Funeral Celebrant
Finding the right funeral celebrant can make all the difference in your healing process.
I understand how extremely difficult a time this is for you.
The act of planning a funeral can be incredibly overwhelming, but a professional funeral celebrant can guide you through an important opportunity for family and friends to come together, share their grief, honor their loved one, and start to heal.
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard” (AA Milne)
It’s so important to maintain a positive focus on the life your loved one lived. I pride myself on delivering warm and heartfelt funeral services that reflect your loved ones personality, respects their beliefs, and offers some comfort to those who knew and loved them.
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart” (Mahatma Gandhi)
It’s a time to remember the beautiful moments, the funny stories, and the cherished memories that will forever hold a place in your hearts.
I can help you to select a perfect reading, pay tribute to family customs and traditions, incorporate religious elements if desired, and ensure speakers share their tributes and memories with confidence.
“May we leave today inspired by the life and character of those who went before us”
Below are some elements that you may like to consider when planning a funeral, but I will confidently guide and support you through this process to ensure all the important moments are captured.
Music
Music can be incredibly powerful in capturing the essence of your loved one’s life. Whether it’s their favorite song, a piece that reflects their personality, or music that brings comfort. We can have recorded music or live performances. Music can also accompany a slideshow or video footage, or simply to create a moment for quite, personal reflection.
Readings
Readings hold a special place in funeral ceremonies. It could be a beautiful poem, a biblical blessing or scripture, words to a meaningful song, or even a short story that held special meaning for you and your loved one.
Tributes
Tributes are essential to honor and remember the person you’ve lost. We can share stories, memories, and personal reflections during the ceremony, creating a heartfelt tribute that captures the essence of your loved one and ensure they are remembered and celebrated forever.
Symbolism
Symbolic gestures can add an extra touch of remembrance. Imagine releasing a dove or butterfly to symbolize the departure of your loved one’s spirit or soul from this world. You could also consider planting a tree or using plantable seed cards, serving as a constant reminder of the beautiful times you shared. And don’t forget about cards of remembrance, where guests can write their favorite memory of your loved one to be placed in a box and read by the family at a later time.
Guest Book
A guest book is a wonderful way for friends and family to leave personal messages, or share their love and support during this difficult time. And to create a visual tribute, we can set up a beautiful memorial table that displays photos and favorite items that hold special meaning.
I am here for you
Please know that as you navigate this challenging process, you don’t have to do it alone.
I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way, and ensure your loved one’s farewell is filled with warmth, love, and memories that will be cherished for years to come.
If you would like to speak to me directly to start creating a beautiful memory together, please reach out to me at your earliest convenience, so we can start planning a heartfelt ceremony that truly honors your loved one.
Alternatively, any funeral home you have engaged to assist you with the planning process will contact me to arrange my services on your behalf.
Should you wish to request my funeral celebrant services through them, I can highly recommend Le Pine Funerals, W.D Rose Funerals, or for something a little different, The Last Hurrah Funerals.
Kind Words
“Empathy and understanding, Meriki has this in spades.
We chose Meriki as we immediately had a feeling of support and understanding regarding the
wishes of my father. A funeral is a deeply personal event, one that brings out vulnerability.
Meriki was able to connect and respect each family member to ensure that not only did they say what was needed to be said but also were able to laugh and remember the good times.
We cannot thank Meriki enough for her compassion and guidance through a difficult time.”
~ Kennon Family
“Joanne and I would like to thank you for a wonderful job officiating as our celebrant at the funeral of Santo Marabita on Friday 30th June 2023.
Your kind words before, during and after the service were beautiful. I am so glad we choose the music and the poems you recommended. Thanks for helping us put together our thoughts of Santo. You were very professional and caring and we can see why you love doing the job you are doing. Thanks for spending the initial meeting with us and all the emails sent back and forwards. We have great memories of the day, thanks to you.”
~ Marabita Family
“Good morning Meriki, i just wanted to thank you so much for yesterday. Your beautiful words and sincerity were much appreciated. I know mum would have been very happy with her farewell. Myself and the family were approached by many who wanted to say how wonderful you were. Thank you for being there for mum and us xxx”
~ Cinquegrana Family
“Dear Meriki. We would like to thank you for the beautiful service you put together for us yesterday. We were so very happy with Sandie’s beautiful send off and for your beautiful words and greatly appreciate your support and kindness on the day. Thank you.”
~ Pontin Family
“There was no need for words, the expressions on their faces told me everything.
They were glowing – the air was thick with superlatives – and every sentence began with ‘Meriki’. You had certainly made a very positive and lasting impression on many people that afternoon.
Norma and Dianne, join me in saying thank you for creating such a memorable day.
We all felt your professionalism and attention to detail were absolutely extraordinary.
I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity of working with you during the planning stages of the ‘celebration’ and take this opportunity to thank you again for the time and trouble you put into accommodating our every wish.”
~ Beever Family