A path shaped by love and remembrance

My journey towards becoming a funeral celebrant began in 2012, when my brother and my dad died within months of each other.

The same celebrant led both funerals, and I wrote and delivered a eulogy at each service. Although it was not easy, I found it meaningful to share their stories and capture what made each of them special.

Writing and delivering those eulogies made me realise how much thoughtful words can mean to a family, and planted the seed of becoming a celebrant myself.

The experience I bring

I spent more than 30 years working in Internal Audit and Risk. When that chapter came to an end, I had the opportunity to train as a funeral celebrant.

Qualification

NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Funeral Celebrancy.

Internal Audit and celebrancy may seem very different, but much of my work involved listening carefully, building trust, asking thoughtful questions and handling difficult or sensitive conversations.

My role required me to communicate clearly, remain calm and speak confidently in front of others. I now bring those same qualities to every family I support.

Listen Carefully
Build Trust
Write with Warmth
Speak with Calm
Sunrise over Cassiobury Park, Watford
“Love lives forever in memories.”from a note written by my Mum

Sunrise over Cassiobury Park, Watford, on a morning walk

These words have become especially meaningful to me. They reflect something at the heart of my work as a celebrant: remembering the people we love and the lives they lived.

Rachel out walking with her dog, Mojo
Out walking with Mojo.

A little more about me

I grew up in Aylesbury and have lived in Croxley Green, near Rickmansworth, since 1997. Family is an important part of my life, including my two adult children, my partner and my much loved Lagotto Romagnolo, Mojo.

Mojo used to run beside me while I trained for half marathons. These days, we are both happier enjoying our walks at a gentler pace.

Away from work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, getting out for a walk and the occasional glass of Prosecco.

Every life deserves to sound like the person who lived it

No two families, relationships or experiences of loss are the same. My role is to listen to your memories and bring them together in an honest, personal and recognisable ceremony.

Talk to me about a ceremony