As an independent celebrant, I have the honour of standing with people at some of life’s most significant thresholds. Weddings, naming ceremonies, renewal of vows and celebration of life services all share one thing in common. They pause time. They invite reflection. They ask us to consider what truly matters.…
Category: Death
Honouring Our Loved Ones at Christmas and Special Life Events
A Gentle Guide by Shelley Bell Celebrant Christmas is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, but for many of us, it can also be one of the most emotional. As the lights twinkle and families gather, we may feel the presence — and the absence —…
Top 10 Most Popular Wedding Songs, Top 10 Most Popular Funeral Songs & Why Music Matters in Every Ceremony
Music is the heartbeat of any ceremony. Whether it’s a wedding overflowing with joy, a funeral filled with reflection and love, or any milestone moment in between, the right song speaks directly to the soul. As an independent celebrant, Shelley Bell Celebrant knows just how transformative music can be—it grounds…
What Happens After the Funeral? A Complete Guide to the Cremation Process
When the funeral ends and family and friends say their final goodbyes, many people wonder what happens next — especially when cremation is the chosen method. Understanding the cremation process helps bring peace of mind and answers to common questions about what happens after the funeral, how a body is…
Direct Cremation – What’s All The Fuss About? The Pro’s and Con’s explained…..
What Is a Direct Cremation? A direct cremation is the most basic form of cremation. It happens without a funeral service beforehand, and without mourners present at the crematorium. The body is collected, cremated, and then the ashes are returned to the family, who can choose to commemorate their loved…
You Don’t Have to Be Buried in a Box – and Other Funeral Myths
When most people think of a funeral, they picture a casket, a cemetery, and a somber service in a crematorium chapel or church. But that’s only one version of a farewell. The truth is, funerals are as diverse as the people they honour. Whether shaped by cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs,…
Why I started my own Bereavement Group…
In this blog, I outline the reasons why I have decided to start my own bereavement friendship and support group. What’s the point? For years I have always wondered about what happens to people once I have conducted a funeral for their people. To the old folks who have…
Meet my Supplier Chums!!! Jade at Coop Funeral Care.
After my last blog which talked about personalising ceremonies, whether they are weddings or funerals, it is my pleasure this week to chat with Jade Pratt from Coop Funeral Care, St John’s Road in Colchester. The Coop has lots of different branches in various towns and cities but Jade’s team…
Reflecting Your Uniqueness in Weddings and Funerals.
Life’s most significant moments deserve to be celebrated in a way that truly reflects who you are. Whether it’s the joy of a wedding or the heartfelt farewell of a funeral, these events are deeply personal. A Celebrant-led ceremony offers a unique opportunity to craft a service that is as…
Coping with the Death of Someone by Suicide: Reflecting on Liam Payne’s Tragic Death
Coping with the Death of Someone by Suicide: Reflecting on Liam Payne’s Tragic Death. When someone you care about dies it is always painful, but when that death comes from suicide, the grief can feel overwhelming, confusing, and deeply isolating. The tragic news of Liam Payne’s death has shocked fans…
