When you are planning life’s moments of both joy and tears you sometimes need someone outside of the family and friends who can calmly and professionally support you with empathy.
That’s what I’m here for.
Joanna Dalby
Independent Celebrant
Your voice for life’s happiest and hardest moments
Weddings
Some people are fortunate enough to find the one person they love so deeply that they choose to spend the rest of their lives together. When that decision is made, it brings with it such excitement, joy, and hope for the future.
As your celebrant, I will take the time to get to know you both — and your families too, if you wish — so that I can truly understand your journey together. I will carefully craft a ceremony that tells your story in a way that feels authentic, heartfelt, and meaningful, sharing it with your friends and family in the way you want it to be told.
If you would like to include symbolic rituals to further strengthen your union, I can guide you through options such as handfasting, sand blending, and other beautiful traditions, which we can explore together when we meet.
On your special day, I will be there to welcome your guests, be with you throughout the ceremony and tell your story allowing you to relax and fully enjoy every moment.of what will be the happiest day of your life.
Vow Renewals
It may be a milestone anniversary, a chance to share your love with family and friends who were not present at your original wedding ceremony, or a way to celebrate having come through a challenging time together. These are just some of the many beautiful reasons why you may choose to reaffirm your commitment to one another — to pause, reflect on your journey, and celebrate the strength of the bond you share.
I will meet with you to create a unique celebration that reflects your journey together. Whether you would like support in writing your own vows or prefer me to craft them for you, your words will be personal and meaningful. I can also design a special ceremony or ritual to accompany your vows. Every detail — including the style and location — will be entirely your choice.
Naming Ceremonies
Welcoming a new baby is a moment worth celebrating — and celebrating your way.
If a formal christening doesn’t feel right, perhaps because you’re not religious or come from different faith backgrounds, a naming ceremony offers a beautiful, non-religious alternative. It’s a meaningful way to introduce your newborn, celebrate the blending of families, or warmly welcome an adopted child into your lives.
I will work closely with you to learn about your family’s story and your guest of honour’s life so far, creating a heartfelt ceremony that joyfully welcomes them into the love and support of their family and community.
Funerals
Losing someone you love is one of the hardest experiences we face in life. It is a profound sadness that, at some point, touches us all. When we are grieving, it can feel almost impossible to find the words to express how much that person meant to us — the impact they had on our lives, the way they lived, and how deeply they will be missed.
I will spend time with you and your family, gently listening and learning about the person we are honouring — what made them unique, what brought them joy, and the special memories you hold close. Together, we will create a tribute that truly reflects their life and spirit, helping you to say your final goodbye in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
On the day of the funeral, I will be by your side to offer guidance and support, ensuring that the words spoken are the ones you want to be heard, delivered with care, dignity, and compassion.
Memorial Services
A Memorial Service provides a further opportunity to honour those who have died. Maybe the funeral was family only and you wish to invite a wider group of friends and family to say their farewells; or you simply wish for a broader reflection of your loved one’s life.
I can draft and deliver the service in any setting of your choice. Friends and family can share stories and give all attending a deeper insight into the person they knew.
Pet Funerals
Having had pets throughout my life, I truly understand the pain of losing them. They are family, and their absence is felt deeply.
I will take the time to learn about your beloved pet’s life, their personality, and the joy they brought, creating heartfelt words to honour and celebrate them with all who knew and loved them.
Joanna Dalby
Independent Celebrant