“Thank you for everything you did for our Celebration of Life day. Many people came up to me after and during the event, and were simply moved by how wonderful you were - they could not believe that you personally were not a friend. I can not thank you enough for your time, and wonderful words of peace and comfort.”
Whatever the circumstances that have lead you to explore my services, I want to say, I got you. I have been supporting individuals and families through significant life transitions since 1996, and worked in the counselling field for two decades. Each and every person I encounter in my work experiences death, grief and loss in their own unique ways, and I am here to support you through a significant component of that journey – memorializing someone significant in your life.
What matters to you, is what matters to me
After you contact me, I will send a short questionnaire to begin getting a sense of how I can be of assistance. We’ll schedule a time to talk in person or virtually, and you may bring with you anyone that may lend you comfort during our meeting, or would like contribute their ideas to the ceremony. During our time together, we will move at your pace to plan a ceremony that suits the tone and temperament of your loved one. I invite families to share at the level they feel comfortable, and I prioritize your well-being every step of the way. I place the needs of the bereaved person(s) above any personal agenda I may have for our meeting. What matters to you, is what matters to me. Sorting out your ideas can take some time and gentle guidance to sort through while mourning. None of this you need to figure out on your own. I follow your lead, and I don’t make assumptions or judgements about your loved one or your relationship with them. All feelings are valid, and no feeling is final.
Memories bring back memories, bring back memories...
During our first meeting, you’re invited to simply start where you’d like. To break the ice, I usually ask for you to bring to mind your most vivid memory of your loved one you’d want to share with me. Sometimes, it’s a song that best describes a loved one, or a favourite movie or quote. With your permission I will take notes to help me capture important details. In situations where recalling memories is not appropriate to the death, I will simply ask you to begin with your intention for the celebration – what’s most important for you to share with me is what I most need to hear. I want you to know that I can hold any memories that may surface during our planning process, whatever those memories may be. I hold them as sacred recollections of your particular relationship with the decedent. The information you share with me is confidential, unless you give me permission to share as appropriate in the celebration.
Together, we will share their unique story
After we meet, I will write a draft of the ceremony according to your wishes, and offer some readings or reflections I think suit the person you are honouring. Any important religious or cultural beliefs and practices can be weaved into the celebration. I will assist any loved ones, including children, who'd like to participate, such as accompanying them through writing and delivering a Eulogy, or assist them to write a personal reflection to be included in the celebration. The people closest to the deceased will have the final say over the content of the ceremony. Where there may be disagreements between family members, to the best of my ability, I will facilitate a process that leads to a positive resolution. Where times permits, we will meet one more time to review the ceremony and other final details you may have about the day.
Long gone are one-size-fits-all celebrations of life. Just as your loved one was one of a kind, so too can be their celebration. With deep caring, compassion and creativity, I will you tell their stories to pay homage to their legacy and brings comfort to the bereaved.
"How very fortunate my family was that Jodi agreed to do our recent Celebration of Life for a loved one we lost last month, Compassion, caring, professionalism, warmth, understanding and totally grateful are just a few words that quickly come to mind to describe the experience"
Fees for the celebration of life planning and officiating begin at $350.00. No person will be turned away based on finances alone.
