Independent Civil Celebrant - Your Ceremony, Your Way
As an independent civil celebrant, I specialize in providing personalized funeral services and memorial services that honor the unique lives of individuals.
My Story
Hi, my name is Elaine. Thank you for visiting my website. I hope to have the honour of meeting you and walking beside you on whichever journey life is taking you on at this moment.
I reside in Aberdeenshire with my husband and our dogs. I value opportunities to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups. With a grounded approach and a keen interest in listening to others' experiences, I have developed a deep appreciation for meaningful stories. My personal experience with grief led me to support others within the funeral services industry, which ultimately inspired me to continue my education and pursue a vocation as a civil celebrant.
I trained with Neil Dorward and Annie Scrimgeour at the 'Celebrant Training Academy Scotland,' and I passed with Distinction.
I take pride in designing ceremonies that reflect the individuality of each person or significant life event, including memorial services, ensuring that every occasion is thoughtfully tailored to your needs.
Ceremonies ought to represent our identities, acknowledge the impact we have on others, and commemorate significant moments for lasting remembrance.
WHy Choose a celebrant?
If you wish to acknowledge significant milestones in life with a personalised approach that highlights your individuality and move beyond traditions that may not align with your values, engaging a civil celebrant for your ceremonies, including funeral services or memorial services, may be an ideal choice.
Civil funerals, facilitated by civil celebrants, began in Australia in 1973. Since then, the world has slowly begun to realize that funerals and all memorial services should reflect what people wish, need, and want.
Celebrants differ from civil celebrants in that civil celebrants may provide spiritual content, while Humanists are atheists and therefore cannot. They cannot say that your loved ones are now reunited with family members in heaven. They also cannot say that your baby is 'resting in the arms of angels,' nor can they incorporate music with any spiritual connection, such as Robbie Williams' 'Angels,' during funeral services or memorial services.
One of the most significant advantages of choosing a civil celebrant is the absence of rigid guidelines or restrictions. With a civil celebrant, your ceremony can be tailored entirely to your wishes, whether you desire religious, semi-religious, or completely non-religious funeral services or memorial services.
The content and format of your ceremony are entirely up to you, especially when working with a civil celebrant. For example, you might choose a traditional hymn to begin the ceremony, followed by a favorite song to conclude the occasion. This flexibility ensures that your memorial services or funeral services are a true reflection of your personality, beliefs, and preferences, creating a meaningful and memorable experience.
This poem by fellow Celebrant Gwyn Davies beautifully explains the essence of our work as civil celebrants. While it describes our funeral services, the same principles apply to any memorial services you wish for me to craft.
Celebrant, celebrant, what is it you do?
I'm a little old fashioned and haven't a clue.
Celebrant, celebrant, what is it you do?
Are you religious, or is that taboo?
Who is your target, where is your goal?
I'm a little confused, as to what is your role?
Are you religious, or the atheist sort,
I'm a bit in the dark and need to be taught.
Well, let me enlighten, I'll try to explain,
I'm there as a person to ease the pain.
It isn't about me or any belief,
I help the loved ones with their grief.
There's more than two options, to help people through,
So I'll try to explain, what us civil celebrants do.
We take an approach, with a personal touch,
For loved ones in need of the help for a crutch.
Some aren't religious, but still want a prayer,
Or even a hymn, and we're happy to share.
It just doesn't matter what our belief,
We'll use an approach, that helps bring belief.
So as you can see, it's not black or white,
We offer funeral services that we just make right.
Right for the person, whose life has passed on,
And try to help those hurting, as their loved one has gone.
We tick all the boxes, some people say,
We make it special, in our own unique way.
Times are changing, changing so fast,
We must try to move forward, not stuck in the past.
To help bring comfort, is our real aim,
Each memorial service is special, no two the same.
Happy to meet to discuss what we do,
At a time or a place chosen by you.
Compassionate Celebrant Services
Funeral Services
As a civil celebrant, I provide personalised funeral services that honour and celebrate the life of your loved one. Working closely with family and friends, I create a meaningful ceremony that reflects the individual’s personality, values, beliefs, and life story. Whether you prefer traditional or contemporary memorial services, with religious elements included or entirely non-religious, the service is carefully written and delivered with dignity, warmth, and respect.
--£220-£250--
Stillborn, Infants & Under 18's Funeral Services
The loss of a baby or young person is deeply heartbreaking, and every family’s grief is unique. As a civil celebrant, I offer gentle, compassionate support to help create a ceremony that honors your child’s life, however brief it may have been. Together, we can design meaningful and sensitive funeral services or memorial services that allow family and friends to remember, acknowledge love, and say goodbye in a way that feels right for you. --No Fee Applies--
Memorial Services
Scattering of Ashes
A memorial service, often facilitated by a civil celebrant, provides an opportunity to celebrate and remember a loved one’s life. These services are typically held after a private funeral or at a time that suits family and friends. I work with you to create a thoughtful and personal ceremony that reflects cherished memories, stories, and the lasting impact of the person you are remembering, ensuring that the funeral services are meaningful and heartfelt.
Scattering of Ashes
Scattering of Ashes
Scattering ashes can be a peaceful and symbolic way to say a final goodbye. As a civil celebrant, I create simple, respectful memorial services that mark this moment with meaning, reflection, and remembrance. Whether held at a favorite place or a special location chosen by the family, the ceremony can include readings, memories, and quiet moments to honor your loved one. This approach is an integral part of the funeral services I provide, ensuring that each farewell is uniquely personal and meaningful.
Pet Memorial Services
Pets are cherished members of our families, bringing companionship, comfort, and unconditional love. A pet memorial ceremony, organized by a civil celebrant, provides a chance to acknowledge their importance and celebrate the joy they brought into our lives. I can help you create a heartfelt tribute through our memorial services that honor your beloved companion and the special bond you shared.
Renewal of Vows, Commitment & Anniversary Ceremonies
Whether you are celebrating a milestone anniversary, renewing your wedding vows, or marking a commitment to one another, I create joyful ceremonies as a civil celebrant that reflect your unique relationship. These occasions offer a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your journey together, reaffirm your love, and share meaningful moments with family and friends. Additionally, I also provide funeral services and memorial services to honor loved ones with the same care and dedication.
Naming Ceremonies & Life Celebration
Naming Ceremonies & Life Celebration
Naming Ceremonies & Life Celebration
Naming ceremonies and life celebrations are beautiful ways to welcome a child or celebrate an important life milestone. These ceremonies can include promises from parents, family members or mentors, symbolic rituals, and personal readings, often facilitated by a civil celebrant. Each ceremony is thoughtfully designed to reflect your family’s values, hopes, and the joy of the occasion, similar to how funeral services and memorial services honor the lives of loved ones.
Contact Us
Elaine Geekie Celebrant
8 Hareburn Terrace, Bridge of Don, Blackdog, Aberdeen
Call: +44 (0) 7375672485
