How do I work?

Firstly, we’ll chat ….

Whether you contact me through your funeral Director or directly, I will be in touch within 24 hours. I will introduce myself, check in on you and ask if we can arrange a time and a place to meet. We will talk about who else might be able to join us such as family members, friends or neighbours. Often the meeting will take place in your home, but we can arrange to meet at the Funeral Director’s premises or even a coffee shop, if you prefer.

Then we will meet ….

When we meet, we’ll chat about the family and important people to the person who has died. We will talk about how your loved one spent their time, including any hobbies and interests. You may wish to share stories, memories or information about key occasions which will help the service reflect the unique characteristics of the person you are remembering.

We’ll talk about the structure of the service. You may want friends, family members, colleagues or associates to say a poem or reading, or to share anecdotes and stories. Other times families prefer to leave the speaking to the celebrant. Either is fine.

If wanted, I can help you select poems, readings, songs, and music. If you would like hymns or prayers to be included, that is also possible. There is no right or wrong. It is entirely up to you and how you feel is the most fitting way to say goodbye.

Next I will ….

Within 48 hours of meeting you, I will e-mail you the first draft of the funeral eulogy. You will have an opportunity to review it and make as many amendments as you see fit. I will make changes in light of your comments and we will continue to exchange drafts of the eulogy until you feel it best reflects your loved one and what you want to say about them.

I will liaise with any people who will be speaking on the day and check they are happy with their role in the service.

I will ensure the Funeral Director is aware of music, poem choices and that these, along with the agreed running order for the service, are reflected accurately in the Order of Service, should you decide to have one.