07962 990102 and 020 8673 7349
natalie charles
humanist & non-religious
funeral celebrant
comforting ceremonies without religion
in and around south and central London
There's only one 'right' way to mark a death and celebrate a life - and that's the way that feels right to you.
Every life is different. And every funeral should be, too.
As your celebrant, I'll write and lead a ceremony that is unique,
and entirely personal.
No rigid formats. No standard words.
Instead: I'll combine your thoughts, feelings, and needs with my experience, care and creativity to create a ceremony that reflects and celebrate the person who has died - and brings you comfort in your time of loss.
comforting ceremonies...
Planning a funeral may be more than you feel
you can cope with right now...
it’s so important to get it right, isn’t it?
Because funerals matter.
A good funeral will help you come to terms with what has happened. We’ll say goodbye in a way that is meaningful to you.
I’ll support you to make the choices that feel right. And you’ll be comforted, knowing that this is a ceremony that really reflects the person who has died.
And a comforting funeral is the best funeral of all.
...without religion
Humanists are non-religious people who believe that this life is the only life we have.
We look to science, evidence, and reason to discover truths about the universe.
We place human welfare and happiness at the centre of decision making.
We find 'meaning' in our lives: in our relationships, in the things we do.
why choose
a humanist funeral?
You don't need to call yourself a humanist
to have a humanist funeral.
But if you want a funeral or memorial service
without religion, focusing on the life and qualities
of the person who has died,
a humanist ceremony is what you're looking for.
With time to reflect and space to be sad,
a humanist service can also be an uplifting, life affirming, even joyful celebration of life.
Humanists UK's excellent training carries a quality award and its ongoing support is second to none. A network of over 400 humanist celebrants means there's back-up: in the unlikely event that covid or something else means I cannot attend, your ceremony will still take place with the help of one of my trusted humanist colleagues.
Our work is covered by professional indemnity insurance
and I have been police (DBS) checked.
why choose me?
I understand funerals.
An accredited humanist celebrant and mentor since 2015, I've also been a funeral arranger and director with Poppy's, London's award-winning modern funeral director. And I've signed up to the Funeral Celebrancy Council's Celebrant Accord, so that you can be assured that my work meets the highest standards.
I'll work with you, in ways that suit you.
Regardless of your ethnicity or identity.
Whether you want something formal or relaxed, large or small, solemn or celebratory.
If you need ideas or already have plenty.
Whether it's the devastating loss of a parent, child or baby. The trauma of an accident or suicide. The sadness of a death after long-term illness. Or a celebration of life for an elderly aunt.
If you're gathering to remember a great friend, taking a boat trip to scatter ashes, or holding a memorial for a respected colleague.
Maybe it's time to plan your own funeral, or you'd like help leading a funeral for yourself.
Whatever the circumstances, I can help.
You'll find me warm, sensitive, creative and professional.
let's find some common ground...
I'm a Londoner by birth and at heart.
I share my home in Balham with two lovely teenagers and an impossibly cute dog. I have experience of family bereavement, of dementia and of profound disability.
I've worked in housing, in television, as a gardener and in science. I'm concerned about social justice and the environment. I love live music, dancing, spending time with friends, reading, and country walks.
I'm organised, experienced - and here to help.
what people say
"I wish more people knew that it’s possible
to do something a little different to celebrate their loved ones.
Finding Natalie was the very best thing that happened to us at a dreadful time.
My family cannot recommend her services as a writer and funeral celebrant highly enough."
get in touch...
to talk about comforting non-religious funerals
in south and central London
and the home counties
I'll never use your personal data for anything other than working directly with you.
That's a promise.
07962 990102 and 020 8673 7349
