Marking Moments. With Love & Care
Those big moments of life can be filled with joy, or sorrow. And how people mark those moments is deeply personal to them, from the flambouyant to the understated and private, with huge gatherings, to just a few intimate friends or family. From all faiths, or none, the need to express ourselves at these significant points is primal. They matter, as do their symbols. For me, my wedding ring carries all my heart and love for Dawn. As a former professional dancer, I understand the unspoken expressions of those rituals, from hello to goodbye. While serving as a headteacher, particularly at St Paul’s Cathedral School, I was a living part of the power of tradition and ceremony in all those moments of wonder, and of sadness. Through Life Narratives®, I bring these experiences together to support you in how you want to celebrate life, from births, to weddings to farewells. I also bring the assurance of being a member of the International College of Professional Celebrants.
Why create Life Narratives®?
Individual stories are powerful. Not that they simply tell a story, or tell a story simply, but because they contribute to a collective story in which many people have a place.
To hear them, we must listen. First seek to understand.
You might also be interested in my Executive Coaching services.
What people say about Simon
FAQs
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Supporting you and finding the right celebrant
My role is to support you and shape a ceremony that reflects what matters most to you. I keep my schedule simple – only one ceremony a day – so I can give you my full attention and be fully present when it counts. I’m happy to talk about any occasion you’d like to mark in a meaningful way; if it matters to you, it’s worth a conversation.
My style is flexible, ranging from traditional and formal to relaxed or imaginative. Together, we’ll find an approach that feels right for you, and that might include coordinating tone, structure, or even clothing to suit the setting.
Over the years I’ve worked with people in many walks of life, including those in high-profile roles and in the public eye, and so you can rely on complete discretion. There are many celebrants to choose from, and finding someone you feel at ease with is essential. If that isn’t me, I’ll happily point you in another direction. If you’d like to start with an informal, no-obligation chat, you can get in touch here.
Making it yours through conversation
The heart of a personalised ceremony lies in the time we spend talking and listening to one another. Our first conversations help me understand who you are, what you value, and how you want the occasion to feel. From there, everything is shaped around your voice and your priorities.
The scripting begins with a thoughtful discussion where I ask questions designed to draw out the details, stories, and atmosphere you want reflected. I’ll always be honest – if there’s something I’m not able to do, I’ll tell you clearly and help find an alternative.
Finding the right words
Creating the ceremony words is something we do together, at a pace and level of involvement that suits you. While I am a professional writer, some people prefer that I write the full script; others enjoy crafting parts of it themselves. Either way, I’ll guide the process, ask questions that help clarify your ideas, and shape the ceremony so it feels authentic to you.
You will always have the final say. You’ll see the words in advance, have time to reflect on it, and make any changes you need so that the ceremony feels entirely yours.
Help and Guidance
Beyond writing the ceremony, I can help with many of the elements that bring the experience to life – whether that’s supporting you with vows, tributes, or eulogies, or offering suggestions for readings, music, rituals, or cultural touches that hold meaning for you. These ideas usually emerge naturally through our conversations.
If others are contributing, I’m happy to speak with them directly to help everything flow smoothly. And if it’s useful, I can connect with coordinators or organisers involved in the wider event so that everyone is aligned and the ceremony fits seamlessly into the day.
The Costs
Pricing Information
Pricing varies depending on your requirements. Travel may incur additional cost.
Funerals & Memorials – from £280
Other ceremonies – POA – Contact for further info
Additional expenses, for example if you need me to supply specific items, to be agreed in advance and will be charged at cost.