Celebrants sometimes have to create funerals for people who had had complicated relationships with their families or friends. Some people leave behind relationships that were […]
Author: Vanessa Bower
What you need to Know about Cremation in South Africa
Cremation is becoming an increasingly chosen option in South Africa, particularly in urban areas such as Gauteng. For many families, it offers simplicity, flexibility and […]
Creating a Life Story: More Than Just an Obituary
When someone we love dies, we naturally want to honour their life story in a meaningful way. An obituary serves an important practical purpose: announcing […]
Simple Legal Ceremony vs Full-length Wedding: How To Choose
As a designated Marriage Officer in Gauteng, I’ve had the privilege of conducting many wedding ceremonies ~ from intimate legal signings with just two witnesses […]
When We Change Homes: Non-Religious Home Ceremonies
Introduction There are different kinds of home ceremonies, according to the situation you find yourself in. When you move out of a home, you may […]
Non-Religious Coming-of-Age Ceremonies To Meet The Need For Ritual
Introduction Coming-of-age ceremonies have long served as vital milestones, marking the transformative journey from childhood into the responsibilities of adulthood. While these transitions were historically […]
What to Expect from your First Meeting with Your Funeral Officiant
Planning a funeral, especially in the midst of grief, can feel overwhelming and the thought of meeting your officiant could be daunting. Many families aren’t […]
How to Manage Holiday Grief
Introduction The holiday season is usually portrayed as a time of joy, celebration and togetherness — but for some people holiday grief is real. When […]
Pre-marital Discussions: Have these Conversations Before You Get Married
Introduction to pre-marital discussions Pre-marital discussions are far more than a formality; they are an essential part of building a thoughtful, intentional life together. Before […]
Celebration of Life Ceremony or the Traditional Funeral: What’s the Difference?
In recent years, more families have begun choosing a Celebration of Life ceremony in place of, or in addition to, a traditional funeral. While both […]