Yolanda Clarke | Family & Funeral Celebrant

I have been fortunate enough to work in a variety of occupations which I believe has given me the skills and experience to be able to do this role justice. My first career was in Musical Theatre and Dance and following my retirement at the age of 27, I worked as a flight attendant for Virgin Atlantic, a hotel receptionist, a background artist and a Finance and Administration Manager. In 2004, I started a career in the beauty industry where I worked as on a National Events Team as a National Make-up Artist and then as a Visual Merchandiser for 12 years. I am currently working as an accredited Wellbeing Life Coach and a Bereavement Support Worker for Cruse Manchester.

The first time I considered being a celebrant was when my brother and sister in law got married. I found out that the ceremony, due to take place in front of a waterfall in Iceland, was only going to last 5 minutes. In order to make the ceremony more memorable and to make the most of the beautiful surroundings, I asked if I could perform a marriage ceremony that I found in a book written by Marianne Williamson. The bride, groom and guests were moved to tears by the ceremony, especially my Mum who made me promise her that I would complete the Celebrant training.

Following the deaths of my parents and brother within a short period of time, I found great comfort in arranging their funerals. I learnt how to include the wishes of all my immediate family members, whilst creating a balance of mourning and celebration to honour our loved ones who had passed away. I also found that I was able to help other people to write their speeches. As part of my grieving process, I experienced a period of deep reflection where I realised that I could use my experiences of loss and bereavement to support others who were navigating their own grieving process. I remembered the promise that I had made to my Mum and finally made good on my promise to become a Celebrant.

My aim as a Celebrant is to work with you to co-create a unique and memorable ceremony to mark your significant life events. I conduct Weddings, Civil Partnerships, Baby Naming Ceremonies and Funerals.