A good story, well told
Her background in theatre informs how she writes and speaks. She can weave together different memories into a tribute that sounds natural rather than formal.
Independent funeral celebrant · London
Sophie Duval
Sophie is a gifted storyteller, an actor and a funeral celebrant who knows when to make room for humour, when to listen and when to let a moment speak for itself.
We have worked with Sophie on funerals in London and recommend her for her writing, her warmth and her ability to understand what somebody is trying to say, even when they are finding the words difficult.
What she does
Funeral and memorial ceremonies
Experience
Professional actor and writer
Celebrant fee
From £450 · depending on requirements
Sophie's approach
Getting to know the person you are remembering
Sophie will want to hear about the person who has died: their character, the things they loved, their relationships and the stories people still tell about them.
She listens carefully and writes the ceremony from what she learns. She can help with a tribute, readings, music and contributions from the people who would like to take part. Equally, she understands that not everyone wants to stand up and speak.
Her ceremonies can have laughter as well as sadness. She knows that the small, funny or unexpected details often say more about somebody than a list of their achievements.
Working with Sophie
What Sophie brings to a funeral
There's no prescribed script. Sophie works with the people arranging the funeral to put together something that feels recognisable to them.
Space for everyone
Sophie encourages people to take part if they would like to, whether by reading, choosing music, sharing a story or being there to listen.
Warmth and humour
A funeral can be moving without being solemn throughout. Sophie is good at finding the tone that suits the person who has died and the people gathered.
The ceremony
There is room to do things differently
Sophie can lead a ceremony at a crematorium, a natural burial ground or another venue. She can work with familiar traditions or help you plan something less conventional.
What matters is making decisions that suit the person who has died. We can look at the venue and practical arrangements together, while Sophie works with you on the ceremony itself.
Explore places to hold a funeralAbout Sophie
A life in words and performance
Before becoming a celebrant, Sophie built a career as an actor. She has worked at the National Theatre, Shakespeare's Globe and the Royal Shakespeare Company, as well as in the West End and on television.
She lives on a boat with her daughter and their animals. She loves nature, cares about the environment and plays the fiddle, by her own admission, both in and out of tune.
In 2021 Sophie was a finalist for Celebrant of the Year at the Good Funeral Awards. We particularly value her ability to create a ceremony that is thoughtfully written but doesn't feel like a performance.
Fees and contact
Speak to Sophie
Celebrant fee
From £450
The fee depends on your requirements. Sophie can confirm the cost and her availability when you discuss your plans with her.
It's worth having a conversation first
We always suggest speaking to a celebrant before deciding who you'd like to lead a funeral. You can tell Sophie what you're thinking about and get a sense of whether her approach is right for you.
Sophie is an independent celebrant. Her fee is separate from Poetic Endings' funeral directing fees, and any crematorium, burial ground or venue costs.
A few practical questions
Working with Sophie
Can Sophie lead a non-religious funeral?
Yes. Sophie can work with you on a non-religious ceremony. If you would like to include a prayer, hymn or another religious or spiritual element, discuss this with her so the ceremony reflects the person's beliefs and your wishes.
Can we include our own readings, music and contributions?
Yes. Sophie can help bring together readings, music and tributes, or support people who would like to say something themselves. Nobody needs to take part in a way that feels uncomfortable.
Can Sophie lead a funeral outside a crematorium?
Yes, subject to availability and the venue arrangements. We can help you explore other places to hold a funeral, including natural burial grounds and venues suitable for a separate ceremony.
Do we have to use Poetic Endings to book Sophie?
No. Sophie is an independent celebrant. You can contact her directly. If Poetic Endings is arranging the funeral, we'll work with Sophie to coordinate the ceremony and the practical arrangements.
How much does Sophie charge?
Sophie's fee starts at £450, depending on your requirements. She'll confirm the final fee with you before you book.
Choosing a celebrant
There are many different approaches to leading a funeral. If you're arranging a funeral with Poetic Endings, we can help you find the right celebrant and coordinate the arrangements.