If you're considering a Humanist funeral ceremony for your loved one, family member or friend, please feel free to reach out and I'll talk you through what to expect and will answer any questions you may have.
Why choose a Humanist ceremony?
A Humanist ceremony puts the person at the centre of the funeral. It's an opportunity to personalise their send off and ensure that the ceremony really encapsulates who they were and what they meant to people, without the inclusion of religious elements.
I first learned about Humanism when I was looking for a celebrant for my dad's funeral nearly 5 years ago. I was lucky enough to be introduced to the brilliant network of Humanists UK celebrants and the process of talking to our celebrant about my dad and taking part in the creation of his ceremony was an incredibly healing process at a very difficult time.
My dad was a complex person, as most of us are. He died during the pandemic after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson's, which he was diagnosed with in his mid-50s. He and his care had been at the centre of my world for years and his death hit me hard. I couldn't imagine how anybody would be able to write a tribute that did him justice after an hour-long Zoom meeting.
When I first read the draft ceremony, I was delighted to find that our celebrant had clearly understood him and what he meant to us. And not just the good bits. She had managed to strike the perfect balance between celebrating him, acknowledging the challenges we'd faced with him and cementing the legacy he left behind. Her delivery of the ceremony was professional, warm, respectful and inclusive.
It was an amazing skill. I feel honoured to be able to deliver that experience for others and do what I can to help people process death and the grief that comes with it.
I have experience with cremations, natural burials and celebrations of life; having delivered ceremonies to congregations of up to 260 guests. My background in event management means I can think on my feet, problem-solve calmly; and communicate clearly and professionally.
I pride myself on being able adapt to different working styles and I have a lot of respect for the teams of funeral directors who've honed their craft over the years. More than anything, the reason I chose to pursue a career as a funeral celebrant is because I care about people. Being trusted to tell someone's story is a total privilege.
