This month, I am delighted to introduce you to Sian Parry, Celebrant. Sian took both our Funeral and Wedding Celebrant Training courses and is a bilingual, Welsh and English, Independent Celebrant based in Carmarthenshire. We had such fun working together, and I am in no doubt that Sian is going to be a thoughtful, caring and inclusive Celebrant. She has a wonderful sense of humour, is amazing in a crisis and is a natural writer.
What made you decide to become an Independent Celebrant?
Sian Parry, Celebrant:
The first time I came across a celebrant, was when my aunt passed away. I was in awe of her. The service she conducted for my aunt was amazing.
The funeral was all about my aunt, with my uncle and cousins taking part. It was so different to any funeral I had ever been to. She conducted it so beautifully. Although the celebrant did not know my aunt, I felt as if she had always known her, it was so personal.
Having been to funerals in the past, thinking who was the minister/priest talking about? Was I in the correct funeral? Were they in the correct funeral, as they were not talking about the person I knew?
Then, I knew I had to do something to help others to have the ceremony they deserved.
I wanted to help families to give loved ones the service they deserved, with love and honour. It is about celebrating the life we have lost, the life we want to honour, to remember, and to treasure for evermore.
What skills do you think you bring to the role?
Sian Parry, Celebrant:
I bring empathy, sensitivity and understanding. I’ve got excellent listening skills. I work well with others. I’m good at organising, exploring different avenues and ideas people have, and I love making them happen.
You took both our Funeral Celebrant and wedding Celebrant can you share one thing from each course that really stood out or struck home for you?
Sian Parry, Celebrant:
Each course was different. I originally wanted to become a funeral celebrant only!
Dinah gave me confidence and made me believe in myself. She has a vast wealth and experience in life and of being a celebrant, which she shares with you. She can make you believe in yourself and achieve your goals.
Once I passed the Funeral Celebrant, I wanted to do the Wedding Celebrant course as Dinah was so motivational. I looked forward to our weekly one-2-one sessions. I wanted to excel in being a celebrant and achieve recognition.
What are you most looking forward to as a Wedding Celebrant?
From someone who did not want to become a Wedding Celebrant, I now cannot wait to do my first wedding, and to do a hand fasting ceremony. It will be lovely to take part in a loving and happy ceremony.
What top-tip would you give to anyone thinking about training as an Independent Celebrant?
Pick up the phone to Dinah and book her at once.
You will not regret it.
Can you share five things about Sian the person, rather than the Celebrant?
Loving Mother
Adoring Grandmother
Devoted Daughter
Loyal Friend
Always prepared to help others, going beyond the line of duty
How can people contact you?
Email: celebrantsian@yahoo.com