
Winners announced at National Celebrants' Awards
Highgate House near Northampton proved a popular venue for this year’s National Celebrants’ Convention and Awards Dinner, with celebrants from across the UK in attendance, writes Russ Bravo.
Speakers ranged across the board from inside and outside the funeral world. Marketing and business guru Ashley Riley kicked things off with some penetrating insight into the process and value of branding, giving helpful advice for celebrants seeking to carve out their niche in an increasingly crowded market.
Founder of the Institute of Professional Celebrants Stuart Morris passed on helpful wisdom on how to increase business without ‘selling’ and celebrant and communicator Wendy Coulton had some timely guidance for funeral celebrants so keen to look after bereaved families, they neglect their own health and wellbeing.
NAFD President David Barrington spoke on the changing face of the funeral industry, and there were also lively Coffin Club workshops from Kate & Kate.
The day provided opportunity to network and chat to other celebrants, browse the exhibition and take time for relaxation. Credit goes to Anne Barber and her Civil Ceremonies team for a worthwhile and stimulating event.
The evening Dinner and Awards, ably compered by Richard Late, saw the verdicts delivered from judging panel Dr Hannah Rumble, Alun Tucker and Natasha Bradshaw, as follows:
Most Promising Funeral Celebrant
Winner - Deborah Page
Runner Up - Grace Jevons
Celebrants' Choice
Winner - Wayne Evans
Runner Up - Julie Kay
Funeral Directors' Choice
Winner - Sharon Weaver
Runner Up - Greg Dukeson
Influencing the Wider Profession
Winner - Sharon Weaver
Runner-Up - Julie Kay
Outstanding Funeral Celebrancy
Winner - Sally Ward
Runner Up - Sue Lawther-Brown
Full details of the event and the winners are on: https://celebrantsconvention.co.uk/the-national-celebrant-awards/
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