FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can the ceremony be outdoors?
Can we write our own words?
Are there any restrictions on length of ceremony?
Is it possible to have live musicians?
I’m not religious but would like a hymn or a prayer is that possible?
What does a celebrant do?
Can we show photos on screen or projector?
How can people who are coming be involved?

You can include anything in the ceremony and make it personal to you!

Can the ceremony be outdoors?
Yes most ceremonies can be outdoors obviously depending on the season, the weather and how many people are expected. A funeral with a cremation needs to be at a Crematorium

Can we write our own words?
Yes, it gives a very personal touch if people write themselves or give me ideas for their promises, speeches, poems and tributes. Grandchildren can often write and deliver something appropriate and moving at the funeral for their gran or granddad

Are there any restrictions on length of ceremony?
Crematoria do have restrictions on the length of the funeral service. These vary from 20 to 60 minutes though it is possible to book a double slot. I can help you find another suitable venue if you want a funeral or memorial service in addition to the committal or burial.

For other celebrations it will be up to you and the occasion. If there are many babies or young children at a naming party you won’t want a ceremony that is too formal or too long.

Is it possible to have live musicians?
Yes; you may have friends who can sing or play instruments or if there is time I can help identify local musicians or small choirs.

I’m not religious but would like a hymn or a prayer is that possible?
Yes; and I can suggest ones that are appropriate. If you do want a hymn then consider if there will be enough people present who can join in the singing.

What does a celebrant do?
A celebrant does some of the same things as a religious minister; helping with planning, officiating at the ceremony, giving support. In Australia and New Zealand the role is the norm and is becoming more recognised in the UK. There are many organisations which provide training courses for celebrants.

Can we show photos on screen or projector?
Yes, this is easier with indoor celebrations. You can create a slide show and save it on a memory stick.

How can people who are coming be involved?
People can be involved in many ways:, releasing balloons, lighting candles, saying promises, singing, reading poems, writing messages, gifts, applause, cooking….whatever their talents and your wishes! At Quaker weddings and funerals everyone present is invited to make a spoken contribution which is either planned or spontaneous.

You can include anything in the ceremony and make it personal to you!