You’ve experienced the loss of somebody close to you, or its impending. Before you meet with your funeral director this question may pop into your mind – taking up space with all your feelings of sadness, confusion, overwhelm and loss. Your funeral director will discuss the issue of engaging a celebrant. Before you decide, it will help to know this.
Not everyone chooses to have a celebrant. Some families prefer to lead the ceremony themselves. Others turn to a celebrant for help when the emotions feel too big, or the logistics feel too complex.
There’s no rule. But having a celebrant often brings a sense of calm and steadiness to an unsteady time.
A celebrant offers more than just words on the day. They provide guidance, structure, and support from the beginning – helping you think through the ceremony, shaping a tribute that reflects the person who has died, and gently holding space for the family and mourners.
Many people don’t realise how much goes into a funeral until they’re suddenly planning one. Choosing music, writing eulogies, organising speakers, timing each part – it can quickly become overwhelming. A celebrant will collate and coordinate material for the service, check in with all speakers and iron out any glitches to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day. They take that weight off your shoulders, so you can focus on being present.
They also offer an outside perspective – someone who can hear your stories and help draw out the threads that make a tribute feel complete and heartfelt.
So do you need a celebrant? Not always. But for many families, it’s a comfort to have someone experienced walking alongside them – someone who understands both the practicalities and the emotions.
If you’re unsure, it’s okay to ask questions. A good celebrant won’t push. They’ll simply offer support and give you space to decide what feels right.
Next steps
If you’re not sure whether a celebrant is right for your family, 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.