Hi, I'm Vanessa

Image of Vanessa Corbishley

I have been conducting ceremonies in the in the Cambridgeshire area for almost 25 years and a result am often invited back to create and deliver ceremonies for families I have worked for previously. 

For me being a celebrant is all about getting to know my clients so that I can create a meaningful ceremony that is personal and really fitting for each individual occasion.

Throughout my time as a celebrant I have worked with people from all walks of life. This includes the great and the good but also people who have died in distressing circumstances, sometimes alone, with little or no family. Everyone has their unique story and it is important that every ceremony is conducted with compassion, warmth and integrity.

I can offer guidance on structuring a ceremony where families can have as much or as little input as they wish. We are no longer constrained by age old pre conceptions of what a funeral should be like. We are free to do whatever best reflects a persons life. You might be surprised to know there is often a fair bit of humour at Humanist ceremonies. People can be fondly remembered quirks and all, with any kind of music being acceptable, from a family member playing the trumpet to going out to Bat of Hell! More traditional alternatives are of course still available!

Spending time with clients to understand the exact requirements of each ceremony is a vital part of the work I do. This is usually done in their home where they feel most relaxed and comfortable. Having been accredited for over 20 years, my work has at times taken me in some interesting directions. For a year I was lucky enough to work alongside the High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire as her non-religious Chaplin and I have also served as a Humanist Chaplain to the Mayor of St Ives. I have been invited to open our town and district council meeting with a non religious ‘thought for the day’ as more inclusive alternative to religious prayers.

I have lived in St Ives since 2011 with my husband John. I spend my spare time doing yoga and enjoy being a member of the local choral society.

Thank you so much for the dignified and friendly way in which you conducted S's funeral. 

—

Vanessa, I watched the video of David’s funeral this afternoon , and am so pleased I did. Thank you again for making it a very special day, one I will never forget.

— Marjorie July 24

I  watched S's ceremony by webcam from Orlando. You delivered a wonderful celebration of life for her and I'm glad the family chose you.

— Louise July 24

Just wanted to say thank you for the send off you gave us all. Was amazing day Thanks again

— Liam July 24

Just a short note from me to thank you for the service on monday. It was perfect and just what mum would have wanted. The rest of the family thought it was a lovely service.

— Allan July 24

Image of Vanessa Corbishley

Vanessa Corbishley

Where I work

Cambridgeshire mostly but further afield if needed

Fees from...

£250

How to contact me
Email

vanessa.dennis@btinternet.com

Phone

07837 634872

Website

humanist.org.uk/vanessacorbishley

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.