Hello and thank you for taking the time to view my profile.
My name is Julie Hassell and I’m an accredited Humanist Celebrant. It is my very great pleasure to preside over non-religious funerals, memorials, weddings and partnerships throughout Northern Ireland, border counties and other locations by arrangement.
As people seek unique experiences to share with family and friends, Humanist ceremonies are becoming increasingly popular. Driven by my passionate belief that we all deserve to choose how we celebrate significant events, I undertook the gold standard of training for non-religious ceremonies; this means that I have met the very rigorous requirements set by The British Humanist Association.
My background is in nursing, but I also have a degree in peace and conflict studies from The University of Ulster. I currently work part-time as an occupational health adviser, as well as a celebrant.
Weddings
Weddings and civil partnerships can be expensive affairs; I want this investment to translate into a special day that will long remain in the hearts and minds of your family and friends. I approach the creation of the perfect ceremony as a collaborative venture and, as such, I’m happy to join in with any theme. It can be as traditional or as unusual as you wish. Some couples like to include a significant act – most typically an exchange of rings, but it could also include handfasting, ring warming or sand blending. Some couples like to encourage participation through sing-a-longs, or as a collective promise whereby guests also pledge their love and support.
I will help you select the most suitable music, poetry, promises and/or declarations. The choices are endless and together we will create a truly memorable celebration.
If you are not sure whether a Humanist wedding is the right ceremony for you, then please don’t hesitate to give me a call and I will talk you through the process, with no obligations. I also have a very good understanding of the legalities of Humanist weddings on both sides of the border; I will happily explain these to you so that you can make an informed decision about your special day.
Funerals
Humanist funerals and memorials are designed to respect the wishes of the deceased and their remaining family and friends. Above all they are a celebration of life. The loss of a loved one is always difficult, no matter what the circumstances. Non-religious funerals are carefully designed to bring comfort to everyone present, regardless of their own personal beliefs. Each ceremony is a unique occasion; a shared experience of grief and loss, together with the opportunity to say goodbye in the way that is most fitting. Through the choice of tributes, poetry, readings and music, they truly reflect the individual and how their life touched those around them.
I am also happy to visit anyone who wishes to design their own funeral to ensue you have the ceremony that you want.
Julie Hassell BA (Hons) BSc (Hons)