If you are visiting this page, it’s likely that you are planning a funeral, or thinking that you may have to do so in the near future. My condolences to you: it’s not something any of us really wants to have to do.
Humanist funerals are centred on the individual who has died, paying tribute to their unique life story, and honouring the imprint they leave on their community and the world around them. They are warm, welcoming, and often surprisingly uplifting, since we celebrate each human being and the irreplaceable person they have been. They are welcoming to everyone, regardless of belief or faith.
You may decide to have a ceremony that’s very large, with many participants, or one that’s small and intimate; a ceremony that’s very formal and traditional, or one that’s relaxed and untraditional. It’s entirely up to you. Regardless, as a humanist celebrant, my role is to guide you through all the choices you have to create the very best farewell for your person in a way that’s right for them, and right for you.
I’ll work with you sensitively and thoughtfully to create an authentic non-religious funeral, ash ceremony, memorial or celebration of life ceremony for your loved one. Together we’ll shape a fitting ceremony that reflects them, the individual person they have been, and their passions and interests. I’ll be able to suggest readings and poems, if you need me to, and am pretty good on all genres of music, with the exception of hip hop!
My background is in publishing and film & TV, having worked for Penguin Books, BBC Worldwide, Fox Kids, and Lego Media. With a degree in French literature, I understand the power of storytelling and words. I live in South London with my photographer husband (our two grown-up children have flown the nest – largely!), although historically my family are from the East End. I’ve lived in Australia, France, and Liverpool and, despite enjoying the rural life, I am a city girl at heart: I love museums and galleries, cinema and theatre, and – still occasionally – a live gig.
An experienced celebrant, trained and accredited by Humanists UK, I’ve led many bilingual ceremonies, including in French, Italian, Spanish, and Polish. My funerals are inclusive to everyone: although I won’t lead an act of worship, I understand that families are diverse , and I always make time within the ceremony for a silent prayer
Languages – French (fluent), German, Spanish (elementary), Japanese (basic).
