimate elopement, or a big ceremony full of heart – I am here to make your vision come true.
Love knows no bounds, and neither should your special day. I wholeheartedly believe that every love story deserves to be celebrated with joy, authenticity, and respect.
Imagine a wedding ceremony that's as unique as your love story – tailored to reflect your backgrounds, values, and the journey that brought you two together. It's an honour for me to create a space where your love can shine, and where your commitment is embraced and celebrated by all.
What happens next?
Once you’ve browsed my packages, spoken with me…and decided I’m the one for you, we’ll sign a NOIM (Notice of Intended Marriage).
The NOIM needs to be signed in my presence (either online via a virtual meet or in person) at least one month prior to your ceremony. I must sight a proof of birth document and a photographic ID from each of you at that time. If you have been married before, I will need to sight evidence of how that marriage ended. Signing the NOIM is a legal requirement and also confirms your date with me. You can view it here:
Once we’ve met, booking fee has been paid, and NOIM has been signed, I’ll give you access to my Planning Portal (which explains all the elements of a ceremony - as well as vow-writing tips, and some ritual and poetry reading suggestions).
Together we will create a script that will include your personal love story, a few happy tears, a few laughs, maybe a reading or two (* not included for ‘Just Us’ package). You’ll have the opportunity to read my script and make any tweaks necessary. To date, I haven’t been asked to make any changes. My couples have said “Your script! We love it! We wouldn’t change a thing!” and “You have a way with words!”
I’ll provide you with a wedding rehearsal checklist to prepare you for your big day and if you’re reading personal vows, I’ll print them and present them in beautiful leather books for you to read from.
Then ding, dong…it’s Wedding day. I’ll check in with you prior to the Ceremony, sign your Declaration of No Legal Impediment (a document that confirms you are free to marry and not being coerced), be your rock to calm your nerves, make sure your guests are comfortable and amped up, and then we’ll get you two lovebirds hitched!
Want to keep me on to Emcee your Reception? Then please check out my MC package.
Sound good? Contact me now for your first non-obligatory appointment.
My Personal Guarantee
Your Wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. It is too important for a rushed or lack-lustre delivery. I present your ceremony with warmth, emotion, fun and good humour.
I am extremely punctual, and I am always prepared for the unexpected.
I will show the utmost care and sensitivity with your personal documents, and always conduct myself in a professional manner.
Follow me on Insta!
…for ceremony tips, to help plan your day