A bit about me

I’m Jacqui (technically Jacqueline) Retford, a Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrant, mum to two amazing adult daughters and wife to my ever supportive husband of over 32 years. I created Canberra Civil Ceremonies because it gives me an opportunity to bring together all the things I’ve loved doing for over 30 years as a professional development consultant. With my degree in Communications and experience in business, management, and training, I’m equipped to handle any challenge that comes with planning and preparing for your wedding ceremony. My skills in building relationships, coaching, creative writing, and organisation make the process a breeze, so you can feel comfortable and confident as we work together.

When it comes to your big day, I know how to create and deliver a beautiful and memorable ceremony that reflects exactly who you are as a couple, and that your guests will talk about for years to come. As an expert public speaker, I’m able to engage with and entertain groups of any size with ease and a sense of fun. And if you want, I can even stick around and keep the good vibes flowing into your reception.

“I feel privileged to be part of the beautiful and powerful messaging that comes from two people who are in love, making this personal, legal and public commitment to each other for life.”

My beliefs

I am grateful to live on the ancestral lands of the Ngunnawal people, the traditional custodians of this country, whose cultures are among the oldest living cultures in human history. I pay my respects to the elders of the communities I live and work in, and extend my recognition to their descendants past, present and emerging.

I firmly believe in the right of all people to observe their relationships fully and without discrimination. I wholeheartedly support marriage equality, and feel privileged to be able to support the right of all people to access marriage with the partner of their choice, irrespective of gender or sexual orientation.