Funeral Celebrant Guy

My life as a celebrant began at a wedding – and that happened by accident! I was working at the time as a speechwriter for a CEO. As a special favour, I helped to write his father-of-the-bride speech and then, when the celebrant booked to lead the wedding ceremony fell ill at the last minute, I stepped in to officiate.

There has been much loss in my life. Both dear friends and family members have died suddenly and tragically. These experiences of bereavement, though, have taught me a lot about grieving – not just personally, but also about the process that others experience.

I am a funeral celebrant because I recognise how important a part the farewell ceremony is in the mourning of a loss. I also know that many people feel isolated and alone when grieving. Many find it hard to express or understand their emotions, and many others find it hard to engage with those who are suffering the impact of bereavement.  

Helping to explore the stories of the departed person’s life is liberating for mourners, and this is where I feel I can provide greatest support alongside the practical task of preparing a ceremony.

 The stories that emerge are, of course, the bedrock of any funeral ceremony – because they capture the person whose life we are celebrating.

I live in Glasgow with my partner and am a passionate musician and painter.