Got questions about a celebrant-led ceremony or just curios, below are the most frequent questions I get asked. Hopefully, you will find what you are looking for, but if not simply “ask me” and I will get back to you with an answer.
What qualifies me as a Celebrant?
I completed my training as an Independent Celebrant through the International College of Professional Celebrants. This college, located within the Yorkshire Dales, was truly inspirational and made me passionate about crafting ceremonies that honour the life of loved ones.
I live with my partner Dave in Poulton-le-Fylde, which is situated on the Fylde Coast not far from the bustling seaside resort of Blackpool.
Whilst I pen my ceremonies from home, I will visit you and get to know your loved one through your memories. We will discuss how we will weave their personality into the service that will honour their beautiful life.
I’d be honoured to create and deliver the ceremony for your loved one.
Will I meet you before you deliver the ceremony on the day?
Absolutely, I will meet with you and your family to talk about your loved one’s life and all the milestones that you have shared together. Understanding the memories that make you smile and hearing all about them will help me to create the most perfect, heartfelt service which honours their life.
Will I see the service drafted to make sure I’m happy with it?
Yes, the service is written just for you, based on what we discussed. Not only do you see it, you approve it. I will re-draft the service as many times as I need to until you are completely happy with it because I want it to be perfect for you.
I have a large family can they all speak at the service?
A typical service lasts for approximately 40 minutes, which means unfortunately not all family members will be able to deliver a tribute during the service. If you are having a gathering after the service I would perhaps suggest you can ask them to speak there.
If you are having a Celebration of Life then we can be more flexible on timings as we are not limited to 40 minutes in the crematorium.
Can I play any type of music during the service?
While there are no strictly enforced legal rules, crematorium staff may ask you to reconsider offensive or explicit lyrics out of respect for other mourners.
How many songs can I play during the service?
Typically, 3 songs are played at a funeral service, often arranged as one at the beginning, one for reflection in the middle, and one at the end. The number is flexible depending on the time allocated for the service.
Can I scatter my loved one’s ashes anywhere?
You cannot scatter ashes anywhere without permission. While it is legal to scatter ashes in the UK, you must generally get consent from the landowner for private land, National Trust sites, or public spaces like parks. You can scatter them in your own garden or in water (following Environment Agency guidelines).
