Funerals
What is a Civil Funeral Ceremony?
A Civil Funeral Ceremony often takes place at a crematorium or non-religious burial site. It could also be used as a ceremony or burial of ashes after the funeral has taken place. This ceremony can be non-religious or contain religious elements such as hymns, readings, poems or prayers.
The role of a Civil Celebrant
I would meet with family and friends to discuss the service to make sure that your loved one has the best possible tribute that is both personal and respectful.
We will discuss where you would like the service to be held, the order of the service, the eulogy or tribute, personal prayers, poems, and favourite music. We will decide whether a family/friend will read these out or whether you would like me to do all or some of this.
As your celebrant I would usually lead the service, standing at the front and would welcome your family and friends. I would also welcome those you have chosen to read a prayer or a poem, if on the day they find this too difficult I am on hand to take over.
Locations
The Areas I cover are Putney, Barnes, Mortlake, Chiswick, Sheen, Kew and Richmond.
How we start
Generally we would meet in your home, we can meet at the Funeral Directors if you prefer. This meeting generally takes 1-2 hours.
You can prepare before my visit, below are some ideas and suggestions to start to think about...
- It's all about your loved one; you can choose how much you wish to mention and talk about them.
- Favourite poems, music, hymns or prayers.
- Significant names, dates, memories, people, places and events.
- Spouse, children, grand-children or great grand-children names.
- Their place of birth, where they lived and worked, work achievements, interests and hobbies.
- Anecdotes, humorous stories.
- Beliefs religious or otherwise.
Depending on how much time we have between our meeting, and the actual date of the funeral, I would aim to have a draft for you to read two days after our meeting.
The service
Having a Civil Ceremony does not restrict you as to what type of service and what you can include (readings, hymns, poems and music) the service usually runs between 25-45 minutes.
On the day of the funeral I will be at the venue waiting for you and would have already spoken with the Funeral Director and Crematorium staff. I will be on hand after the service has finished should you have any questions.
Generally I wear a black suit with a white shirt, however, should you wish me to incorporate colour I can do this with adding a scarf or neckerchief. If you do not wish to me to wear black I have suits in various colours such as navy or grey.
My working hours are from 0800-1800 Monday to Friday, I am available for meeting over a weekend or in the evening I will work with you and the family.
If you would like to get in touch please email me at: sandy.vanheer@gmail.com or call me on my mobile : 07864 829911. If I am unable to take your call please leave me your name, number and a suitable time to call you back.