Jenny started her professional career in this area by inquiring about being a marriage celebrant, some 30 years ago. However, Jenny left the pursue because it was becoming a complicated trade due rules and regulations.
Jenny was then contacted by John & Peter from Ester and Carrrol, Mudgee, about being a funeral celebrant. After many attempts by John & Peter, Jenny’s first experience was in a garden home of the decease, that included having to read the eulogy. It was a successful presentation. Jenny has done over 200 funerals since.
Up to late 1900s, only men are allowed to attend funerals and they wore black outfit, said Jenny. In 1970s, things changed, e.g. people started wearing white, and the theme changed to a “Celebration of life”. 1980s eulogy started. In 1990s, funeral celebrant started as n alternative to a church service.
Jenny approaches are to find information about the “the loved one” and family, in a consultative manner, e.g. belief systems, wishes, favourite quotes, poems, music, etc. and construct the proceeding which include rehearsal with the family. Jenny shared some interesting/funny experiences.
