Hi, I'm Andrew

Image of Andrew Matthews

Hello! I’m a Humanist Ceremonies funeral celebrant, trained and accredited by Humanists UK.

I create and lead memorable and meaningful non-religious funerals, celebrations of life, memorials, and ash ceremonies. Each humanist ceremony is unique and custom-made, and is an authentic reflection of the individual's life and values.

What I offer

The funeral celebrations I offer are deeply rooted in honouring the individuality and unique life stories of your loved one. As a dedicated social work lecturer and a passionate celebrant, I bring a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to working with people from all walks of life. My role allows me to provide heartfelt empathy and unwavering support during such sensitive times. Every life is unique, and so should be the funeral to say farewell. Humanist funerals incorporate personal stories, memories, and tributes into the ceremony, to make it a sincere and authentic goodbye. I can guide you on choices, if needed, and also suggest other elements to make the ceremony right for everyone involved.

About me

In addition to my academic and celebrant work, I proudly served in the Royal Air Force, where I had the privilege of living and working in a variety of countries, including Germany, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, the USA, and Canada, as well as several regions across the UK. These diverse experiences have enriched my understanding and appreciation of the many cultures that contribute to our shared humanity.

Since 2012, I have made my home in Penyffordd with my family, where I have developed a deep connection to the local community and its unique needs. This blend of professional expertise and personal experience allows me to create meaningful and personalised celebrations that truly reflect the essence of those we cherish.

Contact me

Please do contact me if you are looking for a professional celebrant to lead a non-religious funeral ceremony for your loved one. I’m here to support you during this challenging time and help you create the most fitting funeral for them. I’m happy to have an initial conversation to better explain what I do and how I work.

Image of Andrew Matthews

Andrew Matthews

Where I work

I am based in Penyffordd so I can cover the 3 local crematoria in Northop, Chester and Wrexham. I can travel further if needed and can also provide celebrations for burials and memorials. Additioanlly, I can support with pre-planning for a funeral.

Fees from...

I charge a small fee for celebrations to cover the time and resources needed to create a bespoke tribute to your loved one. Your funeral director includes the celebrant's fee as part of their service, so you don't have to worry about paying for different items. Cremations and Burials are £200. I offer a 50% discount for military veterans as a token of appreciation for their service. Finally, there's no charge for anyone under 18.

How to contact me
Email

andrew.matthews@humanistceremonies.org.uk

Phone

07904 992482

Website

humanists.uk/celebrants/andrew-matthews

HUMANIST CEREMONIES™ is the network of more than 550 celebrants, trained by national charity Humanists UK to a gold standard to provide memorable and meaningful humanist ceremonies to non-religious people. Operating throughout England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands, we deliver authentic, tailor-made and heartfelt ceremonies for life’s key moments. They are always inclusive and welcoming, regardless of the beliefs of those attending.

You can trust Humanist Ceremonies celebrants: We are DBS-checked, fully insured, and regularly peer reviewed for quality assurance. We are committed to a code of conduct, and have a transparent and robust complaints process in the rare case of a problem. We all pay a monthly fee to Humanists UK to further support the work of the charity, and are part of a regional network for like-minded celebrants for support and learning.

Humanist funerals

Humanist funerals, memorials and ash ceremonies are a fitting way to honour a unique life with warmth, sensitivity and meaning, but without reference to religion or an afterlife. They put the story of the person who has died at the heart of the ceremony, paying tribute to them and the legacy they leave, and provide an opportunity to bring people together, not just to share sadness but to celebrate a life lived.