JOEL PALMER
CELEBRANT & MC
Kia ora, I’m Joel, I’m a wedding celebrant, MC, broadcaster, cat dad, average cook and occasional writer based in the Queenstown Lakes area.
Want a wedding ceremony that’s unique, personal and likely to feature a couple of solid Dad jokes? The ones that you’ll actually love and laugh at… I’m your guy.
I’ve performed almost every role in various weddings for friends and family, and dealt with almost everything this big day can throw at you along the way. So, I am well versed at making sure a wedding’s tone hits all the right notes. My hosting style is relaxed and welcoming, making your wedding ceremony inclusive to all.
I’m a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, slowly planning my own wedding with my long term fiance, whilst also building our first home together. I understand the challenges, excitement and stress of your big day and how different every couple’s needs are. And I’m here to help you with all that, and give you the wedding of your dreams.
I work with you to learn who you are and then reflect your personalities and your story into your ceremony. We meet a number of times before your wedding day (in person or on phone/video calls) to plan every detail, so that you feel ready and comfortable and excited.
I’ve been a radio host and MC for more than 15 years, working across all NZ’s major media companies and at the BBC in London. Prominent events I’ve hosted include Queestown’s Winter Festival, The Wairarapa Sports Awards and Spirit of the Whakatipu Gala. I am comfortable in front of a crowd, can act quick and calm under pressure, and know how to bring the right energy at the right moments for your wedding ceremony or reception.
“Want a wedding ceremony that’s unique, personal and likely to feature a couple of solid Dad jokes? The ones that you’ll actually love and laugh at… I’m your guy.”
JOEL’S Reviews
“The wedding was absolutely amazing and better than anything we could have imagined. The team was absolutely incredible and we are so happy with how it went. Joel did amazing!!!!!! We were telling him how great he was at the end of the day and that’s when the wedding planner told us we were his first couple. We never would have known! He made us feel so comfortable and the ceremony was full of laughter, tears and was just truly incredible. I’m so happy we were able to be his first couple to marry. ” – Secret elopement couple, 8th August 2024
THE YOUR BIG DAY PROMISE
No matter the size or style of your wedding, what you get from YBD is always the same comprehensive and professional service. We tick all the legal boxes, but have a lot of fun along the way!
What to expect from YBD:
- A personalised wedding ceremony, just for you
- Guidance on writing your own wedding vows and provide examples if you wish
- Help applying for your New Zealand Marriage Licence to make it super easy
- Help in obtaining your New Zealand Marriage Certificate
- Personalised recommendations for other wedding industry suppliers and vendors that fit your personal style and budget
- And always be available for questions on anything Queenstown or wedding related
We want to learn more about your wedding plans and ideas, and answer any questions that you might have…say hello using the form below.