When someone we love dies, there can be an awful lot to think about at a time when your brain may feel like it’s running on empty. There are decisions about practicalities, paperwork, flowers, music, venues, transport and a whole host of things you probably didn’t have on your to-do…
Tag: Funeral
How Much Does a Celebrant Cost? Understanding the True Value of a Bespoke Celebrant Ceremony
How much does a celebrant cost? It is one of the first questions many couples, families and loved ones ask when they start planning a wedding, funeral, naming ceremony or celebration of life. And quite rightly. Budgets matter. Weddings cost money, funerals need to be planned carefully and most of…
What Does a Funeral Celebrant Do?
When someone we love dies, the world can feel as though it tilts slightly off its axis. In those moments, clarity, compassion, and gentle guidance matter more than ever. This is where a funeral celebrant steps in, not just as an organiser of ceremonies, but as a steady hand and…
The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying: Life Lessons That Shape Meaningful Ceremonies
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.…
A Year of Growth, Gratitude and Gorgeous Ceremonies: What Shelley Bell Celebrant Learned & Achieved in 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting on what has been one of the most fulfilling, transformative, and heart-stretching years of my celebrancy journey. Every ceremony I’ve crafted—whether a wedding, naming, renewal of vows, funeral or memorial—has brought me something new to learn, someone new to love,…
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…
Meet my supplier Chums!!! Susie from Wivenhoe Flowers
In this Blog we welcome another of my supplier chums, Susie from Wivenhoe Flowers to answer my probing questions about who she is and what she does. I first meet Susie at a wedding fair and was struck by her beautiful floral arrangements that were all grown by her fair…
