I would rather have questions that can’t be answered than answers that can’t be questioned.
Richard Feynman
What is the process for arranging a funeral?
You can either book me directly or I might be recommended by a Funeral Director. We would then have a meeting, either in person or online, where I will get to know as much as possible about the deceased, and we can discuss the arrangements. I can advise on your choices of music, readings and any other elements, and I am happy to give feedback on a eulogy.
I will then prepare a bespoke ceremony that reflects the character and interests of the deceased, while also focussing on the living.
What is the process for arranging a wedding?
If you’re interested in booking me as a celebrant, we would have an initial conversation to see if we are a good match. After that, if you book me, I will send you a questionnaire to think about what you would like for your wedding and we would have a longer meeting to discuss the ceremony. I would gather details about your story as a couple to weave into the script, and we would also discuss any symbolic rituals or other bespoke elements for your wedding.
I would then draft a script for the ceremony which I would share with you closer to the day, and make amendments based on your feedback.
I am also happy to give you advice on music and readings, and give you feedback on your vows.
Can independent celebrants conduct legal weddings?
No, a wedding by an independent celebrant gives you all the flexibility to design the perfect ceremony to reflect your commitment, but they are not legally binding. You would need to have an additional basic service conducted by a registrar for the marriage to be legally recognised. For that reason, independent celebrants cannot include legal phrases such as ‘I now pronounce you man and wife’.
The government is looking at the reform of wedding law in 2026, however, so this may change and you may be able to have your perfect ceremony that is also legally binding. Watch this space…
How much do you charge?
Funerals start at £250 for writing and officiating a standard 30 minute funeral service. Longer services and Celebrations of Life may cost more depending on the length and complexity of the service.
Weddings start at £750 for a standard ceremony lasting 45-60 minutes including my script and preparing a symbolic ritual. Longer services or services that involve more complex elements (for example, in particularly unusual locations, or requiring specialist input) may carry additional costs, to be discussed at the outset.
In addition to writing and delivering the basic ceremony, additional services are available at extra cost. For both funerals and weddings, I can write original poetry, perform music or arrange for live musicians.
For weddings, there is an additional fee for attending rehearsals where required. For funerals, I am also happy to write the eulogy at an extra cost.
What areas do you cover?
I am based in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire and focus on delivering ceremonies in any part of Yorkshire, though I am more than happy to travel further afield.
Do you charge for travel?
Travel is included for all bookings within 30 miles. Beyond that, I charge 45p per mile for travel for the ceremony, for meetings, rehearsals and required site visits.
Dave Calvert: The Community Celebrant 