Since 2005 I have been offering my services as a freelance celebrant for people wishing to mark the significant rites of passage in their lives in a way which is thoughtful and creative, possibly spiritual, but not religious in any dogmatic way.  My message is an empowering one - that where there is a lack of good ritual, we have the resources to create our own.  My training has mostly been the University of Experience, but I also attended a course for celebrants with Sue Gill at Welfare State International, in Ullverston.  (For more of the story of what led me to offer ceremonies, see About)

I have made ceremonies to celebrate birthdays, weddings, book launches, becoming a mother, naming a baby and a ‘croning’, for a friend turning 60.  I have also made a divorce ritual (my own), which was extremely powerful and healing.  In the course of researching my book Birthrites - Rituals and Celebrations for the Child-bearing Years, I learnt about hundreds of events and small rituals created by others, from which I also draw inspiration.

Whether you need just a few ideas and advice for an event you will run yourself, or whether you would like me to lead a ceremony, I am happy to help. My experience is that the time and effort we invest in these events is repaid fully by the benefit they bring to ourselves, our families and our communities. I work alongside other celebrants, and am happy to recommend another practitioner if I feel they would be better able to help you.

I also offer talks and workshops on the subject of creating ceremony.

Meditation in Pregnancy

In the midst of all the changes and challenges of pregnancy, this is a time for mums and dads-to-be to relax, breathe deeply and connect with your baby. There is no ongoing class currently, but please contact me if you would like to set up a small group in Oxford.

Mother Blessings 

Much more than a baby shower, this is an occasion to strengthen and celebrate the mother-to-be as she prepares for birth and moves into her new role.

Baby Namings

An alternative to a religious service, a naming ceremony might include naming the child, appointing guardians or spiritual guides, making pledges and giving blessings.

Coming of Age

The whole journey through puberty to adulthood is ripe for exploration and celebration, and this is the area I am currently researching for my next book.  If you have a story to tell of a coming of age rite of passage I would love to hear from you!

Weddings

Designing your own wedding is a rich opportunity to explore the meaning of this ritual for you and your partner, and set yourselves out on a course that you both affirm.  A civil ceremony is also necessary, if you want to make the marriage legally binding. 

Divorce

Ending a relationship is a powerful transition, but it does not have to be full of blame and acrimony.  A simple divorce ritual, especially if it can be witnessed by some of those who witnessed the marriage, gives a respectful form for cutting the ties. 

Funerals

I currently don’t offer funerals, but I heartily recommend Tess Ward, who has much experience in this area. 

Other ceremonies

Please contact me if you would like help with any other celebration or ritual.