Frequently asked questions
Answers to some of the questions families ask most often. If yours isn’t here, I’d be glad to hear from you.
About civil ceremonies
-
A civil celebrant creates and leads ceremonies that are shaped around the wishes, beliefs and values of the person who has died and their family. Unlike a religious minister or a humanist celebrant, a civil celebrant can include as much or as little religious or spiritual content as you would like.
-
Yes. A civil ceremony can include hymns, prayers and readings alongside personal tributes, music and memories. Some families choose no religious content at all, others choose a little, and some a great deal. It is entirely your choice. I work with families from a wide range of faith, cultural and spiritual backgrounds.
-
At a crematorium, ceremonies take place within a set time slot – often between 30 and 60 minutes – which includes arriving and leaving. I’ll make sure your ceremony fits comfortably and never feels rushed. Memorials and other ceremonies can be as long as you wish.
-
Almost anywhere that feels right: a crematorium, a graveside, a natural burial ground, a family home, a village hall, a hotel, a garden, a beach or a favourite outdoor place.
-
Of course. Many families like someone to read a poem, share a memory or say a few words. Others prefer that I speak on their behalf. I can also read words that you have written, if speaking on the day feels too much.
-
That’s very common. I can suggest music, poems and readings that suit the person and the tone you’d like, and help you choose.
-
Yes. I’ll share a draft with you so that you can read it, suggest changes and make sure everything feels right.
Fees & arranging a ceremony
-
Many families arrange the funeral through a funeral director, who will usually contact me on your behalf. You are also very welcome to contact me directly – just let your funeral director know you would like me to lead the ceremony.
-
My fee for a funeral ceremony is £300. Memorials and celebrations of life start from £350, ashes ceremonies from £200 and living tributes from £175. There is an additional £50 for ceremonies on a Saturday or Sunday. You’ll find full details on the Ceremonies page.
If you are arranging the funeral through a funeral director, my fee is usually included in their account. Where I’m hosting a whole gathering – such as a celebration of life after a direct cremation – I’ll give you a clear quote once we’ve talked through what you need.
-
Our first conversation, writing a personalised ceremony, sharing a draft for your comments and changes, liaising with your funeral director and venue, leading the ceremony on the day, and a keepsake copy of the ceremony afterwards – printed, or as a digital copy if you prefer.
-
As soon as you feel ready. Funerals are often arranged within a few weeks, so it helps to speak early, but I will always do my best to help.
-
No. A Living Tribute & Future Wishes conversation is a chance to record your thoughts, memories and wishes for the people who matter to you. It is not a financial or prepaid funeral plan.
-
I’m based in Towcester and lead ceremonies across Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire – including Northampton, Milton Keynes, Daventry, Brackley, Buckingham, Cranfield, Bedford, Kettering and Aylesbury. Travel within 30 miles is included; I’m happy to travel further for a small mileage charge.
Still have a question?
Every family’s situation is different, so please don’t hesitate to ask. There’s no obligation.