My Celebrancy Skills

I am experienced in working with families when they are planning the ceremony for a loved one. I am somebody that:

• You can feel comfortable talking to
• Is keen to listen to you and carry out your wishes
• Understands the ways in which newly bereaved people can experience the shock and pain of death
• Prompts you to think about what you want said about your loved one
• Can construct a ceremony script which is factually correct; and which reflects the life of your loved one with integrity and accuracy
• Can speak about your loved one calmly, audibly and with dignity
• Conducts the funeral ceremony so that 'words' from friends or family members are integral parts of the ceremony, rather than 'add-ons'
• Manages the ceremony – for a cremation, a burial, the scattering of ashes or the memorial – so that every aspect of the ceremony is as you want it to be

When meeting with you, I explain what is involved and then plan the ceremony with you. Favourite readings and music can be incorporated and, for those who wish it, suitable hymns or prayers can be chosen. I want to learn about the person who has died and by giving me information you are helping me to construct a 'mental picture' of your loved one. It is with this 'mental picture' that I craft the script for the ceremony. It takes me several hours to script the tribute which captures the essence of the person's life, attributes and qualities.

Usually within 24 hours of the meeting, I provide you with a draft ceremony script, including the tributes, and will then seek your final approval. Nothing will be said at the funeral which has not been approved. On the day, the tribute, or parts of it, can be delivered by me, a family member or a friend.