Whatever the circumstances, our time of life, age or relationship, confronting death and the loss of someone close is seldom easy.
Life's ending, while part of living and something which comes sooner or later for us all, when faced with the reality of losing someone loved and dear to us, whether young or old, the experience felt is unique to us all. Something that can neither be quickened nor slowed, experienced for each of us in our own way and time.
As each day is precious so too will be that time together on the day - when stories are shared and all recollect, remember, and celebrate if appropriate, paying tribute and saying thank you - sharing memories and fond moments which re-tell the years, life achievements, qualities and precious moments of the one whose journey has come to an end.
In the days before the service, when meeting with you for the first time and being invited into your home - to talk with family and friends about the funeral you're all facing for the one you have lost, as your Celebrant it is a heartfelt and humbling experience.
It is my role and responsibility to help you make sure everything about the service, before and during - will enable all to express what is truly in your hearts and minds, and make sure everything goes smoothly on the day.
Planning the service - whether a funeral, memorial, commemoration or a celebration of life. Large, small or intimate - in a chapel or at the graveside, outdoors or at a large venue, whatever will be right for you all to say farewell.
My task is to guide you through each step, making sure everyone's needs are heard - and the service truly acknowledges the wishes of the one you've lost - bringing together all the details, from music to orders of service, the speakers tributes and readings - whatever is needed, all done in time we have as the day of the service draws closer.
It's best we up meet in the days (sometimes it can be longer) before the service - maybe for an hour or so, occasionally more - and I will make sure you get all the information you need.
We can meet at the funeral home, your place, or somewhere suitable - whatever will be best for everyone.
And if someone is far away, even overseas, then a telephone conversation, FT, Skype or WhatsApp can work too - along with email, text and Dropbox for documents, photos, graphics etc - whatever might need to be shared.
Together making sure the service truly reflects the one you're saying farewell too.
Importantly that the service be an occasion that is reverent, warm hearted, connecting everyone and carries humor where appropriate - from which all will leave, though with sadness - but also with a sense of being deeply moved to have been there to say goodbye with you.
I am available for funeral services, memorials and special occasions at locations across New York and Tri-States should circumstances require.
Stipend for services is $350.
Travel:
Mileage fee applies for venues from officiants residence (Beacon Hermitage). To calculate traveling expenses then GPS "Beacon Hermitage" to your venue, that mileage number x $4.00 for each mile (I charge for only one way). For venues in NYC, LI or venues over 70 miles, an additional $300 surcharge is added to cover traveling time, bridge and parking fees.
