People are the focus of a humanist ceremony and it’s important that a funeral honours the life of the person who has died in a realistic and affirming way.

1. When you first contact me I’ll ask you some questions about the person who has died. I’ll provide you with a list of questions and prompts for you to tell me a little more – usually by email at this stage.
2. I’ll arrange to meet you and any others who want to be involved in planning the ceremony. This could be in your home or another place you feel is suitable. It could be online – it’s entirely up to you. The meeting is usually 60-90 minutes and no more than two hours.
3. At the meeting we’ll focus on the life story of the person who’s died and on creating the kind of funeral ceremony you’d like. I’ll ask you some questions, and we’ll chat about your responses to the questions I previously sent you. There are no rules, you can be as creative as you like. We’ll talk about music, readings, poems and if anyone else would like to speak. I’ll be led by you and your suggestions whilst at the same time using my experience and knowledge to guide you.
4. By the end of the meeting I aim to know enough about the person who’s died to enable me to write a meaningful, dignified and personal funeral ceremony, and I’ll outline my initial thoughts on the structure of the ceremony.
5. Following the meeting I’ll liaise with any others who want to speak during the ceremony and support them in writing their tribute for inclusion in the ceremony.
6. I’ll work closely with your Funeral Director so I know what you’ve agreed with them about what will happen on the day.
7. I’ll send you a draft funeral script to approve. You can make as many amendments as you’d like.
8. On the day of the funeral I’ll be at the venue early so I can ensure that everything we’ve agreed is in place.
9. I’ll be waiting for you at the funeral venue to greet you when you arrive and deliver the funeral ceremony.
10. After the ceremony I’ll give you a presentation copy of the funeral script.

Fees:

From £240.

These are usually paid as part of the Funeral Directors costs (under disbursements). Alternatively you can pay me directly.