Your trusted civil celebrant partner
Personal, meaningful ceremonies. Every time. A seamless, respectful extension of your service.
When you refer a celebrant, you need someone who treats your families with empathy and professionalism and reflects your reputation with care.
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I’m Richard Smart, a modern civil celebrant with a background in communications and storytelling. With over 15 years’ experience creating meaningful narratives, I now deliver funeral ceremonies that are warm, respectful, and thoughtfully written for each individual, never just copy and paste.
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I know you may already have celebrants you know and trust, but if you ever have a family you feel I’d be a great fit for, I’d love the chance to support them. I’m ready, reliable, and keen to become one of your preferred celebrants.
Why work with me?
Before becoming a celebrant, I led communications and events for national brands and community teams, always focused on clarity, compassion, and connection. I bring that same standard into every ceremony I deliver.
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I trained with one of the UK’s leading organisations, The Fellowship of Professional Celebrants, where I was recognised early on for my empathy, professionalism, and natural gift for storytelling.​
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“Richard truly shone during his Funeral Celebrancy training - his natural ability to connect with people, and then craft and deliver ceremonies was remarkable. His eulogy presentation gave me goosebumps, and the congregation were completely captivated and moved. He has an exceptional amount to offer to both bereaved families and the funeral profession alike, and as his trainer, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him."
Terri Negus, Celebrant Trainer with over 20 years’ experience in the funeral industry
What you can expect from me
Quick to respond
Available 24/7. I’ll get back to you within three working hours or first thing the next morning if out of hours.
Fast contact with families
I’ll reach out to the next of kin within 24 hours of your referral, introducing myself and planning the family meeting.
Clear, regular updates
You’ll always know where things stand, from music choices to final script sign-off with clear, timely communication throughout.
Collaborative and respectful
I treat every family with empathy and professionalism, and always work in step with your team and processes.
Flexible meetings
I’m happy to meet families at their home, at your offices, or virtually whatever works best for them. Based in Poole, Dorset and Newquay, Cornwall, I cover much of the South West, including Bournemouth, Christchurch and Ringwood to the East, and as far as Falmouth, Truro and Penzance to the West.
Never overbooked
I limit the number of ceremonies I take to ensure each one receives the time, care and attention it deserves.
Services shared in advance
The service or eulogy is always shared with the family ahead of time no surprises, just peace of mind.
A keepsake after the service
Each family receives a printed presentation copy of the eulogy a lasting tribute to their loved one.
Guidance without pressure
I offer support, options and ideas but the family’s wishes always come first.
Inclusive and non-judgemental
I’m happy to include religious elements if requested, but never assume or impose every ceremony is led by the client.
Modern, meaningful ceremonies
No tired clichés or templates. Every word is crafted from scratch with warmth and relevance.
A trusted extension of your team
I understand that referrals are a reflection of your brand. You can trust me to represent you with care, polish and professionalism.
Always human
Warmth, kindness, and a gentle sense of humour are part of the service, because that’s what people remember.