what is a funeral celebrant?
A funeral director told me that when he visits a family he advises, “If you want a service about God or centred around your religious faith, ask a minister to lead it. If you want a service about this person who has died, ask a Celebrant.”
where I work
Most of the funerals and celebrations of life that I deliver happen at Aberystwyth Crematorium, which is in a beautiful location on the outskirts of the town. The chapel has a wall-sized picture window looking out over the countryside below with a green and peaceful view. You can also see feeders which attract a variety of birds – something many mourners find comforting as they attend a service.
I have also officiated in fields, on farms, at designated green burial sites and in graveyards; as well as conducted memorials in all kinds of venues, including village halls and private homes. I am willing to travel outside my patch if I have the time available and my travel expenses are covered. The more notice I have, the more likely I can help.
Working with funeral directors
Since I began working as a Celebrant, I have been privileged to work with many different Funeral Directors, all of whom have their own style and personality and without question, all experienced and utterly professional. We are very lucky in the Aberystwyth area to be able to choose from both well-established family firms and experienced young funeral directors. We also have a choice of male or female funeral directors.
Sometimes it’s the funeral director who tells the next of kin about me and sometimes it’s the other way round if I am already known to the family. The Funeral Director usually pays me and my fee is included in the overall bill they send to you. If you want to pay me separately, you can but it’s best to be clear about this before the day of the service.
I do not recommend any particular funeral director because it is a personal choice best made by yourself. What I can say is that everyone whom I have worked with has always performed to the highest standard and I have been happy to be associated with them. Do talk to me if you would like further advice on selecting your funeral director.
counselling
If you feel you would benefit from counselling, you are welcome to come and see me or you could get free support from a charity such as Cruse Bereavement Care.
About nicola
When I was in my 30s a child I knew died and I had no idea of what I could say to the mother that might be comforting. I decided I never wanted to be in this position again and so went to volunteer for Cruse Bereavement Care, who trained people as one to one supporters for the bereaved. Since that time I have sat with hundreds of people of all ages and backgrounds and many different kinds of bereavements. I learned that one of the many things that can help is being able to say goodbye and thank you in a meaningful way to the person who died. For many of us, the first opportunity to do this is at the funeral. When, as mourners, we are able to express what we think and feel, when we can honour the life of the deceased in a truthful way, this helps us gradually get used to the permanent absence of a significant person from our lives.
divorce ceremonies
I am interested to help couples who are ending their marriage to create a divorce ceremony honouring what has gone before and looking to their new and different future, whatever that may be.
Testimonials for Nicola Dunkley
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