I believe that life’s most important chapters - whether a union, a farewell, or a journey - deserve to be narrated with depth, dignity, and a touch of performance
The Art of the Moment
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Matt Absalom
Celebrant and Tour Leader

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About me
For over 30 years, I have lived my life at the intersection of language, culture, and performance.
As a Senior Lecturer in Italian Studies at the University of Melbourne , I have spent my career understanding how words shape our reality. I know that a ceremony is not just a script to be read; it is a space to be held.
When I stand as your Civil Celebrant, I bring the gravitas of a public intellectual and the warmth of a storyteller. Whether it is the quiet solemnity of a funeral or the joyful chaos of a wedding, I ensure the moment is articulate, authentic and deeply human. My background in academia means I am comfortable commanding a room, ensuring your story is heard clearly, without ever overshadowing the occasion.
This passion for connection extends beyond the altar. As a curator of Boutique Cultural Tours, I invite you to see the world through the eyes of a linguist and local expert. My tours are born from a lifetime of research into Italian language and culture. We don’t just visit Italy; we fully engage with it - exploring the "why" behind the wine, the history behind the places, and the stories etched into the landscape.
Whether you need a steady hand to guide a ceremony or an expert guide to lead an adventure, I am here to help you mark the moments that matter.

