06/10/2025
Have you been thinking about funerals lately – either your own or someone else's?
(Yes, I know we all at times feel like committing murder but that's not what I'm talking about here. I'm about to talk about a real, loved-filled, heartbreaking funeral, so please read on if you're wondering or scroll on if death never impacts you ....)
Maybe you've been told, have a secret hunch or simply accept you'll be leaving this planet before your loved ones and you want to make it easy for them.
Maybe you've lost a loved one and haven't a clue how to say goodbye in a really meaningful and memorable way, without it costing a fortune...
Because this isn't something people talk about as a rule is it?
Well I do, I've talked to hundreds of people over the last 11+ years about the loss of a loved one. I've listened to the confusion, the heartbreak, the funny stories and the pain. Most importantly, I've attended funerals, internments, scattering of ashes, wakes, anniversary of loss and even birthday celebrations, with my doves, those beautiful white birds who for thousands of years and across cultures have been symbols of love, peace and new beginnings.
I'm Viv and I own the only dove release company in Sussex yet I only cover a 25 mile radius of Brighton so not many get to witness and enjoy such a unique event at the loss of a loved one. For those that do though it's magical and leaves a lasting impression of beauty and love sent flying.
With costs rising but loved ones insisting you mustn't spend a fortune, direct cremation is becoming very popular. Saying goodbye must still be said though and a dove release is the perfect way to do it. You can plan it whenever and wherever you like: at the wake, in a pub garden, church graveyard, cremation grounds, back garden or down on the beach. You can have eulogies or poems, some music, even a song, or simply gather to watch or hold a dove you then send flying with your love as it rises and circles before heading back home to us.
My doves live in purpose built sheds, they fly free all day then return and put themselves to bed when it gets dark (they're a lot easier to raise than teenagers!! ;) ). If you live near West Hove/Hangleton you may have seen them circling in a flock, silhouetted against the blue sky with feathers glinting in the sunshine. Look out for them, they're an uplifting and beautiful sight!
They're used to car rides too, safely protected in purpose designed baskets that are decorated in fresh flowers, and they do get used to being held. Older birds, like our Bobby Blue, sit quite contentedly in my hands for ages as we wait for a service to finish.
Do give me a ring if you'd like to hear more and maybe plan a release. You can even visit them if you like – we're a friendly flock!
Finally, please give death some thought. Suppressed grief can negatively impact us for years and while we will hold our loved ones in our hearts forever, we must find a way to release them with love and gratitude when they die.
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