Strange though it may sound, a funeral can be a truly uplifting occasion. Increasing numbers of people are turning to celebrants like me to craft a personalised ceremony that captures the unique essence of an individual in a way that makes the occasion, as well as the person, beautifully memorable.
However, funerals are still generally a taboo subject until we lose a loved one. Then we have to make the arrangements under pressure of time and coping with grief as well as decision-making.
It doesn't have to be like that.
In a life-affirming talk that has surprises, anecdotes, and more humour than you might expect, I take the fear out of looking ahead and considering our own, or a loved one's funeral. People tell me that they came to the talk with trepidation but left feeling inspired and thinking about how they'd like to be remembered. Others let me know that my talk enabled them to have what they'd thought would be impossible conversations with their families.
I take care that the talk acknowledges the sensitive nature of the topic, recognising that at least some in the audience have faced a bereavement.
NB: Please note that this talk is NOT about financial funeral planning and there is no sales pitch of any kind.
Views: 975 | Enquiries: 4I’m now an independent wedding, naming and funeral celebrant but I’ve enjoyed many other amazing jobs; as a radio journalist, a published author, a lecturer, a hypnotherapist, an events organiser, a public relations consultant and, for a few halcyon but back-breaking weeks in my early twenties, a grape-picker. I’ve spent much of my working life in front of an audience of one kind or another, sharing my knowledge and enthusiasms. Both I and my talks are flexible and adaptable to lots of different situations and groups. Take your pick from several talks, which are either based on my celebrancy work, or on my personal interests of history and travel.
ABOUT MY TALKS... I normally speak for up to an hour (including questions) but I’m happy to adapt according to your group. All talks have accompanying images. These are essential for ‘The Walls Have Tongues – Graffiti in Medieval Churches’ but other talks can be given without a presentation so are suitable for groups of people with vision impairment or where a visual presentation is not possible. I can bring my own laptop and projector if you could provide a screen or blank wall. If you need someone at short notice – I’ll always do my best to help.
FEE: My fee is £90.00 for all face-to-face talks; £65 for online. Once more than 20 miles from my home postcode, I may charge a nominal amount towards transport but I’m happy to travel, particularly if you happen to be somewhere that gives me a good excuse to spend time in a part of the country I’ve never visited before! The best thing is to get in touch and ask.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY:
'We both learned so much, there were definitely some 'Wow' moments too!' Talk attendees, Sheerness
'Thank you very much indeed for your terrific talk last night. I thoroughly enjoyed it and it was obvious that your audience felt the same'. Booking secretary, Goudhurst
‘You boosted my reputation as a booking secretary’. Booking secretary, Guildford
'I felt this was a risky subject for our members but it certainly paid off, with an excellent response all round'. Booking secretary, Rochester
'We found it fascinating and could have listened to more'. Talk attendees, Sittingbourne
'As I'm sure you could tell, your talk was much appreciated by our members and has given them much food for thought.' Booking secretary, Reigate
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