A celebrant works with you to create and lead a ceremony that honours the life of the person who has died. This includes meeting with you (in person or online), crafting a personalised service, and guiding everyone gently through the ceremony on the day.
What if we don’t know what we want yet?
That’s completely normal. Grief makes it hard to make decisions. In our meeting, I’ll ask gentle questions to help you reflect on what felt important in the person’s life and what would feel right in saying goodbye. You don’t have to have it all figured out beforehand.
Can we include religious elements in the ceremony?
Yes, if you’d like to. I can include hymns, prayers, or readings that feel meaningful to the family - or we can keep things completely non-religious. The ceremony is shaped around your wishes, not mine.
What if several family members want to speak?
We can certainly make space for that. I’ll help structure the ceremony so everyone has time to contribute without feeling rushed. If someone is unsure whether they’ll manage to speak on the day, we can plan for me to step in and read for them if needed.
Can we include humour or personal stories?
Absolutely. Joy, laughter, tenderness and complexity all belong in a funeral if they reflect the person’s life. Some of the most memorable moments in ceremonies come from genuine, heartfelt stories that make people smile.
How long does a funeral ceremony last?
Most crematoriums work within a window of around 30–45 minutes, but the ceremony itself is often around 20–30 minutes. Even within these timeframes, it’s possible to create something full, honest and meaningful. Burials can often be a little more flexible.
Do we have to meet in person?
Not at all. Many families live across different places, and we can hold our conversation via Zoom or over the phone if that’s easier. This doesn’t change the level of care - I take the same time to listen and understand your loved one’s story, whatever the format.
Do you keep a copy of the ceremony afterwards?
Yes, I do - and I’ll happily share a printed or digital copy with you. Some families tell me this becomes a comforting keepsake, something to read quietly later or to send to people who couldn’t attend.
Which geographical areas do you cover?
I work across Southampton, Winchester, Portsmouth, Fareham and Eastleigh (travel up to 20 mile radius is included, beyond that mileage is charged at 45p per mile).
I am happy to work on the Isle of Wight if additional costs (eg. ferry fare, parking fee) are covered.
Are you insured and professionally trained?
Yes. I’m fully insured, have undertaken professional celebrancy training and hold a Certificate of Distinction in Funeral Celebrancy. I’m a member of the Academy of Professional Celebrants and I also have years of public speaking experience in sensitive contexts. You can trust that I will lead the ceremony with steadiness, respect and care.
How do we book you?
You can ask your funeral director to connect with me on your behalf or you can contact me directly yourself. Once we’ve been in touch, I’ll guide you gently through the process - there’s no pressure, just support and clarity.