What is the Difference between an Independent Funeral Celebrant and a Humanist Celebrant?
There is a common misconception that a non-religious funeral is by definition a humanist funeral, but there’s a bit more to it than that. Humanist celebrants and independent celebrants both believe in life-centred funerals, but, unlike an independent celebrant, humanist celebrants usually won’t include any mention of religion – such as hymns, prayers, readings, or poems – in a service.
Moreover, humanists do not believe in any kind of afterlife: they firmly believe death is the end, which is why religious objects and iconography would not form part of a humanist ceremony.
An independent funeral celebrant embraces all philosophies and beliefs and will always be happy to construct a service which will incorporate as much or as little religious content or spirituality as is desired in order to honour the individual beliefs of the deceased and those of their family.
Do You Work with Any Funeral Director?
Yes - as an independent funeral celebrant, I am not affiliated with any one funeral director.
How Do We Book You?
When you choose my services, you may book me directly, or via your funeral director. Either way, we will arrange a meeting and go from there.
Can You Visit Me At My Home?
Absolutely. In my opinion, it is always better to meet face to face, unless it is inconvenient to you or if you live far from London.
Can You Provide Me with a Copy of the Funeral Service Script?
Of course, I am very happy to provide copies of the funeral service script on request. All you have to do is let me know when we meet if this is something that you would like to have as a memento or as a keepsake.
Can You Offer Advice on How to Prepare an Order of Service?
Yes. Once we have discussed the headings that you want, I will put a template together and email it to you as well as sending a copy to the funeral director so that they are kept up to date with all decisions that are taken.
Can I Contact You to Discuss Any Changes I May Want to Make?
Of course. I am happy to make whatever changes you require any time up to 24 hours before the service.
What Does Your All-Inclusive Service Provide?
Starting with an initial meeting, my all-inclusive service includes full guidance and advice on choosing poems, readings, and music. When you choose my services, I will deliver a personal and meaningful service of farewell that is tailored to your specific requirements. Upon request, I will also create a tailormade order of service for you and your fellow mourners.
What Are Your Fees?
£230 for a funeral or memorial service (up to 45 minutes). An additional £35 will be charged for a double slot where requested. An extra £100 will be charged for services on a Saturday. An extra £150 will be charged for services on a Sunday.
Travel expenses are included for ceremonies taking place within a 20-mile radius of central London. For ceremonies outside of this radius, additional costs will be discussed.
Do You Charge to Conduct Funeral Services for Teenagers, Young Children, or Babies?
If the deceased is under the age of 16, then I do not charge for my services.
Can You Assist at a Memorial Service?
Absolutely. Many people prefer to have a small and private cremation or burial where only the family are present but have a party to celebrate the life of the deceased at a later date, with more people in attendance. I am happy to assist you in putting this together and to lead or oversee the event on the day.
Can You Work in an Advisory Capacity If We Wish to Conduct Our Own Funeral Service?
Yes. If you wish to conduct the funeral service yourself but need guidance or help in putting the service together or in constructing a eulogy, I offer a consultancy rate of £35 per hour.
Is It Possible to Have a Live Webcast during the Service?
That depends upon the crematorium or cemetery chapel where you have decided to hold the service. Some are able to accommodate this, others aren’t.
Is It Possible to Have a Slide Show in the Service?
That depends upon the crematorium or cemetery chapel where you have decided to hold the service. Some are able to accommodate this, others aren’t.