ABOUT ME
Fulfilling wishes
I am a dedicated and fully trained member of the Fellowship of Professional Celebrants. Being a funeral celebrant is more of a calling than a job to me. I feel it a privilege to be able to make connections, listen to the lives and stories of others and work in partnership with families and individuals to support them at such a difficult and emotional time. I can offer advice on the structure of the funeral service and develop and write the content, but I will always be led by the families of the departed, fulfilling their wishes and the wishes of the departed is my ultimate goal.
INITIAL MEETING
Meet with the family so I can hear about the life lived and the legacy of the departed. Provide emotional support, understanding and empathy at all times.
PLANNING THE FUNERAL
Share ideas and give advice on the structure and content of the service. Ensure that any music, photos, readings are included as required.
LEADING THE CEREMONY
Draft the eulogy and check it with the family. Help with the order of service including liaison with other involved parties. Lead the funeral service on the day and/or internment of ashes or burial.
My background is in Higher Education. I walked away from a long and successful career with The Open University. I loved my job as it involved leading institutional change to support students to achieve their goals and motivations, supporting people to improve their lives and their careers. It was a hard decision to leave but I knew there was more I wanted to do but still within the context of supporting people. So, I made the bold choice to move out of my comfort zone and do something that made a real difference at one of the worst times of our lives - saying goodbye to our loved ones. I want to bring some comfort to grieving families while taking some of the strain away.
Like many people I’ve suffered a lot of loss in my life and understand how difficult it is with so much to think about and do at a time when you’re still trying to process the loss of a loved one. I will take some of the pressure away, be the person that doesn’t forget any of the details and take the lead to ensure every service goes to plan and fully meets the expectations of the family.