Every journey through loss is unique – but you don’t have to walk it alone
The Journey
Through Grief, Remembrance & Healing
Losing someone you love marks the beginning of a deeply personal journey – through grief, remembrance, and ultimately, healing. This space has been created to gently support that path.
Here you’ll find reflections, guidance, and practical information to help you understand what’s involved in planning a funeral service that truly honours a life. Whether you’re navigating immediate arrangements or simply wanting to prepare for the future, my goal is to provide clarity and comfort every step of the way.
You’ll also find answers to frequently asked questions, and a growing collection of blog posts offering insight into ceremony options, meaningful rituals, writing tributes, and more.
My Blog
Resources & Recommendations
Voluntary Assisted Dying – the Bright Side
Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) can be a tricky topic to tackle. This is not an information piece. For that please seek out the laws in your state as each state has different laws. This is an opinion...
Stoic philosophy on grief
“It is better to conquer our grief than to deceive it. For if it has withdrawn, being merely beguiled by pleasures and preoccupations, it starts up again and from its very respite gains force to...
What if we Don’t Want a Funeral?
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....
Do I Need a Celebrant for a Funeral?
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...
Writing a Eulogy: Where to Start?
Sometimes it’s hard to find words. And yet, we try – because we want to honour them. You stare at a blank page or screen. You may have tears in your eyes. You have heaviness in your heart. Writing a...
What Does a Funeral Celebrant Do?
When someone dies, there’s suddenly so much to think about – emotions, practicalities, decisions that feel too big. In the middle of all that, the role of a funeral celebrant is simple: to ease the...
FAQ
Common Questions
What does a funeral celebrant do?
A funeral celebrant creates and delivers a personalised ceremony that honours a person’s life, values, and story. I work closely with the family and the funeral director to ensure the ceremony reflects the wishes of everyone involved – whether secular, spiritual, or somewhere in between. On the day of the service I will check in with the family for any last minute wishes and during the service I’m able to step in and help with speaking should emotions take over. After the ceremony I provide a commemorative copy of the service as a keepsake.
How do you personalise a funeral service?
I work closely with families to learn about the person who has passed – their personality, stories, values, and wishes – to create a ceremony that reflects their unique life. I can suggest poems and readings that align with the character of your loved one and that reflect the mood you wish the create. I’m a confident speaker and I create the mood through my delivery of the agreed service.
Can family and friends be involved in the ceremony?
Yes. Many families choose to speak, share readings or stories, or include music and special touches. I can also speak on your behalf if preferred.
What if we’re not sure what we want in the ceremony?
That’s completely okay. I’ll guide you through each step, offer suggestions, and help shape something that feels right for you and your loved ones.
How long does a funeral service usually go for?
Most services last 30 to 45 minutes, but this depends on what you’d like to include. I’ll help you plan the timing to suit your needs. Should you wish to have a longer ceremony I can advise on venue hire options to avoid the embarrassment of having to cut a service short due to another booking after yours. (Almost) anything is possible. We just need to be informed and prepared. Shorter services are also popular if your loved one was an “I don’t want a fuss” person. We can say much with fewer words delivered with heart and feeling.
Do you meet with the family beforehand?
Yes – I always meet or speak with the family before the day. It’s an important step in creating a meaningful and accurate tribute. As this meeting is important I allow between 1 and 2 hours; time enough to share stories, plan the service format, and of course put you at ease to know that you are in capable and caring hands. After this meeting we liaise by phone or email as often as required.
Can you help with writing a eulogy or tribute?
Absolutely. I have a passion for writing and story telling and can write the main tribute for you, help you write your own, or offer support in preparing words for others to share. We each have a unique “voice” and whilst I encourage you to write in yours, I understand that not everyone shares my passion. Writing a heartfelt and entertaining eulogy is made easier with my support and guidance.
Where do you service?
I work throughout Adelaide and its surrounds and I’m happy to travel to your chosen venue, whether it’s a chapel, crematorium, cemetery or private space. Some country destinations may incur a small surcharge to cover additional travel costs. Please contact me to discuss these.
Do you work with funeral homes?
Yes. I always collaborate with funeral directors to ensure everything runs smoothly and respectfully on the day. I have excellent working relationships with funeral directors across Adelaide as I’m seen as reliable, caring, compassionate and professional.
How do we get started?
You’re welcome to get in touch for a chat directly, or through your funeral director who will respect your wishes to engage a funeral celebrant that is known to you and that you trust. Should we speak directly, there’s no obligation, just a warm and open conversation.