Celebrant profile:
Catherine Simpson
We are all individuals and that’s something that should be celebrated.
As a humanist celebrant, I craft your ceremony in a tailored way, getting to know you and focusing on what matters most, while also reflecting humanist values.
I trained as a celebrant after a career in law and financial services. I’ve always enjoyed writing, public speaking, attending events and mixing with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and this role combines all these elements and more. I am an organised person and would hope that you'd find me to be a calm and caring contributor, whatever the occasion.
I was brought up in Perthshire, studied in Aberdeen and have lived in both Edinburgh and Glasgow. Now based in Stirling I work locally and further afield – even in a field if that’s what takes your fancy! A farmer’s daughter, I am married with two girls. As they have flown the nest, our wee whippet acts as a substitute child.
I hold voluntary board positions with two Scottish charities, make time to enjoy the great outdoors and am slowly adding to my Munro count. I also love a trip to the cinema or theatre, for dance or drama, and treasure a good night out, or in, with friends and family. Having been in the same book group for 20 years I can help source quotes or readings to suit your event.
If you are seeking a ceremony with a big heart, please get in touch. You can learn more about my approach to weddings and funeral services below.
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Wedding & Civil Partnership Ceremonies
The beauty of a non-religious humanist ceremony is that it is unique to you.
Whether it’s a massive shindig with all your friends and family or a private elopement with just the two of you and the dog, this is your big day your way.
Want to get married up a hill, in a hotel or even at home? Yes you can. Wish to write your own vows, choose your own readings or poems and include symbolic gestures such as handfasting or drinking from a quaich. Absolutely! You can do that too. Or you can opt for something simple.
Whatever your preference, I’ll work with you to deliver a ceremony that reflects your individual values, tells your own special love story and incorporates the necessary commitments and legal declarations. I’ll guide you calmly and efficiently through the process and tease out the tales that will make your ceremony truly memorable.
To share your exciting plans and to find out more about me, please complete the contact form below or drop me a text.
Funeral Ceremonies
A humanist funeral is both a unique celebration of life and a non-religious dignified farewell. Sharing fond memories and experiences alongside readings, poems, photographs and music can provide comfort and reassurance to those united by love and loss.
To create and deliver a personal tribute either at the crematorium, graveside or at a separate memorial service, I spend time with family members, listening to their stories and asking for their reflections on their loved one's life. The author Michael Rosen said, ‘a funeral should live in your mind as a good moment’. With a calm, compassionate and professional approach, I strive to achieve that for all the families I work with.
Ceremony fees:
Contact me to confirm my fee