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About

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Hello. I'm Luke Waterson. I set up Yew Tree Celebrancy because I believe that every life story is utterly unique. And because I believe that, when that person passes away, their story deserves to be  be told with dignity, with deep respect and in a one-of-a-kind way that is personal and true to them, and in the way you - their families, friends and acquaintances - would wish it. On the day, there is only one opportunity to give the person you have lost the send-off they deserve. We need to get that right. At Yew Tree Celebrancy, we pride ourselves on getting that right.

Our strength is in telling stories: your stories, the stories of the person you have lost, the stories of a life lived. Ever since I was a child, I loved stories. I remember sitting on my grandmother's knee as she talked about her childhood in the Second World War; my mother's as she told me tales of Beatles concerts, mods, rockers, moon landings. It was no surprise to anyone when I made a career out of telling stories. I have been a professional writer and public speaker for over 20 years, travelling across the UK and as far as the Amazon to research stories such as Wales' last coracle fishermen and the Amazon Basin's first indigenous-owned tour company. I became proud father to my daughter during this time too: she has inherited my zest for storytelling! I learned that the best stories start with the best listening. And that is the first thing I'll do for you: listen.

 

The person you have lost deserves a special send-off because death, besides being a time of mourning, should also be a celebration of a life. Yew Tree Celebrancy's speciality is in listening to your lost loved one's stories and  in weaving them together into a service that feels a fitting tribute. They might be easy stories to tell. They might be more complex ones. It doesn't matter, so long as we tell the story that is true to them and those that knew them.

Yew Tree Celebrancy is one of South Wales' few specialist funeral celebrancies. I was proud to train with one of the best-regarded celebrancy academies, the Academy of Professional Celebrants. I strive for excellence in every aspect of the funeral service from our first meeting, where you'll be able to tell me the stories of the person you have lost, through to the final word of the ceremony. I'll treat you and yours with respect and compassion. I'll make that service the best service it can be.

I'll be there throughout for you and the one you have lost. Let's give them the send-off they deserve together.  

The Process of Personalization

Frequently asked questions

01
Attentive Listening

We begin with a thorough conversation to understand your values and the narrative of the life you wish to celebrate, ensuring every detail reflectsthe story you want told.

02
Artisanal Scripting

Your narrative is woven into a bespoke ceremony script. This stage is about precision and care, creating a grounded reflection of your truth.

03
Accomplished, Heartfelt Delivery

Delivered with compassionate professionalism, the final ceremony honours the stories and shared values of those involved in a deeply meaningful celebration.

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