Sally Milliner | Funeral Celebrant

Funeral Celebrant in South Wales

Hello, my name is Sally and I am your funeral celebrant in South Wales, committed to creating ceremonies that are individual and memorable.

Being born in England and moving to Cardiff at 16, family and friends are scattered across both England and Wales.

I now live with my partner in a village in the Vale of Glamorgan, with many walks in the countryside or along the coast within easy reach. I have a grown-up son and two beautiful grandchildren who live not far away.

Bringing my son up as a young single parent brought its own challenges, not least in trying to forge a career, eventually studying part time to qualify as a solicitor.

Being fortunate to have not suffered much loss throughout my life, it was devastating when my parents died in recent years, dad suddenly and mum after a terminal illness.

Dad’s death was the first time I faced the pain of losing someone close and having to organise his funeral to give him the farewell that he deserved. Mum and dad’s ashes are scattered under a purple hydrangea near the 9th green on dad’s beloved golf course and we were able to plant an oak tree just off the 15th fairway.

It was through organising mum’s funeral with a celebrant that the seed of changing career to become a celebrant was sown. Now, two years later, I can draw on my experience to help you through your own grief journey.

We all need downtime, so when I am not working, I love to read, my kindle almost permanently attached.

Some of my free time is spent trying to play golf - getting out in the fresh air in lovely surroundings always lifts my spirits, even when my game is not so good.

Horses have also been a love of mine since a young age, they are such beautiful, gentle animals that never fail to create a feeling of calm and peace.

Experiencing the death of a special person in your life is incredibly painful and planning a funeral at this time can be overwhelming. We need the comfort and support of those around us to help us through.

With a career in law spanning over 20 years, I am accustomed to supporting people through various difficult and emotional times in their lives, establishing a friendly rapport, listening with genuine interest, patience and sensitivity, with strong skills in writing and presenting. My sister has also appreciated my support recently through cancer.

These qualities stand me in good stead in my role as a celebrant. It provides you with reassurance that you have someone with personal and professional experience, who is qualified through the UK Society of Celebrants and will be there for you throughout this emotional process.

When meeting with you, at your home or a mutually convenient place, we will spend as much time as you need sharing not just the facts, but also happy memories and stories of your loved one. We will work closely together on every aspect of the ceremony, from selecting readings and music to create a bespoke ceremony, capturing the essence of the person you love and wish to remember.

Family and friends often ask me to write poems for special occasions, funerals, birthdays and even a hen weekend. If this is something you would like me to incorporate into the ceremony, I can craft something personal for you, based on the memories you hold in your heart.

Though I am based in the Vale of Glamorgan/Cardiff, I will travel further afield if needed, to meet with you and present the celebration of life of your loved one.

Some of the best stories are made up of precious memories and every family’s journey is unique It would be a privilege to help you and your family say goodbye to your loved one in the way that feels right to you.