Weddings
What Not to Say in a Eulogy: Gentle Guidance for a Meaningful Tribute
Writing a eulogy is one of the most personal things you will ever do.
Most advice focuses on what to include — but knowing what not to say in a eulogy can be just as important.
When emotions are high and the room is full of people who are grieving, sensitivity matters. A few careful choices can make the difference between a comforting tribute and an awkward moment.
Read MoreWriting a Eulogy? Start With These 4 Simple Stages 🤍
Being asked to write a eulogy is an honour — but it can also feel overwhelming. If you’re staring at a blank page wondering where to begin… take a breath. It doesn’t need to be perfect.It doesn’t need to be poetic.It just needs to be sincere. Here’s a simple 4-stage structure that can make writing…
Read MoreHow to write a eulogy without falling apart ✍️💛
A eulogy isn’t meant to be perfect. It’s simply the story of someone you love.
Read MoreCelebrant or Humanist – What’s the Difference?
When planning a funeral, wedding, renewal of vows or baby naming ceremony, many people wonder about the difference between a celebrant and a humanist. The two roles are often confused, but understanding the distinction can help you choose the right type of ceremony for you or your family. What does a celebrant do? A celebrant…
Read MoreA Christmas Reflection: Interment of Ashes ✨🎄
Christmas is a time of light, love, and memories. For many families, it’s also a moment when we feel the absence of loved ones a little more deeply.
One gentle way to honour them is through an interment of ashes — creating a peaceful place to visit not just at Christmas, but all year round.
Honouring a Life of Service: Funerals for Members of Public Service Organisations
Across the UK, countless people dedicate their time, skills, and compassion to organisations rooted in service — groups like the Freemasons, Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, the Women’s Institute, and many more. Membership of these organisations often reflects a deep commitment to community, friendship, and charity.
When someone who has lived by these values dies, their funeral becomes much more than a farewell. It becomes an opportunity to recognise a lifetime of service and to celebrate the impact they’ve made on others.
At Top Note Ceremonies, I work closely with families to create funeral services that honour both the individual and the organisation that meant so much to them.
Read MoreEmbracing Love – An Inclusive LGBTQIA+ Wedding or Commitment Ceremony
Welcome to a celebration of love without boundaries—a space where every union is honoured, cherished, and filled to the brim with joy. As a Shropshire-based celebrant, I’m truly honoured to walk alongside you as we craft a day that will live in your hearts forever. Your ceremony is more than an event… it’s a tapestry…
Read MoreChoosing a Reading or Poem for a Funeral or Celebration of Life
It doesn’t have to be solemn – it just has to feel right Choosing a reading or poem for a funeral or celebration of life can feel like a daunting task. In the middle of organising the service, supporting family, and navigating your own emotions, selecting the right words can seem like one more overwhelming…
Read More💬 Thinking about hiring a celebrant? Here’s what you need to know!
As a celebrant I get asked these questions all the time — so here’s a quick guide to the most common ones:
1️⃣ What is a celebrant?
A celebrant designs and leads personalised ceremonies for weddings, funerals, naming ceremonies, vow renewals, and more — telling your story, your way.
2️⃣ Celebrant vs Registrar – what’s the difference?
This is the current situation, but it may change in the future. Registrars’ services can also vary, so it’s always best to check with your local registrar’s office for the most up-to-date information.
Celebrant: Personalised, flexible, any venue, any style. (In England & Wales, you still need a separate legal registration.)
Registrar: Legal marriage in a licensed venue, following a set script — no religious/spiritual content allowed.
Read More✨Am I inclusive of all couples? ✨
The short answer: Absolutely. Always.
Am I inclusive of all couples? As a celebrant, it’s not just my job—but my privilege—to stand alongside people as they mark the most meaningful moments of their lives. And that means all people.
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