Funerals, celebrations of life | Sandi Poston Civil Celebrant

Celebrations of life
and funerals

…time to say thank you

Funeral

When a loved one dies it is an emotional time and I understand that it can be overwhelming and difficult to make any decisions. I am here to make it easier and offer as much or as little guidance as you wish in creating the very best ceremony for your loved one.

On occasions I have the fortune to meet with the dying person, giving chance for them to share their thoughts and wishes which can then be honoured and woven in. On other occasions my first contact will be with you as the recently bereaved. I will listen carefully to you and others and through these stories have the privilege of getting to know them so the ceremony can truly reflect and celebrate their life and specialness to you and others.

Photo by @reenstuartphotography. All rights reserved.

Location

There are many choices as to where a celebrant-led funeral can be held, it may be at your local chapel or cemetery. Alternatively, you may wish to hold a ceremony for your loved one at, for example, their favourite social club, a village hall, hotel or at your home, after which the coffin can be escorted to the burial site or cemetery of your choosing.

The ceremony

Ceremonies are a blend of words, perhaps readings and poetry, eulogies and tributes, specifically about the person who has died. I can script all of this and include any contributions others want to make. There can be music and silence, and there are opportunities for rituals that will unite those gathered if you wish. I have a wealth of ideas and am here to help guide you with the choices that are best for you. Together we will craft a ceremony brimming with love to mark the life they led.

Celebration of life, memorial,
and scattering of ashes

For those who have pre-arranged a direct cremation or burial there is the opportunity to design an event a few months later that is a celebration of life. This can be a joyous occasion or a quiet ritual, such as a tree planting, or a blending of both. As your celebrant I can help create this ceremony, it may be indoors or outside in nature. Whatever you choose I will ensure it truly reflects the character and spirit of your loved one. I will listen to you, share ideas and honour yours and their wishes.

Thinking ahead

Remember too at any point in your life you can plan your own funeral, this can be very liberating and a great reassurance to those who will be bereaved. I am more than happy to meet with you to help design your funeral, so it is ready when the time comes.

It’s always a privilege to hear people’s life stories.

Let’s talk

Carol W

Summing up the attributes and life lived with just the right turn of phrase which were entirely apt and entirely hers. She brought clarity and intent to the whole experience and above all, great personal warmth.

Carol W

Celebrations of life and funerals