Can we celebrate in another way?
The funeral industry calls this “NSNA” – no service, no attendance. Your funeral director takes care of the legals and you may choose a private cremation or burial. This helps to keep costs down but it may also just be what your loved one wanted. Many people, for a variety of reasons, choose not to have a formal funeral in a church or a non-religious chapel service. For them, a celebration of life resonates with their character and how they wish to be remembered.
If you’re considering a celebration of life there are many advantages to heading down this path.
Your timing is not driven by the date of the funeral. You have time to allow the emotions to settle and for your thinking to be clearer. Your tribute can be planned without pressure and your guests have time to consider what they might like to contribute on the day. It can take a lot of the stress out of planning a service when a deadline is looming and you’re feeling the strain.
The venue is totally optional. I’ve been to celebrations of life in national parks, function rooms at local hotels, golf clubrooms, someone’s home, the choices are limited only by your imagination and what your loved one may have wanted. For some its money on the bar at the local pub, or a gathering in a national park where everyone BYOs. It can be as casual as you want, or you can have some formality.
How can a funeral celebrant help with your celebration of life planning? We are experienced in many different formats and can help to plan a celebration that flows well and honours the character of your loved one. We can act as your MC, coordinating and guiding the speakers through the sharing of stories. We can take the pressure off you so you can relax and engage with your guests.
If you’re considering this may be a good option for you, you’re welcome to get in touch. I offer no-obligation conversations to help you understand what’s possible – and what might feel right for you.
It’s completely okay to take your time and ask questions.