Di Gilbranch, helping families say farewell to their loved ones across Essex and Suffolk.
A funeral alone may not be enough to say goodbye to a loved one. You may want to have a memorial service shortly after a Direct Cremation, or you may prefer a more intimate funeral with close family only. If you feel you would like to include a further tribute in a way that is fitting and meaningful, a memorial service (often called a celebration of life) can be a lovely way to gather everyone together.
The funeral could be for close family, with the memorial service open to extended family, friends and colleagues. It provides a time for reflection and celebration and as your celebrant, I’m here to help you organise a service that feels right for you and your loved one.
I’ve led memorial services throughout Essex, Suffolk and the surrounding areas, taking me to a variety of venues, each providing a meaningful setting for saying goodbye.
If you’d like to talk things through or ask any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. There’s no pressure or obligation.
Call me on 07812 371590 or fill out my enquiry form.
“The service was lovely. Dad didn’t like a fuss — he preferred to focus on others — and your words reflected the kind of person he was. We were all very pleased with how things went. I know Dad would have wanted to thank you for making our lives a little easier at a difficult time.”
A memorial service or celebration of life is a ceremony to honour and remember someone who has died, but unlike a traditional funeral, it usually takes place after the burial or cremation. There is no coffin present, and there is often more freedom around timing, location, and tone. It can be just as personal and heartfelt, and allows time to plan something meaningful.
Absolutely. What makes a memorial special is the space it creates to share stories, reflect on someone’s life and come together as a group. Some families include photos, music or symbolic gestures. While the ashes may or may not be present, the absence of a coffin can sometimes help the day feel lighter and more focused on celebration.
I’m happy to support you from start to finish. That includes helping shape the content of the ceremony, liaising with venues, and making sure everything runs smoothly on the day. Or, if you already have the practicalities covered, I can simply focus on writing and delivering the ceremony itself.
There is no set timeframe. Some people wait a few weeks to allow for planning and travel. Others choose a date that holds special meaning, like a birthday or anniversary. What matters most is finding a moment that feels right for you and your family.
Absolutely. Some of the most moving memorials I’ve led have been small, quiet gatherings. What matters is the intention behind it, giving people a space to connect, remember, and say what they need to say. A small service can feel incredibly warm and personal.
Yes, many families choose to pair the memorial with a moment like scattering ashes or planting a tree. It can be a powerful way to close the ceremony or give it a symbolic gesture. I’ll help you plan it so everything flows naturally and respectfully.
I’ll always stay nearby to check in and offer support. Some families like to chat afterwards, others prefer a quieter moment. I’ll follow your lead. I’m there to hold the space with you, not just to deliver and disappear.
