Working Together
When someone dies, we only get one chance to say goodbye…
When faced with death, especially that of a close family member or friend you can often feel overwhelmed, unprepared, uninformed, shocked and extremely vulnerable. You will likely be meeting with me for the first time whilst experiencing some of the most painful emotions and at this delicate time, my aim is to make the task of making the ceremony arrangements as easy and worry-free as possible, whatever the circumstances.
I will do this with care and sensitivity by listening to your wishes and helping you explore the warmer emotions of love, and positivity relating to thanks and celebration for a life lived whilst balancing the feelings of loss, grief and sadness that will also be present.
Whether you are working with a funeral director or contacting me directly – for example if your person had a Pure Cremation plan – the ceremony we create together will be as unique as they were, and every detail will be created to celebrate the important things that were so special about them. A ceremony that reflects your beliefs and wishes as well as the beliefs and wishes of the person who has died can play a vital part in the natural grieving process.
Connecting
I will call you first to arrange an initial discussion so that we can explore what kind of service you want for your loved one. This can either be in person, at your home or another venue of your choice, or, if you prefer we can talk over the phone or via video link. Having other relatives or friends with you to offer support and/or help you make decisions can also be helpful.
Listening
Together, in a relaxed and informal manner, we will discuss in your time, and at your pace, the qualities that made your loved one so unique and special. I will listen to your memories and we can talk about how you would like to say your final farewell so we will discuss cultures, traditions and beliefs as well as suitable music, songs, readings, poems or anything else that you would like to include.
Creating
After interpreting your requirements I will then craft the ceremony in a personalised and meaningful way. I will also write the eulogy or if you prefer, guide you to write your own. Using my creative writing skills I will tell the story in a positive and uplifting way whilst acknowledging the sadness and grief too. If there are other people who would like to participate on the day, I will also liaise with them to ensure they are fully included.
Approving
The information we discussed will be used to draft a service, which I will email to you for review. I will make any required changes or updates until you are absolutely satisfied with my interpretation and completely happy with the final version. Once all the elements of the service are agreed, I will liaise with your funeral arranger as necessary.
Delivering
On the day, I will lead and conduct the ceremony for your loved one with warmth, sensitivity and dignity. I will also be ready to assist family members or friends who wish to speak during the ceremony should they change their mind at the last minute or need me to take over if they feel overwhelmed. Following the service, I will provide you with a printed copy of the eulogy in a presentation folder for you to keep and treasure.
Closing
If you are planning to inter or scatter the ashes of your loved one or organise a memorial event at a later date, I will be available to help you then too. The event can be exactly what you want it to be, perhaps including songs, poems or a reading as well as the sharing of memories. What is most important is for your loved one to get the send off they rightly deserve and for those present to feel a sense of closure.
