Frequently Asked Questions

A funeral celebrant meets the family, listens to their memories and wishes, writes a personal ceremony, agrees it with the family and leads it on the day. I also work closely with the funeral director and anyone contributing music, readings or tributes.

No. I am an independent celebrant accredited by Humanists UK. I lead Humanist funerals, civil and mixed-belief ceremonies for families of all beliefs and backgrounds.

Yes. A civil or mixed-belief ceremony can include prayers, hymns, religious readings or cultural traditions when they are meaningful to the person or family. A specifically Humanist ceremony is normally non-religious.

An ashes ceremony is a personal gathering for scattering, burying or interring ashes. It may include memories, readings, music, quiet reflection and words of farewell, and can take place weeks, months or years after the funeral.

A funeral usually takes place soon after a death and may include a committal at a crematorium, cemetery or burial ground. A celebration of life can take place before or after the funeral, or as a separate memorial gathering, often with more freedom over the venue, timing and format.

My fee for a standard funeral ceremony is £240. This can be included within the funeral director's invoice or paid directly to me. Fees for celebrations of life, ashes ceremonies or additional travel are agreed clearly before any commitment is made.

I am based in Hardwicke, Gloucester and serve families across Gloucestershire, including Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, as well as Monmouthshire and the wider South West. See the full areas I serve page, or ask if your location is not listed.

Yes. I share the ceremony with the family beforehand so names, facts and the overall tone can be checked. Changes can then be made before the final version is agreed.

Yes. Family and friends may read a tribute, poem or reading, choose music, share memories or contribute in another way. I can also read their words on their behalf if speaking on the day feels too difficult.

You can contact me as soon as you know the likely date and venue. If a funeral director is arranging the ceremony, they can also check my availability. You can equally speak to me about planning ahead or a future celebration of life or ashes ceremony.