Funeral ceremonies
Overview
When someone dies, there are many decisions to make - and planning the ceremony can feel overwhelming. My role is to make that part of the process feel calm, organised and supported.
Every ceremony begins with listening. I’ll spend time getting to know you and your family, learning about the person who has died - their life, their character, their values and the relationships that shaped them. From there, I’ll help you find the right words, readings and tone to create a ceremony that feels true to them and meaningful for you.
Some ceremonies are quiet and reflective. Others are full of laughter and shared stories. Many include a mix of both. My aim is always to create something personal and balanced - a farewell that feels right for everyone present.
I can also include elements that reflect particular beliefs or philosophies - such as readings or reflections - when these feel fitting. They can bring a sense of calm and connection, offering gentle insight without needing to follow any formal faith tradition.
Whether the ceremony takes place at a crematorium, cemetery, woodland burial ground or another location that holds meaning, I will lead with steadiness and care, ensuring every part flows smoothly and respectfully.
Together, we’ll create a ceremony that honours a life - exactly as it was lived.
Justin Standfield - Funeral Celebrant.pdf
What’s included
- A planning meeting before the ceremony, either in person or by Zoom
- A bespoke ceremony script with personalised readings and music
- A life-story tribute that reflects and honours their life
- Unlimited communication by phone or email throughout the process
- Unlimited script revisions so the ceremony feels exactly right
- Liaison with the funeral director to coordinate all ceremony details
- Travel within 20 miles of SO32 (Bishop’s Waltham)
Fees
- 30-minute slot at crematorium or graveside: £255
- 45-minute slot at crematorium or graveside: £255
- Double time slot at crematorium: £270
- Double funeral (two people): £355
- Interment or scattering of ashes, when I have led the funeral ceremony: £50
- Interment or scattering of ashes, when I have not led the funeral ceremony: £255
Travel
- Fees include travel within 20 miles of SO32 (Bishop’s Waltham). Additional mileage is charged at 45p per mile.
- Any alternative transport, such as ferry or train, is charged at cost.
Getting started
Families usually find me either through their chosen funeral director or by contacting me directly. However you reach out, the first step is always a simple conversation.
We’ll talk about what feels right for your loved one and for those who will attend. From there, I’ll guide you through each stage of planning the ceremony, keeping things clear and manageable.
You don’t need to have any firm ideas before we speak - many people don’t. My role is to listen, ask gentle questions and help you find the words, readings and tone that fit best. Together, we’ll create a ceremony that feels authentic, respectful and true to the person being remembered.
If you’d like to talk about arranging a ceremony, you can contact me here, or mention my name to your funeral director.