Why have an independent celebrant?

An independent celebrant has no affiliation with any particular belief system. I work closely with you to create a unique service.

I am passionate about giving people the opportunity to tailor make a unique ceremony that reflects their personal beliefs and values, for which ever important life event you are marking.

What’s the difference between a humanist celebrant and a non-humanist celebrant?

As an independent celebrant I am not bound by any beliefs or doctrine, as religious or Humanist celebrants are. You can integrate elements from any faith or none, weave in poetry, readings, prayers, live or recorded music, it’s entirely up to you. One family referred to me at a funeral as a vicar, and I gently corrected them - ‘Oh’ they said, you are a ‘Not Vicar’!

Why ‘Magpie’ Ceremonies?

Magpies collect anything that they are attracted to and the ceremony I make with you can be a ‘pick and mix’.  I believe ceremonies should reflect the individual’s ideas about life and spirituality. You don’t have to accept a certain kind of ceremony just because that is what is expected or what is “traditionally” done.

In an increasingly secular society people sometimes don’t know how to make a profound ceremony with soul. I work with individuals and families to make choices that are meaningful and relevant to them. Your ceremony can contain as much or as little religious reference as you like, to any religion, or none at all.

The well know rhyme “One for sorrow, two for mirth, three for a wedding and four for a birth”, sealed the choice of name for me.

I invite you to pick the things that shine for you, like a magpie does.  

Can we read some testimonials from your previous ceremonies?

Yes of course, you can view them here.

Are you insured?

I have both professional indemnity and public liability insurance to give total peace of mind.

Where can ceremonies take place?

It depends what you want! You can use village halls, hotels, outdoor spaces or anywhere that has a hireable space or you have permission to use. You can hold a ceremony in a public place like a park, beach or favourite picnic spot if you don’t mind curious passers by.

Non religious funerals are generally held at a crematorium or green burial ground – you can also have a memorial service which could take place anywhere.

Celebrant led wedding ceremonies can be held in a special outdoor space or in the grounds of a venue that doesn’t have a legal license yet - meaning you are free to design your own, personal ceremony. English law currently only legally recognises weddings to be taken by a registrar in a licensed venue, so if that’s what you want you need to also register your marriage/civil partnership with the local Council.

How far will you travel for a ceremony?

I am based in the Shropshire / Welsh border area, however I am happy to travel anywhere.

What do you mean by ritual?

As part of a ceremony we can incorporate ritual actions that symbolise the heart of what we are marking. Lighting or extinguishing candles, blessing rings, hand fasting, casting flowers or messages into a grave, releasing balloons, planting flowers; they will be part of a bespoke ceremony that’s personal to you. These actions are given meaning and will resonate with those present.

How much do you charge?

Its important to ask! I try to be up front and clear - my basic fees for funeral ceremonies are £250, Naming ceremonies are £300 and wedding ceremonies are £600. There may be additional costs for resources or travel, depending on location.

After our chat, if you decided you’d like to book me, I ask for a deposit of the agreed fee and we each sign a contract.