23/08/2024
It's quite hard to promote my funeral work - as I always want to respect the privacy of the families and whanau I work so closely with. But as someone pointed out the other day, l've not posted on my socials at all this year, so I thought it was time for a revisit.
While I still do some weddings, my primary work now is funerals, though I'm reluctant to even refer to it as 'work' because it certainly doesn't feel that way. To be able to help families in their time of greatest need is something I will never take for granted - and I am grateful to the families, and funeral directors who invite me in.
This has allowed me to apply my skills not only as a celebrant but also as a specialist eulogy writer - with a determination that every family will have beautiful words spoken about their loved one after they pass. Regardless of how long someone has lived from their sunrise to sunset, there is a unique story to be told. Every life is extraordinary - and in their most vulnerable moments, many families ask me to write the eulogy of their loved one. That process is cathartic in so many ways - in the recalling of their memories and anecdotes, and which I then present in a loving and insightful way - all about their loved one, all because of their loved one - and reflecting and honouring the life that has been lost.
I also meet with those facing terminal illness who wish to take the lead in the planning of their own farewell. Working with them on this key component of their send-off is very humbling, but ensures that their voice is still heard, even when their story has come to an end.
