Case Study: Benn Stone – The “Triple Threat” celebrant redefining modern weddings

Business: Melbourne Cityside Celebrant
Location: Melbourne
Experience: 3,000+ weddings officiated
Reputation: 500+ five-star reviews
Social following: 22K+
Point of difference: Celebrant, DJ & MC in one seamless experience

From immigration lawyer to 3,000 weddings

Benn Stone didn’t set out to become a celebrant.

In his late 20s, at his brother’s wedding, the celebrant forgot the groom’s name mid-ceremony. Benn’s mum turned to him and said, “If you think you can do better, be a celebrant.”

“It was an accident,” Benn laughs.

At the time, he was working as an immigration lawyer. But something clicked. He started small — aiming for 50 weddings a year, “one a weekend, and maybe I’ll use the money and go to Fiji.”

In his first year, he officiated 80 weddings.

Soon after, he quit his job and committed fully. At one point, he set a goal of 200 weddings per year.

Today, Benn has officiated over 3,000 weddings and built one of Melbourne’s most recognisable celebrant brands.

The ‘Triple Threat’ model: Celebrant, DJ, MC

Two-thirds of Benn’s bookings include DJ services. Nearly 90% of his couples book him as a celebrant, DJ and MC.

His background in DJing plays a crucial role.

“DJing and celebrancy are similar — you’re reading the room.”

That ability to control energy, pace and tone — from ceremony through to reception — creates a seamless experience couples love.

For venues and planners, it also simplifies coordination. One supplier, one contact, one personality guiding the day.

The Benn Stone vibe: Light, fun, never cringe

Benn is intentional about positioning.

When couples enquire, he asks:

• What kind of wedding are you having?
• Why did you choose a civil celebrant?
• Why did you choose me?

His ceremonies focus on being light-hearted, fun and funny (without being cringe), romantic, but never overly mushy and, most importantly, structured and paced.

For 100 guests, he believes 27 minutes is the perfect ceremony length.

“It’s like having a friend at the wedding.”

That balance of warmth and professionalism has helped him secure over 500 five-star reviews and regular Morning Sunrise appearances.

Premium positioning

Benn charges premium rates — and rarely faces pushback.

Why?

1. Full pricing transparency

“I never get price problems because I have a pricing page.”

2. Authority positioning

His website doesn’t just sell him — it educates couples. It includes:

• Extensive information on venues and vendors
• Real wedding images
• Reviews
• Planning insights

This builds trust before the first conversation.

“Out of 10, I’d say I’m a 7.5,” he says modestly — but his brand presentation clearly signals premium.

Customer experience: Speed wins

One of Benn’s biggest competitive advantages? Speed.

“I get compliments on speedy response.”

His system:

• Template responses saved on his phone.
• Customised replies if he knows the venue.
• If no response within 24 hours, he sends a text.
• Automated follow-up two days later.
• Multiple touchpoints, but never invasive.

“I don’t call people. I find it invasive.”

The average couple emails around 50 times throughout their journey. Benn embraces it.

“I want to give them the best service I can, like a friend.”

Operational excellence: Your business is in the palm of your hand

Benn runs almost his entire business from his phone. It’s here that he’s able to process invoices, focus on responses, make any edits to his socials, and running his own calendar.

He also claims to be an over-preparer. To every wedding, he brings it all:

• Two DJ sets
• Two microphones
• Spare laptop
• Emergency kit
• Sewing kit
• Sunscreen

Avoiding burnout

In his early years, Benn pushed hard. But longevity required boundaries.

“It took five years to get to a position where I could say no.”

Now, he focuses on avoiding burnout.

“If you’re not committed to it, it will be evident to customers.”

The power of community & referrals

“Easy Weddings is the best place I’ve advertised.” The celebrant says about his history with the platform. But what is it that keeps him using Easy Weddings as his only paid advertising?

• Professional and modern brand
• Supportive team
• Strong expos
• Community feel
• Development opportunities

“I feel like I could call the team personally. It doesn’t feel unapproachable.” Says Benn Stone. And that’s an important factor, no matter who has been looking after his account, or what position they hold in Easy Weddings, Benn has a point of contact who is always available to connect with, chat to, bounce ideas off.

He’s also a big believer in networking:

• Building friendships with videographers (who send reels)
• Venue referrals
• Genuine supplier recommendations

Mentorship

Benn actively mentors newer celebrants:

• Shares scripts
• Invites them to weddings
• Encourages early networking
• Builds industry friendships

He believes new celebrants need community — not just certificates.

“Start early. Make friends.”

Key Takeaways for Wedding Suppliers

1. Speed beats perfection.

Fast responses win bookings.

2. Transparency builds premium positioning.

Clear pricing removes friction.

3. Be more than your service.

Benn isn’t just a celebrant — he’s an experience.

4. Community drives growth.

Networking fuels referrals.

5. Preparation protects reputation.

Backups matter.

6. Energy management is essential.

Sustainable success requires boundaries.

What’s next for Benn Stone?

When asked what the next five years look like, Benn reflects on sustainability and growth — continuing to evolve, refine and mentor while maintaining quality.

Because for Benn Stone, being a celebrant wasn’t the plan.

It was an accident.

And 3,000 weddings later, it’s a masterclass in brand, positioning and modern wedding service delivery.

Are you ready to get your business in front of more Australian couples? Reach out to our team today!