Not at all. A humanist funeral is for anyone without religion who wants a funeral based on the perspective that every life is individual and valuable.  It’s the perfect option for people who want a sincere, personal reflection on the life of their loved one.

As a humanist, I don’t perform any acts of religious worship – but I understand that for some mourners faith may be important and comforting to them and as such I always allow time for private prayer. Equally, if you want to sing or play a much loved hymn because of the memories & associations it brings back, that is ok.

Although each ceremony is unique, they often follow a similar pattern and can look something like this:

• Introductory Music

• Welcome and Opening Words

• Thoughts on life and death

• Poetry or reading // by myself or family/friends

• Tribute // an outline of the person's life and personality

•  Reflection // some quiet time to reflect on what you've heard, either in silence or with a more reflective piece of music

• The committal // when the curtains are closed or the coffin is lowered. This is often the most emotive part of the ceremony

• Closing words // including thanks and information about any wake or meet after

• Final music

I will support you throughout the whole process.

Most crematorium chapels have specified time slots which typically allow 20-25 minutes with additional time to enter and exit. This might seem quite short but it is enough time to run a ceremony such as the one outlined above without feeling time pressure. If you are unsure whether this will be enough time, there is the option to arrange/book a double slot and it would be best to speak to the Funeral Director or the chapel about this.

Sometimes there may be two parts to a ceremony, for example at a burial where there is usually an indoor service and then a committal at the graveside. There are usually no specified time slots at the graveside or in other locations you may wish to conduct a ceremony (e.g. home, garden community centre, pub...) allowing for more flexibility, although weather and temperature may well be a consideration.

Finally, memorials - these can be even more flexible again and can be held anywhere with no time restrictions.

We can look at alternative payment plans to suit your particular need.

Absolutely - typically there are three music pieces and two poetry / readings but you are able to choose what is appropriate. More often than not, the second piece of music which is placed in the middle of the ceremony is 'reflective', meaning its slower and calmer. The third piece or exit music is usually a little more upbeat - this helps with the emotional flow of the ceremony but again, you are able to choose what is appropriate.