Nicole Penning

Nicole Penning is an industry-respected, joy-filled and exceptionally experienced Commonwealth Registered Marriage Celebrant, creating unforgettable ceremonies since 2009. Based in Geelong, Nicole is renowned for delivering refined, deeply personal wedding ceremonies that are thoughtfully curated and effortlessly elegant. With a signature style that blends warmth, sophistication, and modern storytelling, she creates ceremonies that feel intimate, elevated, and truly unforgettable.

A natural performer from a young age, the stage was always home. Nicole performed across Australia and overseas before being drawn to celebrancy — where storytelling, connection and presence come instinctively. She prides herself on sharing love stories with authenticity, heart, and a genuine sense of occasion.

At the heart of Nicole’s work is a deep and meaningful connection with her couples. She takes the time to understand not only their story, but the essence of who they are — crafting a ceremony that reflects their relationship with intention, grace, and honesty. Every word is carefully chosen, every moment thoughtfully designed, resulting in a ceremony that resonates long after the day itself.

What once began as a simple hope to marry six couples has grown into a remarkable career. Since 2009, Nicole has delivered close to 700 ceremonies, proudly guiding hundreds upon hundreds of couples through one of the most significant moments of their lives.

Highly regarded within the wedding industry, Nicole has been described by her peers as “the best in the business,” by suppliers as “a new breed of celebrant,” and has even been introduced as “Geelong Wedding Royalty.” Her couples, however, say it best — affectionately calling her “The Queen of Weddings” and “Our Fairy Godmother.”

Nicole’s presence is calm, confident, and polished, offering reassurance and guidance throughout the entire journey. From the very first conversation through to the final moments of your ceremony, she ensures a seamless and beautifully orchestrated experience, allowing you to be fully present in one of life’s most meaningful milestones.

A recognised leader in her field, Nicole’s influence within the celebrancy industry is both respected and far-reaching. As a former trainer and assessor of the Certificate IV in Celebrancy, she has mentored and shaped the next generation of celebrants, instilling a standard of excellence grounded in professionalism, authenticity, and heartfelt delivery.

Her passion for mentoring and educating celebrants continues through her work as an author through the publishing arm of her Celebrancy Business – Celebrant Secrets. Nicole now creates modern, practical, and inspiring resources for celebrants and couples alike — drawing on years of experience and a deep understanding of ceremony creation. Through her writing, she continues to elevate standards, inspire confidence, and contribute meaningfully to the future of the industry.

Friendly, vibrant, and deeply authentic, Nicole has an effortless ability to connect. She engages guests with ease, blends seamlessly with families and wedding parties, and ensures every ceremony runs smoothly and professionally so couples can simply be present in the moment.

With over 30 years of public speaking experience, Nicole moves gracefully from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations with warmth, confidence, and authority.

She is also a proud advocate for equality, having actively supported the Marriage Equality campaign by establishing industry support groups in Geelong and collaborating with fellow celebrants to champion equal marriage rights for all Australians.

Nicole is the Director of the Geelong Celebrant Collective, alongside five highly respected colleagues, where she champions community over competition and fosters a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and connection within the industry.

Nicole Penning is not simply a celebrant — she is a storyteller, mentor, educator, author, advocate, and trusted professional. She has guided hundreds of couples as they stand before their loved ones to say “I do” with confidence and calmness – trusting Nicole to lead the way.

For couples who value experience, attention to detail, and a ceremony that feels as considered as every other element of their day, Nicole offers something truly exceptional — a ceremony that is not only seen and heard, but deeply felt and lovingly remembered, as it should.

To experience the difference of working with a celebrant who truly believes this is her life’s purpose, you are warmly invited to enquire and secure your date with Nicole.

And as she always says, “may the love in your life create a life to love.”