I’m an experienced celebrant who has helped more than 100 families celebrate their loved one’s lives.
I live in South Yorkshire with my husband, mad old boxer dog and feisty cat. When I’m not meeting with families, writing services or leading a ceremony, you will find me trying to tame the garden or reading a book. Occasionally, I might have escaped on holiday or for a rare night out!
My family are from the borders of south Yorkshire, north Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, although I actually grew up in Staffordshire. I come from a long line of miners (until my parents broke the trend and became teachers).
Becoming a celebrant was almost inevitable as it weaves together my past experiences and skills. I am passionate about helping to tell people’s stories. It is a privilege to serve those who have lost a loved one.
Before officially becoming a celebrant, I delivered many eulogies over the years, almost all for family members. Sadly, I have also delivered a number of memorial services, mainly for former students. In all of them, I sought to capture the character of the person lost, remembering the very best of them, often with humour, always with respect, and finding the joy in their lives to share with those who are mourning.
I am a natural story teller and that threads its way through my career history.
Before becoming a celebrant, I was a secondary headteacher in two south Yorkshire schools.
Back in 1994, I trained as an English and drama teacher so have a wealth of poems and other readings at my fingertips, as well as being a skilful writer.
Before training to teach, I was a journalist and editor on a range of international magazines linked to different industries. I won several awards for my writing during these years.
Through all my roles, I have had to listen carefully and communicate clearly and honestly.
And now? As I finally retired from headship and teaching, I fulfilled my dream to train as a celebrant. It is a privilege to serve those who have lost a loved one.
I was delighted to do this with the Fellowship of Professional Celebrants.*
(If you want a list of my letters, I have: MA, BA (Hons), PGCE & ACP. But in truth it’s the years of experience that matter at times like this.)
*The Fellowship of Professional Celebrants is the largest organisation of independent celebrants in the UK and Europe. To belong to the fellowship, you have to be professionally trained by the organisation. “Passionate about ceremony; passionate about people.”
I am also committed to on-going development to ensure I provide the best possible services; in 2025, I have attended the Independent Celebrant Retreat.
I am honoured to have been nominated for Celebrant of the Year in the Good Funeral Awards 2025.
