Losing a loved one is difficult and it can seem overwhelming to plan a service, especially when you are grieving. I am very experienced and here to help. Whether your choice is a more traditional ceremony in a crematorium or graveside, or a ceremony at a venue of your choice after a direct cremation, I will listen, guide you through this difficult time, and work with you to create a service that celebrates their life.
What to expect
1: A meeting
We will talk about the things that make your loved one special, their life and achievements and also discuss music choices and other particulars.
A funeral service in a crematorium is usually 20 minutes long, while a ceremony after a direct cremation can be longer. Both can include a slide show and personal tributes from family or friends.
I like to keep in touch with families throughout the process.
2: Copy of the Service
I'll send you a draft of the service to ensure the service will be running as expected.
I usually finalise the script a couple of weeks before the ceremony to give you time to gather your thoughts. This also gives funeral staff time to order music choices, print out your Order Of Service and organise any thing else that is needed.
I will always be available during this time for any reassurance
3: The Service
I arrive at least 30 mins before your service starts, so I can be at hand if you or your family need me (I usually have a supply of extra tissues, too).
After the service has taken place, if you would like me to send you a printed copy of the entire service, it would be my pleasure. Some families like to take time to read at a later date, and take in what was said on the day of the funeral. Please let me know if this is required.
Other celebration of life services
Interment/Ashes Scatter
You may wish to include a brief interment ceremony. In the case of a burial, this may be on the same day as the service, and in the case of ashes, this might take place after and in a different location to the crematorium. If you would like me to do this for you, don't hesitate to ask... We will have a chat about what you would like to include.
Life Celebration After A Direct Cremation
While it is traditional to conduct our ceremonies in a crematorium, it is becoming increasingly popular to opt for a ‘direct cremation’, which basically means the body is committed without a service attached, giving you the opportunity to hold a 'celebration of life' ceremony at a place closer to your heart.
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A ceremony is important to give you a chance to grieve your loved one's passing. It also offers the chance to celebrate their life in a less 'formal' way at a place of your choosing, which might be a favourite beach, woodland, garden or special venue (with the owner's permission). You can personalise your ceremony with a toast, play a short film, or even incorporate a performance from a group connected to your loved one (for example, they may have been a member of a choir...). In a less formal setting, mourners may feel more comfortable sharing their special memories and we can create a circle of love to do this if you wish. You will all be fully supported and I have plenty of inspirational ideas to help you celebrate their life in the way you choose. You may wish to include the ashes and other personal items in the service.
Ceremonies For A Beloved Animal Companion
Of course, our furry friends are more than just a pet, they are our constant companions, and they find a home in our hearts. Saying goodbye to a beloved friend is always difficult, and I would be honoured to help you create a fitting tribute.