I can support you throughout the planning process of a loved one’s funeral or memorial.
The task of planning a loved one’s funeral or memorial service may feel overwhelming. It can be an incredibly challenging time, yet it can also be an opportunity to come together, to share in your grief and also a chance to remember and celebrate a loved one’s memory.
Memorials and funerals can be really sad. Yet they are also an important part of the grieving process; a chance for you to honour your loved one, both with meaning and in a way that reflects them, their unique life story and personality.
The planning process
When it comes to organising the memorial service or funeral, you have a couple of options.
The first is to arrange it through a funeral director, which means the service will generally take place at a crematorium or burial site. Or you may wish to arrange your own memorial, at a space or location that is more personal to you and your loved one.
The planning process is an important part of the grieving and healing process.
The order of service
The order of service for a memorial service (wherever it takes place) can run along these guidelines. They are only guidelines and you, the family, can change and personalise any of the below.
Opening piece of music
Introduction – generally carried out by the celebrant
Eulogy - the deceased life story, which can be read and written by a friend, family member or celebrant
Tributes / Memories – these can be written by friends and family and read out by the family, friends or celebrant.
Photo Slideshow – a visual slideshow of the deceased life in photos, usually accompanied with a piece of music.
Floral Tribute – guests can lay flowers on the coffin, to say goodbye (accompanied by a piece of music)
Committal – this is the final goodbye, usually lead by the celebrant.
Closing music
What I can offer
I will support you and your family. I can offer choices and advise. I can guide you and then create and deliver a personalised, fitting ceremony.
How you say goodbye is entirely up to you. I am happy to carry out traditional or non-traditional/alternative services. I will respect your choices and beliefs, and help you in creating the service.
Feel free to get in touch to discuss the memorial service, or you can speak to your funeral director and let them know you’d like me to be your celebrant.
“From the moment I met Sarita, I knew she would be the perfect celebrant for my mum’s funeral. She is so lovely, warm, kind and is truly ‘gifted’. She asked when I met her, if she could add some special touches to the eulogy and I was absolutely amazed at her work. The service was very personal and relaxed, which is exactly what we wanted. We received so many comments on how beautiful the service was. I really can’t thank Sarita enough for everything she did. She is an absolute gem.”