How can a Celebrant help?

As a trained funeral celebrant, I will do everything I can to support you in giving your loved one the best possible ceremony.  At every stage, I will work closely with you, and do all I can to make this funeral exactly as you and your family wish.

Just as every person is individual; so is every funeral ceremony.  It is important to me, as a funeral celebrant, to plan a fitting ceremony for your loved one and ensure that it is highly personalised to reflect your wishes.

Time to Listen

My first step is usually to arrange a face-to-face meeting with you - and anyone else you would like to be there - in your home or wherever you prefer, at a time that suits you. 

I will listen carefully to your ideas and wishes, as well as any wishes that your loved one may have expressed about their funeral. I can also offer you support, guidance and suggestions as we plan the ceremony together.  Equally importantly, I will want to find out as much as I can about your loved one, their life and unique qualities, in preparation for writing their tribute or life story. 

Creating the Tribute

After our meeting, I will begin the process of creating the ceremony and personal tribute based upon everything that you have told me about your loved one. If need be, I can gather more information from other relatives and friends. 

When this is finished, I’ll send you a draft to check through. This is gives you the opportunity to correct any mistakes, add anything further, and make sure it has the right feel. I am always happy to make any additions or changes you want, right up to the day before the service. 

If you, or other family members and friends want to write your own tributes, I encourage you to do this – even if you’re not sure whether you’ll be able to read it yourself on the day. I can always read on your behalf if you wish. 

Planning the Ceremony

Just as every person is individual; so is every funeral ceremony.  It is important to me, as a funeral celebrant, to plan a fitting ceremony for your loved one and ensure that it is highly personalised to reflect your wishes.

The ceremony will usually include special tributes, music and poems or readings. A time for quiet reflection and a time for friends and family to say goodbye. This is known as the ‘committal’.   If you wish, prayers or hymns from any tradition may be included. There is nothing you have to include, and we can discuss anything you want in the service. 

Choosing Music, Poems and Readings

Most families choose three or four pieces of music. These may include entrance music, music for the committal or reflection and music to exit the chapel.  Occasionally, I am asked to help with choosing music for the ceremony, which I’m always glad to do. Live music can be arranged on request. 

Family members may want to read a poem or special reading, or simply choose something for me to read. Equally, I will be happy to take time to find an original reading especially for your loved one – perhaps relating to their work or interests, or quoting from a favourite author, or a book they especially enjoyed.

Making it Special

I want every funeral that I conduct to feel just right – right for you and right for your loved one. I will take my lead from you in creating the right atmosphere for the ceremony.  Some people want a very solemn funeral; whereas others may prefer it to be a more uplifting occasion - a celebration of their loved one’s life. And others may want a mixture of the two.  There are many different ways to make a funeral special.

On the Day

I will make sure that everyone feels welcome, and understands exactly what to expect.  Whether it be a non-religious funeral or contain some religious elements (e.g. prayers and hymns), the ceremony will be respectful, dignified and sensitively conducted.   I will do all I can to make sure the service is memorable for all the right reasons. 

After the Funeral

I like to produce a beautiful copy of the full funeral script for my families that include everything that was said and done.    This is for you to keep. 

If you would like your loved one to have a personalised, celebrant-led ‘send off’, please get in touch with me.