For young mum-of-three, Zoe McCloy, starting her own business wasn’t just about launching a career. It was about finding purpose, flexibility, and the confidence to build a future on her terms.
Living on the Mid North Coast of NSW, Zoe had spent years working in childcare before she felt the pull toward something different. Inspired after being involved in a close friend’s wedding, she discovered her passion for becoming a marriage celebrant.
“I was looking for a new career direction that I could pour my heart and soul into,” Zoe shared. “At the same time, I needed something that gave me flexibility around raising my young family.”
Like many parents considering self-employment, Zoe’s biggest hurdle was confidence.
“Before joining the SEA program, I struggled to justify the time and expense of starting a business. I needed a plan, but I didn’t know where to start.”
That’s where VERTO’s Self-Employment Assistance program came in. Recommended by a friend, Zoe joined the Exploring Self-Employment workshop in early 2025, then enrolled in the 12-month Coaching program in March. This step gave her the structure, mentoring, and practical tools she needed to turn her dream into reality.
“The program helped me see my business as an investment into my future happiness and financial stability,” Zoe explained. “It stepped me through how to write a business plan, and with the coaching sessions I always had someone in my corner to keep me moving forward.”
Working alongside VERTO’s Self-Employment Facilitator, Kahrina Richardson, Zoe developed a business plan, built her own website, learned about financial forecasting, and gained the confidence to put herself out there.
“Having Kahrina as my coach has been amazing. She’s always calm, reassuring, and down-to-earth. Knowing she’s just a phone call away when things get crazy has made all the difference.”
Zoe admits that balance is still something she works on every day, but self-employment has given her the flexibility she was looking for.
“I am blessed to be surrounded by a supportive husband, family and friends. Balance is not always achieved, but being able to set my own hours gives me a real sense of control.”
For Kahrina, Zoe’s progress has been inspiring. “Zoe is a wonderful example of a young mum carving out a career on her own terms. She’s bubbly, motivated, and her energy shines through in everything she does. Watching her confidence grow as she embraces life as a heart-centred businesswoman, has been an absolute privilege,” she said.
Since beginning her celebrant journey, Zoe has officiated weddings filled with love and joy, each one reinforcing her passion for the role.
“Every ceremony is so different, but the feeling of being part of such a special day is incredible. When couples send a thank-you message the next day, it makes me feel so grateful that this is my work.”
Looking ahead, Zoe has big dreams. “I’d love to marry loved-up legends all over Australia!” she laughed.
For other parents thinking about taking the leap into self-employment, Zoe’s advice is simple: “There will never feel like the right time. It’s just a matter of finding what you love and starting. Just start.”
With determination and the support of VERTO’s Self-Employment Assistance program, Zoe has created a business that fits around her family and her dreams. She’s found the freedom to build a future while doing something she truly loves.
For more information about the Self-Employment Assistance program, contact VERTO on 1300 483 786 or visit: www.verto.org.au/our-services/self-employment-assistance.
To learn more about Zoe’s work as a celebrant and how she supports couples on their special day, visit www.zoemccloymarriagecelebrant.com.au or connect with her on Facebook at Zoe McCloy Marriage Celebrant and Instagram @zoe_mccloy_marriage_celebrant.
