Welcome!

Hello there! I'm David, and I live in Dalkeith, Midlothian, with my husband, Simon, our two cats, Bunty & Cooper, and our daft young golden retriever, Nova!

I've now been a celebrant for just under two years and am loving it! Previously I had a 30+ year career in HR, primarily within the charity sector, and after hankering for a change in direction I was glad to find the perfect role for me. I firmly believe in the Humanist principles of empathy, equality, compassion, reason and respect . So whether I'm working with a family on the funeral of a loved one, planning a fabulous wedding for an excited couple, or helping a family celebrate a new addition via a naming ceremony, it's always a privilege to be able to make a difference in their lives, even in some small way.

I'm a film buff and I have a very eclectic taste in music. A lifelong passion for the Eurovision Song Contest has seen me visit some fantastic cities over the years; Moscow, Jerusalem, Kyiv, Stockholm, Reykjavik and Liverpool being just some of my favourites! A few years ago I was quizzed on TV by Anne Robinson, and I turned out NOT to be The Weakest Link!

Humanist Ceremonies

What I love about Humanist ceremonies is that the central focus is on the people and their lives, whether that be welcoming a child, celebrating a new life going forward, the joining of two soulmates at a wedding or saying goodbye to a loved one at the end of their life. It's a celebration!

Weddings

Finding your soulmate and deciding that you want to spend the rest of your lives together is such a momentous time in anyone’s life, therefore choosing when, where and how you want to celebrate the important milestone of formally “tying the knot” in a wedding needs to reflect who you both REALLY are and to encapsulate your values as well as your personalities.

Working together with couples to plan this most special of days is such a joyful and rewarding part of the work of a celebrant and I take great pride in ensuring that your ceremony reflects everything that is important to you as well as suggesting how a particular symbolic gesture or reading could work well for you. I’ll provide advice and guidance on every aspect of the wedding ceremony, from your vows and promises to the music and structure of your ceremony.

It’s about planning the ceremony that best represents you as a couple, and I’d be delighted to chat through your thoughts and ideas and work together with you to create something truly special, unique and memorable for your big day!

Naming & Welcoming Ceremonies

Whether you are looking to hold a naming ceremony to welcome a new member of the family, or perhaps you are someone who has recently transitioned and is looking to celebrate their authentic self, I would love to be part of your celebration, and to help create a ceremony that allows you to share this very special occasion with your family and friends in a unique, memorable and fun way.
Please get in touch and let's chat about how we can create something fabulous together!

Funerals

Being there for a family at one of the most difficult times for them is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job as a celebrant.

Helping them to create a ceremony which captures the character and truly celebrates the life of their loved one is such a privilege. I love being there to make a difference for families at a time when they really need someone who will not only do their loved one proud, but also provide the warmth, empathy and compassion that will help them get through the preparation, as well as the day itself.

Get in Touch