Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

What is a celebrant and how are they different to a minister?

​

A celebrant can incorporate elements of religion into the ceremony if desired, but the focus of the proceedings is the person who has died. A celebrant-led ceremony can include hymns and prayers but if you would like a service which has religious content throughout, then a minister would be a more appropriate choice.

​

Can I book you directly?

​

Of course. You can get in touch with me anytime here.

 

Alternatively, you book me to lead a funeral ceremony via the funeral director.

​

What happens when I've booked you?

​

Where possible, it would be good for us to have a face to face meeting. We can then discuss your ideas for the ceremony and you can tell me all about your loved one. If we can't meet face-to-face, we can communicate via phone, email or video call. 

​

You may not have decided on all the content of the ceremony at this point - that's OK, you can update me as and when you are able.

​

I will then draft a script which I'll email over to you ahead of the service. You can let me know what any changes to be made and we can keep going back and forth until you are happy with everything. 

​

You will be aware of and will have approved everything that will be said on the day. 

​

I'd like to speak at the ceremony - is this OK?

​

No problem. If you are putting pen to paper ahead of time, it would be useful for me to have your words in advance. If on the day, you are unable to get up and speak, I can then read your words on your behalf. 

​

Can we have printed order of service sheets?

​

Yes. Your funeral director may be able to print these for you or you may want to create them yourself. I am also able to provide these. You may want to think about photos of your loved one to include on them. 

​

How can I personalise the ceremony?

​

There are man ways to personalise a ceremony including:

​

• Deciding upon a colour theme

• Displaying photos of your loved one

• Placing sentimental items on the coffin

• Playing favourite pieces of music

• Reading personal tributes from family and friends

• Toasting your loved one with their favourite tipple

​

We would like four pieces of music to be played - is that OK?

​

Yes. Time is the only restriction we are likely to have and I can advise on what we can fit into the time slot. If time is tight, then perhaps we can have shorter version of the songs, excerpts or a medley. Alternatively, you may want to play the songs at the gathering afterwards instead of the ceremony, but we can discuss all of this when we meet. 

​

Are dogs allowed to attend?

​

This depends entirely on the venue. It would be useful for you to contact the venue in advance to check that they are. If it's a yes, it's lovely to see furry friends at a ceremony!

​

​

​

​