Congratulations Lovers!

Meet Your Celebrant

Outdoor wedding ceremony officiated by Ollie, Tie the Knot Christchurch
Celebrant Ollie van der Pol waiting for a wedding ceremony to begin at Mona Vale Gardens.

Hi, I’m Ollie.

As a Canterbury-based celebrant and professional third wheel (the good kind!), I’m here to help you Tie the Knot with a whole lot of love, laughter, and just the right amount of sparkle ✨

If you’re looking for a celebrant who will get to know you properly, tell your story well and make the whole process feel easy, hello.

This is me.

When I’m not helping couples say “I do,” you’ll probably find me running or biking up a hill somewhere before breakfast with my dog, Maggie (equal parts energiser and endorphin-chaser). I bring that same upbeat energy and enthusiasm to your big day!

Years of speech and drama taught me how to stand in front of a crowd and hold their attention. But the part I really love is making people feel comfortable, included and completely at ease.

And while I bring plenty of energy to a wedding day, I’m also pretty big on being organised. I’ll keep track of the details, the paperwork, the timings and all the things you probably don’t want to think about - so you can get on with enjoying being engaged and getting married.

I’ll help make your day perfect.

I don't believe your ceremony should sound like everyone else's. I want to know the real stuff - how you met, what makes you laugh, the things you love about each other (and the quirks!), the ridiculous stories, the people who matter most and all those little details that make your relationship yours.

Then I’ll turn it all into a ceremony that sounds like you.
Maybe that's warm and heartfelt. Maybe it's full of laughs. Maybe it's short and sweet. Maybe it's a little bit unexpected.

There’s no rules!

And there’s quite a bit that happens before I stand up with the microphone. I’ll guide you through the planning, the legal bits, the vows, the ceremony structure and all the little details along the way - with clear guidance, thoughtful planning, and zero fuss.

Because I think the lead-up matters just as much as the day itself. You should actually enjoy this bit too.

I’m not over-the-top lovey-dovey, but I do love a happy moment - and helping people feel comfortable and cared for (without the cringe).

Over the years, I’ve been the go-to person for hosting events, writing speeches, and holding it together in moments that matter. Becoming a celebrant just made sense. It brings together everything I love: people, stories, words, connection, a little bit of organised chaos and creating something meaningful.

And yes, a little sparkle on top!

Let’s meet.

So, that’s me. If you think we might be a good fit, let's have a chat - I’m always up for a strong flat white (or wine!).
Tell me about you two, what you're planning, what you're excited about and what you absolutely don't want your ceremony to be. We’ll keep it relaxed, real, add a bit of shine - and have a good laugh along the way!

Ollie x

Making the right decision for your day

Bride happily signing wedding documents with celebrant Ollie in Christchurch
Celebrant Ollie van der Pol with a couple during their legal vows at their wedding in Methven.
Celebrant Ollie van der Pol with her sister on her wedding day at Soldiers Memorial Hall.