Living funerals: celebrating life while we still can

More and more people are choosing to celebrate their lives while they’re still here to enjoy it. A living funeral or celebration of life held before death, is a powerful, moving way to connect with loved ones, reflect on the journey so far, and hear the kind of things we too often leave unsaid until it’s too late.

It’s a chance to say thank you, I love you, I forgive you, or simply I’ve had a good life.And, unlike a traditional funeral, you get to be there.

What is a living funeral?

A living funeral is a personalised ceremony designed to honour someone nearing the end of their life. Unlike a memorial service held after someone has died, this gathering happens while the person is still alive. It might feel reflective, joyful, bittersweet or even uplifting—but always deeply human.

The person at the heart of the event is often involved in shaping it, choosing music, readings or rituals that feel meaningful. It can be simple or elaborate, spiritual or secular, private or shared with a room full of people.

Why people are choosing them

Living funerals are growing in popularity in the UK, especially following recent BBC features and advocacy from palliative care experts.

They offer

• Connection – a chance to gather loved ones while time and energy allow

• Closure – to say what matters most, in your own words

• Celebration – to mark a life well lived, your way

• Legacy – to leave memories, not just milestones

For many, it’s about taking control and making peace, with others, with life, and with what comes next.

How I can help

As a professional celebrant with 15 years’ experience in storytelling and communication, I’m here to help you shape a ceremony that feels true to you.

I’ll gently guide you through the process, listen carefully to what matters most, and create a space where love, humour, honesty and meaning can shine.

This isn’t about dull timelines or clichés, it’s your story, spoken smartly.

What a living funeral might include

No two ceremonies are the same. But your living funeral could include;

• Words from loved ones

• A personal tribute or eulogy

• Music, poems, or shared memories

• A quiet moment of reflection

• A toast, a song, or even a dance

  
  

Together, we’ll create something unique and memorable—something that feels like you.

Let’s talk

Whether you’re planning your own celebration or supporting someone you love, I’m here to help you get started with care and confidence.

Living funerals are still a new idea for many, but they’re full of beauty, meaning and choice.

If you'd like to talk about creating a living funeral in Dorset, Cornwall, get in touch

I'm happy to answer questions, chat through ideas, and see if this is the right path for you.

Because saying goodbye doesn’t have to wait.

Sometimes the most powerful moments are the ones we share now.