Saying goodbye

When I started pursuing my career as a celebrant, I never thought I’d want to deliver funeral services. As part of my celebrancy course, I had to interview several funeral directors about their business. What consistently surprised me about the industry was how much joy people in the funeral industry gained from their work. 

Having the opportunity to work with families, often at a vulnerable time, to develop a suitable farewell some someone they loved is something I get enormous satisfaction from.

When I’m working with a family on a funeral, my first priority is to make the service personal. Highlighting the impact they have had on those around them.

Secondly, my wish is for the immediate family to feel like they have bid farewell to someone they care about in a way which brings closure for them.

Lastly, my hope is that the other guests feel like they have been a part of something special, and perhaps even learned something about the person they didn’t already know.

Many of the best funerals I have been a part of involve both tears and a few laughs. Remembering those who have passed the way you want them remembered is the key.

In my pursuit to create non-traditional services, I started Sunshine Coast Funerals. We hold farewell services away from churches and chapel. If the deceased loved the beach, consider hosting a memorial service on the beach. Perhaps a sunrise, perhaps on the weekend.

The motto is, ‘if it’s legal, let’s do it’