Funerals and Memorial Services

When someone dies it may well be the worst day of your life — at this time we are often confused, in shock and unsure of how best to honour our loved one.

 

I will guide you through the steps in designing a ceremony that befits your loved one and allows you to be fully present at the funeral. I will support you and your guests with compassion and understanding to ensure the service runs smoothly, creating a safe space for the grief you share.

Funerals are changing from a prescribed format to services that often include family and friends in various ways – I am very open to helping you do what is right for you!

As a funeral celebrant I am obligated to:

  • Stand strong on your behalf to best honour your loved one

  • Guide and support you as you navigate this challenging time

  • Understand your needs and sensitivities with empathy 

  • Work closely with the Funeral Director you have chosen

  • Offer you options for ceremony design

  • Assist you with the eulogy and any other readings, poems and speeches.

  • Assist in involving others in rituals and rites you may choose.

  • Respect any cultural requirements that you would like incorporated into the service.

  • Provide complete confidentiality and privacy.

The 3 Steps

  • Step 1 // Initial Consultation

    First, we check if I’m available for your chosen date.

    I will meet with you in person to get to know you and the person who has died. I will listen to your needs and concerns and provide help and support to craft the ceremony that you feel is best to say goodbye to your loved one.

    I will ask you about your loved one and assist you in incorporating your own readings, songs, music, and speeches if you so desire.

    Bring all of your questions. I am here to help!

  • Step 2 // Personalised Planning and Review

    I will provide you with the ceremony format for your approval and as an opportunity for you to make any changes.

    I will be available for you to ask further questions and seek advice if you need to.

  • Step 3 // The Day of The Service

    On the day of the service, I will be there to greet you and welcome your friends and loved ones warmly. I will guide and support you.

    I will have met with the Funeral Director and others involved in the service and we will have collaborated to deliver the service so you have peace of mind.

 

Resources

Funerals and Memorial Services FAQs

  • The funeral director that you choose is responsible for the legal and health aspects of taking care of a person after they have died.  A celebrant will liaise with the funeral director and will be the officiant for the service.

  • A funeral or memorial service is usually between 30 minutes to one hour. Often this depends on the location of the service and will be arranged by the funeral director.

  • Yes, a celebrant can conduct the service at the graveside, in a chapel or other venue that is approved by the funeral director. 

  • I think primarily that the wishes of the deceased person are met as well as those of the family. Apart from the health and legal aspects of caring for the person, a family can design whatever service they feel is best. Some elements to consider are creating a service that allows mourners to acknowledge the death, to be able to express their grief in a supportive and safe environment, to celebrate the life of the person and to share a testimony of their life and start their healing process.

  • This may be done by a member of the family, friends of the deceased or by the celebrant. As a celebrant, I can help you to create the eulogy. I am also available to deliver the eulogy if required.

  • A celebrant is not authorised to conduct a religious service. However, some elements that are consistent with the family’s beliefs may be included.