Love, Loss and the Power of Showing Up

For celebrant and community builder Bianca Dixon, life hasn’t just thrown her curveballs—it’s handed her grief, uncertainty and heartbreak in rapid succession. And yet, she continues to show up. With grace, grit, and generosity.

Bianca is a wedding celebrant and MC based in the Mackay and Whitsundays region, but her story goes far beyond ceremonies and vows. In 2021, her son was born at 26 weeks. He spent 94 days in hospital, first in NICU in Townsville, then in special care in Mackay. Just two weeks after coming home, Bianca's mum was hospitalised and passed away unexpectedly. Six months later, her brother was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

"Three days before our 2024 Elopement + Fundraiser, he passed away," Bianca shares. "It’s been incredibly hard, but one thing I’ve learned is that even when you don’t feel strong, you can still show up for others."

And she does.

Each year, Bianca hosts a special Elopement + Fundraiser Day, where she marries multiple couples in beautifully intimate ceremonies, all while raising funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities—the organisation that once supported her own family. What started as a "silly little idea" has turned into something deeply meaningful. In just two years, the initiative has raised over $25,000.

"We all donate our time," she says. "In 2023 we raised $10,000. In 2024, we raised over $15,000—even though I had just lost my brother. He was my biggest supporter, so I did it in his honour."

Bianca’s definition of empowerment is grounded in authenticity and community. "It’s not some superpower," she says. "It’s about holding space for others. Whether it’s at a wedding, in your community or with your friends—just reminding people they’re not alone."

She brings this same philosophy to her celebrant community. "There are over 36 celebrants in Mackay and the Whitsundays. We’re not in competition—we’re in connection. I organise coffee catchups, expo collaborations, and offer support wherever I can. Uplifting others means raising the standards together."

Bianca's resilience is quietly remarkable. She’s mastered the art of showing up with intention, even while navigating deep personal grief. During the 2024 fundraiser, she met with seven couples in the days leading up to their elopements—often taking Zoom calls from her brother’s hospital bathroom. "It felt like the duality of life. One moment I was grieving, the next I was holding space for love. That week tested me in every way—but with the help of my best friends, we made it happen."

Despite the enormous loss she's faced, Bianca continues to find hope in small moments. "My son randomly asks me, 'Mummy, are you happy?' And even on the hard days, that question reminds me to choose something I'm grateful for."

To her younger self, she offers this advice: "Stop trying to fit in. Just stop it. Life is better when you embrace who you truly are. No expectations. No moulds. Just you."

Bianca Dixon is a Resilient Rebel in every sense and was a finalist in this year’s JSP Women’s Awards in the Resilient Rebel category. Through her work, her heartbreak, and her unwavering ability to give back, she’s built a legacy of love—one ceremony, one conversation, one act of generosity at a time. Her story is a powerful reminder that resilience isn't always loud. Sometimes, it's simply showing up with heart—again and again.