Ask a Celebrant

In this episode Berni and Dinah talk about direct cremations. There has been an increase in these services and our concern is that the long-term implications are not really explained, or considered, when these are recommended. Join us as we talk about what a direct cremation is, who to speak to about arranging one that feels caring and appropriate and what you can do to make sure those left behind...

In this episode Berni and Dinah talk about their experience working with families who have specific or special needs.  Death is a very challenging time for everyone, and if you consider additional needs for those with a disability or who live with challenges, it can be highly traumatic. We look at ideas and little ways we, in the profession, can do better. To connect with Dinah and see what she&ap...

In this episode, Berni and Dinah met in Llandovery town square to support a community event. It leads to an unscripted (as always) chat about community and how much it matters to us. Community is such a massive support at times of grief, too and we talk about how we noticed the way our rural community comes together for each other at times like this. Community is about the best of times too, like...

Welcome to Ask a Celebrant with Berni and Dinah. In this episode we're talking about the myth that there is a season for weddings - amongst other things. We'd encourage you to choose when you celebrate based on your own desires and whim - not those of marketing messages! Did you go against the wedding season myth and have an autumnul or winter ceremony? We'd love to hear what your e...

This month, we're talking about the impact that our self-talk and the media, have on our body confidence. We both hear 'I want to lose weight before the ceremony' from so many of our couples. It's sad. Especially when you consider that you've just been asked to spend the rest of your life with someone, and you think 'they'll love me more if I could lose some weig...

We met at The Castle Hotel in Llandovery and had the most gorgeous lunch as we talked about life celebrations. It may seem strange to talk about the end of life and include moments of laughter and joy. But what's the point in it all, if we don't celebrate those we have lost? We understand that grief is a very personal experience. We all need different support and there is no right or wro...

In this month's episode, Berni and Dinah are talking about reasons to celebrate. From the smallest to the biggest, there are many occasions in our lives that deserve to be noticed, to be acknowledged and to be celebrated. We'd love to hear from you with your ideas for reasons to celebrate, to help us create the list of 101 reasons to celebrate. And we'd love to hear about what you&a...

This month, Berni and Dinah are talking about the White Paper on Wedding Law Reform and what it might mean for couples considering marriage. You can find out more about the campaign here:  https://independentcelebrants.com/legalising-celebrant-weddings-campaign-for-change/  And here is the letter you can personalise to your MP to ensure they are aware of the differences between the types of Celebr...

We're not very good at talking about death in our culture. We're getting better at it, but to be honest, it's not healthy to avoid this very important topic. In this episode, we're talking about difficult conversations and how to start making them easier. There's information on Dulas and how their work is helping many people to prepare for their death with dignity and care...

Our pets are part of our families.  They are often our best friends. They show unconditional love and we are so fortunate to have such trusting and important relationships. When a pet dies, it can be a very challenging time. Friends and family often don't know how to react. In this episode we talk about the loss of a pet, and the very recent loss for Dinah and her family, of their beloved dog...

To connect with Dinah and see what she's currently speaking/training about visit her website: celebranttrainer or connect on LinkedIn  To connect with Berni visit her website bernib or connect on LinkedIn Contact Berni at:  https://www.bernib.co.uk/ Contact Dinah at: https://www.gratefulcelebrant.com/

Welcome to the third episode of Ask a Celebrant with Berni and Dinah and in this episode we're exploring some of the ways we can help you mark key moments and events in your life. From  welcoming a new member of the family to marking a significant milestone in your relationship, a Celebrant can work with you to create a ceremony for it. If it's worth marking, then do it properly! To conn...

Welcome to episode two of Ask a Celebrant with Berni and Dinah. In this episode, we're talking about the impact that the last couple of years has had on many people who had to cancel their wedding plans. We've heard from stressed and concerned couples who don't want to go through it all again - only to be dissapointed. So, we're talking about the alternatives. And as Independen...

Welcome to the first episode of Ask a Celebrant with Berni and Dinah. In this episode, we are looking at what a Celebrant is and does. We're often asked what type of work we do and what that means. We are both Independent Celebrants and we're delighted to be bringing you a monthly conversation where we answer your questions. Do send us your questions for future episodes. We'd love t...