This month, I am delighted to introduce you to Rhiannon Davies, who completed our Funeral Celebrant Training in June 2024. She brings excellent interpersonal skills to the role and I have no doubt is going to make people feel nurtured and cared for during challenging times. Rhiannon is based in Bangor, North Wales.
What initially made you decide to become an Independent Celebrant?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
I feel it has been a natural progression. I lost Beth my first child when she was 5 months old, as a parent that never leaves you. But how you remember someone is so important. I can’t say her funeral was good or bad, I got through it and the minister was gentle and kind, but I always remember those doors shutting and not being allowed back into the crematorium. It was final and I don’t think I was prepared for that. I had therapy and 5 years later I became a bereavement Counsellor myself and I have supported many people through grief and loss over the last 25 years.
What skills do you think you bring to the role?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
I bring an ability to listen, empathy, understanding, patience and compassion. As a businesswoman I am practical and organised. I am dyslexic and embrace my neurodiversity as I look at the bigger picture, observant, creative and good at problem solving.
Can you tell me about the work you do as a Integrative Counsellor?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
I have been a qualified counsellor for over 25 years, and I am a registered member of the BACP and continue to work in my private practice alongside my Celebrant role. I have specialised in helping people who are struggling with loss whether related to bereavement, health, relationships or career challenges, As a Integrated therapist I use various approaches such as Person Centred, Gestalt and Creative Therapy. Each client is different, and I adapt to my client’s needs.
You help people heal through creative mosaic making, can you tell us more about this?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
Certainly, grief can be overwhelming and isolating. Whilst counselling helps, sometimes words aren’t enough. Loss can leave you feeling heartbroken, like the Japanese kintsugi, I use mosaics to focus on the parts of us that are broken and how we can put ourselves back together, never the same as we were but we can be optimistic offering hope. Client’s wonder will it get easier. Time may feel like the enemy but eventually you get stronger. Taking small steps, you’re doing your best and that’s enough. Creating a mosaic offers a gentle non-verbal space to heal. No pressure or expectations but I invite clients into a safe haven where you can begin to rebuild. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or any day. You don’t have to talk, just break glass, tiles, add personal items, place the pieces and let your creativity guide you.
When creating a memorial piece there is no need for perfection just a way to honour your loved one in your unique way. Think of their favourite colour or what reminds you of them, each step lightens your burdens. It can be very cathartic in, non-judgemental and a gentle way to work through challenges and help aid positive change.
I know you’ve been a hairdresser for many years. What do you think you bring from that role, to your work as a Celebrant?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
As a hairdresser running a salon for 35 years in the local community, I bring a genuine credibility, a friendly face and a natural ability to help you relax and a flair to open the conversation. I have styled and connected with many families over the years from children to grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunties, uncles and friends. I’m aware of the dynamics of families, some in dispute but having an ability to hold that space, respect confidentiality and acknowledge peoples wishes. I rececently led a Celebration of life for a long-standing client of 34 years this was such a privilege.
What were the key take-aways for you from completing your training as an Independent Funeral Celebrant?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
I found the structure in which you delivered the course each week Dinah was so organized, and it flowed with precision. There was time to reflect between sessions. I never felt rushed. We covered a wide range of potential clients that I may encounter, expanding my expectations. I also think the support you gave during the business course was insightful too. Self-employment can be very isolating and the focus on the importance of networking with others in the field can’t be highlighted enough.
What type of ceremony would you love to create – if there were no limits on time or budget?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
Wow… what a question.
An artistic one, as the mourners contribute a creative contribution to the final resting place full of colour, nature, song, life has been enriched for knowing this person.
Time is the giver; we never have enough time. We spend so much time thinking of what needs to be done we often neglect being in the moment and enjoying the special things and memories.
Budget
If you were to look back three years from now, what goals do you hope to have achieved in your business?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
I hope I finally remember where everything is hidden behind the screen of my laptop failing that I want to have built and created a reputation of trust and compassion for all families facing the inevitable loss of someone they have loved and cared for.
What top tip would you give to anyone exploring the idea of training as an Independent Funeral Celebrant?
Rhiannon Davies Celebrant:
If you have a feeling or desire for this profession, follow it. Speak to Dinah she provides an introduction assessment call.
On completing the course keep going, don’t let imposter syndrome stop you from taking the next step, keep going, grow, learn from each service and keep learning. Write regularly, read poems and listen to music, even if it’s the birds in the garden.
Tell us a few things about yourself – Rhiannon the person, rather than the Celebrant.
I love a car boot or charity shop as I make mosaics.
Going on solo holidays meeting new people and learning new crafty skills.
I make a good roast dinner any day of the week.
I will walk the dog rather than stay in and dust the house.
How can people contact you:
My website is https://rhiannondavies.com
Mobile 07835840092