Pluen Celebrancy

03/06/2026

When my wife and I were first together, getting married wasn't an option for us - it wasn't legally allowed in Cymru/Wales. I remember sobbing the day the law changed knowing that our love was, at long last, considered equal and decent in the eyes of the law. A year and a half later, we married. We had a legal ceremony at Tredomen Registry Office with our parents present and then a big celebratory ceremony the following weekend with the whole family and our friends. Our friend Dan stood in as our Celebrant.

For over a third of my life I was considered a lesser person. I cannot tell you how important visibility and celebration is in removing the stigma and the shame of being 'other'. No one should feel like a lesser person and that is is why we celebrate Pride month.

If you are planning your wedding, you want a Celebrant who knows how important it is to be able to celebrate your love and yourselves as honestly and openly as you can. Why not get in touch to see if I can help you do that.

Happy Pride Month to all members of the community and to our allies 🏳️‍🌈

28/05/2026

Sitting in Sirhowy Valley Crematorium where this afternoon's service takes place. I have a fondness for ducks so have popped down to the memorial lake to say hello.
I always arrive at least an hour early for services. Not only does it mean I'm here on time but it gives me a chance to have a final read through, check the music and Chapel is ready...and to have that final nervous wee! More than anything, though, it gives me some time to think of the individual whose life we are celebrating: to contemplate all they've done and who they were. Being the one who helps people say goodbye is a huge honour and I don't take it lightly. Taking those few minutes to step aside and remember who we're saying goodbye to is a vital and respectful part of my preparation. And what a lovely setting to do it in today.

21/05/2026

Are you confused about what a celebrant can and can’t say?

I’m often asked how I was able to (for example) say a prayer, mention the afterlife or talk about the comforting presence of butterflies when meeting people after a service. Many people are unaware that not all Celebrants are Humanists and that you don’t have to be in a Church or Chapel to have religious elements (like hymns) included.

I consider myself to be a spiritual person, but my beliefs aren’t what’s important. I align myself with what YOU want. That will include…

• As much, or as little, spirituality as you want
• Words and terminology that are in keeping with the individuals’ beliefs and that are comforting or special to you
• A personalised service where the focus is on the individual.

Essentially, my job is to tell a story the way you want it told.
If you’ve got any questions, ask away: I’m always happy to chat.

13/05/2026

I’m sure you’re aware that forget-me-nots are a symbol of enduring love and remembrance. I wore a broach of these flowers in my lapel today and during today’s service, the family had arranged for the Funeral Director to distribute forget-me-not seeds to all members of the immediate and extended family so they can grow these pretty flowers in their gardens in memory of their loved one.
It was a such a special moment and a beautiful way to remember such a wonderful individual.

08/05/2026

So pleased to have been able to help this family in their bereavement. Thank you for your kind words, Kevin - it was an honour to be there with and for you as we said goodbye to someone so special.

30/04/2026

Whether celebrating a new union or saying goodbye, poems are a wonderful way of expressing emotions and describing our bonds. For those who wish to include some poetry in their services but who haven't come across the right poem yet...worry not, I have a little help when it comes to finding just the right thing for each individual - one of many poetry book shelves here at Pluen Celebrancy HQ.

22/04/2026

This week is filled with family meetings and writing services for their loved ones. It's such a privilege to be the one to help people say goodbye. Having writers block, therefore, can be terrifying! But stepping away from the desk, getting out into nature and listening to the music the family have chosen for the service all help to get me back on track.

When I stepped away from the desk today, I walked here.

15/04/2026

I was doing some indoor gardening yesterday; planting seeds to grow on the windowsill until they're ready to go out into the garden. This poem came to mind - I thought it worth sharing.
Let's not wait until a celebration or a goodbye to say nice things about each other...

09/04/2026

Are you welcoming a new chick into your life soon? New birth, adoption, step child...every family deserves a bespoke and unique celebration to welcome precious new members into their lives. If you don't feel that a Christening is right for you but still want to publicly bestow a name, offer blessings, and celebrate; I can help.

https://www.pluencelebrancy.cymru/name-giving/

05/04/2026