Thoughts & Guidance

The Blog

Reflections on ceremony, grief and the art of saying a meaningful goodbye.

See Mandy at Work

28 March 2025

What It Looks Like When I Conduct a Ceremony

Families often tell me that one of the hardest parts of choosing a celebrant is not knowing what to expect. Watch real footage of me conducting a ceremony — a glimpse into the warmth, calm and care I bring to every service.

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Ceremonies

12 March 2025

What Is a Funeral Celebrant — and How Are We Different?

Many families ask me this question. A celebrant is not a minister or a vicar — we have no religious role. Instead, we are storytellers. Our job is to sit with a family, listen carefully, and craft a ceremony that truly reflects the person who has died — their humour, their passions, their relationships and their life.

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Guidance

28 February 2025

How to Write a Eulogy: A Gentle Guide for Families

Writing a eulogy for someone you love can feel overwhelming, especially when grief is so raw. But a eulogy doesn't need to be perfect — it needs to be honest. I often tell families: write it as though you're telling a friend about this person over a cup of tea. Start with a story. The formality will follow.

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Personalisation

14 February 2025

Ten Ways to Personalise a Funeral Service

A funeral doesn't have to follow a set script. Over the years I've worked with families to include favourite songs played on a vinyl record player, readings from a loved one's favourite novel, a display of handwritten recipes, and even a moment of laughter — because sometimes laughter is the most loving tribute of all.

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Pre-Planning

31 January 2025

Why Pre-Planning Your Own Funeral Is a Gift to Those You Love

It might feel like an uncomfortable thing to consider, but planning your own funeral in advance is one of the most thoughtful things you can do for your family. It removes the burden of guesswork at the hardest possible time, and ensures the ceremony truly reflects who you are — not just who people think you were.

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Grief & Healing

10 January 2025

The Importance of a Meaningful Goodbye

Research consistently shows that a meaningful farewell helps those left behind begin to process their grief. A ceremony gives us permission to stop, to gather, and to acknowledge the enormity of a loss. It doesn't have to be grand or elaborate — it simply needs to feel true. That is what I strive to create for every family I work with.

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Get in Touch

Have a Question?

I’m always happy to chat — whether you’re planning ahead or need support right now.

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