Registered with and trained by the
International College of Professional Celebrants
A simple description would be that a funeral celebrant is a qualified person, usually from a non-clergy background, who officiates funeral services. Funeral celebrants typically help organise and conduct funerals, supporting the bereaved family every step of the way with the aim of celebrating the life of the person who has died.
However this description only scratches the surface of what we do.
As a celebrant it is my job to listen and build a trusting relationship with the next of kin and rest of the family. Over a short period of time I spend time listening carefully to my clients as they share memories of their loved one as well as their needs and wishes. I then build a service which reflect these insights and that the family members are happy with and I share this with the Funeral director. At the service itself it is my role to work in close proximity with the Funeral director to deliver a ceremony that truly reflects the loved on who has died.
I am honoured to be a celebrant who recognises the need to be sympathetic, empathetic and professional at all times. As a previous school leader I have the skills to support families through difficult times where there may sometimes be conflict. I remain neutral and deliver a service that embraces the loved ones beliefs and values and those of the deceased.
I am able to remain calm and supportive for families when they are feeling high emotions and grief.
I have pastoral responsibilities, helping bereaved families get the right help if they need it by signposting them to a wide variety of organisations, dependent upon the needs.
As a celebrant, I am expected to write a eulogy with confidence. I am often asked to find poems, songs and prayers that will describe the sentiments of the bereaved and represent the personality and interests of those who are being remembered.
I collaborate with Funeral Directors, Crematorium staff and venues to ensure that everyone understands what the family require and to ensure that our respective services run seamlessly.
I pride myself on providing a service which creates a bespoke response that helps others say goodbye to someone they have loved.