It’s hard know where to start when you are planning a heartfelt goodbye to someone who you loved. So let me help.
Like so many people, I have suffered loss myself and have wondered what on earth life would look like without my loved one.
One of the reasons I became a Celebrant was the undeniable sense of privilege I continue to feel whenever I am asked to lead a service for a family. It really is just as important to me as it is to you – putting myself in your shoes, looking at things through the eyes of grief and heartbreak – all these things are vital in creating that final farewell.
The content of a service that truly represents someone is so important. A celebrant-led funeral service can have religious content, or none – whatever you need and are comfortable with. Music choices, readings and poems, can all be incorporated, and often really paint the picture of a life.
It has famously been said that grief is a journey with no destination. It is a path that is so difficult to walk, and so often for people, the funeral is a part they dread.
If this is the path you are on right now, get in touch and I will walk beside you for a while, and we will navigate things together. Your funeral director can allocate you a Celebrant, but if you wish to request me, you may of course do just that. Such requests are usually honoured.
A Funeral Service with me includes the following:
• A Home or Funeral Home visit with you to talk about your ceremony wishes. This will usually take between one and a half to two hours. I will contact you soon after you have spoken to the Funeral Director to arrange a convenient time for this meeting.
• Planning the service alongside you. Each service is individual and bespoke for each family and I will work with you and your wishes for the service.
• I will write a Eulogy or give advice on writing your own, if required. If I write it, a draft will be sent to you for approval, and amendments will be made accordingly.
• I will source readings, poems and music, if required. This is often a very personal choice, but I am happy to advise on this. You may also opt for prayers and hymns.
• I will create and send the Order of Service and music information promptly to the Funeral Director.
• I will lead the service on the day. I will arrive at least 45 minutes before the ceremony.
• I will send a copy of the full service to you. This can also be sent by pdf, if required, to enable you to make further copies.
• You can contact me throughout the process to make changes, to give advice on the service, or ask questions.
• I am also available for memorial services, interments and celebration of life gatherings.
My prices for 2025 are: £220 for a single-slot ceremony, £330 for a double-slot ceremony.
Costs include mileage up to 30 miles from my address near Colchester. Additional mileage is charged at 45p per mile.
Sunbeam-Celebrancy 