My journey to becoming a celebrant started when I was asked to perform the role at my uncle’s funeral. It was a rewarding experience: both poignant and uplifting. In the following years, I was the celebrant at both my parents’ funerals before deciding that I wanted to offer this service to others. I understand how difficult it can be to organise a funeral while grieving, but also how incredibly important it is to have a ceremony to say goodbye.

For me, there is no greater privilege than to hear the stories and memories of your loved one and then put them together in a way that celebrates their life. ‘Good’ funerals give mourners a chance to remember and to say goodbye. Sometimes there is lots of laughter, sometimes lots of tears … most often there is some of both.

A non-religious funeral gives you the opportunity to create something unique, and I am here to help you craft a ceremony that is true to the person you have lost. Together, we can create a ceremony that reflects the personality of your loved one, that celebrates and commemorates their life, their interests and the relationships that were important to them.

Your wishes are at the heart of what I do, and no two ceremonies are the same. And ‘what I do’ will also be guided by you. I might be asked to write and deliver the whole ceremony on behalf of the family. Or, my role might be to help orchestrate on the day and link together the various contributors. You may have clear ideas for music or readings, or I can offer some suggestions. The ceremony might be at a crematorium or a burial ground, or it may be a memorial at another location. Whatever the situation, I will be led by you. My ceremonies are inclusive, and other religions are welcomed – I am happy to build in time for personal prayer and reflection if this will be important to some of those attending.

In the days preceding a funeral, it is common to dread its arrival. My aim is to provide a ceremony that you can look back on without fear or dread, and instead, feel comfort and satisfaction knowing you have honoured the life of the person that died.

Please contact me, by email or phone, using the details on the right.

Background

My professional background is as an editor and designer in book publishing, working across fiction, non-fiction and most recently, illustrated art books. My love of storytelling and language, in addition to the practical editing skills I’ve honed in my career, allow me to help you create a meaningful ceremony. When not working, my hobbies include music, astronomy and socialising with family and friends. I live in Walthamstow with my partner and two young sons.