Creating beautiful moments for your weddings and celebrations
Kia ora
I’m Deb Hall - celebrant and storyteller.
Talking about yourself is never easy - but since you’ll be sharing your story with me, it’s only fair that I share a little of mine. Some may call it oversharing … I call it being real. I am who I am: open, honest, and always myself.
Everyone has a story. I have a few.
Where I Come From
Born and bred a proud Southlander - basically from the swamp at the very bottom of the country, below Invercargill. I was raised on a dairy farm and even married a dairy farmer and for many years that was home. Together we raised three fantastic kids: Michael, Kate, and Ella.
Life Changes, With a Twist (and a Bit of Reinvention)
Life doesn’t always go to plan - and that’s not a bad thing.
Four years ago, life took a different direction and my husband and I decided to consciously uncouple (thank you Gwyneth Paltrow for the term!). Today, we’re both living our best lives in Wānaka … and now both with girlfriends. Yes, there’s a real twist to my story right there - and what matters most is that everyone involved is happy.
When I arrived in Wānaka, I remember thinking: What can I do? And where are the cows?
So, I reinvented myself. More than once.
I went back to what I love - people. Talking to them, feeding them, watering them. I worked in cafés making scones and club sammies, then moved into hosting at a luxury lodge where canapés and champagne were more the vibe. Eventually, I stepped well outside my comfort zone and retrained as a celebrant for weddings and funerals.
Somewhere along the way, I also opened an Airbnb in my home - and yes, I have been known to marry the guests. Sometimes with a platter involved.
Why I Do This
My Mum was an author, and I’m a lot like her.
I’m a storyteller. I love people, their stories, speaking, and - of course - love.
I’ve learned to be real, non-judgemental, open, and endlessly curious. I’ve learned that people evolve, relationships change, and love comes in many forms.
That’s why this work fits me so well.
My vocation is simple: to meet people, help them feel seen, tell their story, and celebrate life and love in all its forms.
What You Can Expect From Me
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Warm
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Calm
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Quirky
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A sense of humour (sometimes dark)
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Non-judgemental
You truly cannot shock me.
Whether you’re eloping, renewing vows, marrying again, or planning a same-sex ceremony - I’m your tribe.
A Few Favourites (Just Because)
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Children: My favourite child is … just jokes. (Indy the dog is pretty great though)
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Food: Japanese and if it comes from the sea, I eat it
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Drink: Kombucha
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Pastimes: Cooking for people, hosting, and meeting new humans
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TV: Schitt’s Creek and Game of Thrones and My Kitchen Rules
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Music: A bit of everything - and yes, I still crack out the moves.
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Exercise: Love deadlifts, hate hills, love discovering new walks with Indy the dog
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Docs & Tattoos: Big fan of both (with meaning, no regerrrts!). I own seven pairs of Doc Martens, Heels? Yes, I can do those too.
Why Book Me as Your Celebrant?
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Because this moment matters.
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Because your story deserves care, humour, and heart.
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And because you want a celebrant who is calm, open, and genuinely on your side.
“I believe everyone should have the opportunity to be married in the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand should they wish, and my aim is to make that affordable”
A simple and intimate celebration on top of a mountain, or a one-of-a-kind event in front of 100 of your favourite people – no matter what’s on your wish-list, I specialise in crafting bespoke celebrations that are all about you.
I believe in the power of love and am dedicated to making your special day magical. I’ll work closely with you to create a heartfelt and memorable experience that resonates with you and your guests.
I can guide you through the whole process including helping you write your personal vows if you need guidance.
In addition to weddings or civil unions, I can undertake any of life’s ceremonies and rituals – commitment ceremonies, vow renewals, pet funerals, celebration of life and living funerals.
Get in touch for a no-obligation meeting filled with laughs and fabulous baking.
Whatever celebration we create together, you'll receive the following:
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Obligation free meeting
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Discussion about the different types of ceremonies to suit your vision and budget
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Advice and guidance when completing the legal documents
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Guidance and resources for writing your vows/promises
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Recommendations for other vendors such as photographer, hair/makeup, venues including parks/lakeside
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A written ceremony
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Ceremony Day
And these extra services are available on request:
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Rehearsal
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PA system
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Use of Gladys the vintage wedding car
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MC
''Love is a partnership of two unique people who bring out the very best in each other, and who know that even though they are wonderful as individuals, they are even better together.''
Pamela Dugdale
Debbie the Celebrant is a proud member of :
