Why You Should Speak to a Celebrant Before a Funeral

A guide for funeral families in Maclean, Grafton, Yamba & the Clarence Valley

If you have a loved one in Maclean, Grafton, Yamba or anywhere in the Clarence Valley, who may be nearing the end of life…you don’t have to wait until they’re gone to reach out.

And while not every death is expected,

when there is a moment to prepare -

even just a little - it can make all the difference.

Because in those first hours and days after a

death, everything can feel overwhelming. Decisions

are rushed. Emotions are high. And often, families

are left trying to plan something deeply meaningful

while simply trying to breathe.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

This is where I can come in

I’m not just there on the day of the funeral.

I’m someone you can come to beforehand - to talk things through, to sit with what’s ahead, and to gently start shaping what feels right.

And if the loss is sudden and you didn’t have that time - I can step in then too, with the same care and guidance. No pressure. No expectations. Just support, experience, and someone who understands.

Experience matters in moments like this

Over the years, I’ve officiated close to 300 funeral and memorial services.

I’ve worked with more than 15 different funeral homes, from Coffs Harbour to the Gold Coast and Brisbane, and inland to Tenterfield, including:

• Parkview Funerals

• Grafton & District Funerals

• Clarence Valley Funerals

• Simplicity Funerals Maclean

• Riverview Funerals

  
  

I understand how each of them works - their approach,

their strengths, and what might suit different families.

Which means I can help guide you - not just to any 

funeral home, but to the right one for you.

I’ve seen it all — and I hold it all with care

I’ve led funerals with two people in the room during COVID, and others with thousands gathered to say goodbye.

I’ve supported families through:

• The loss of babies, teenagers, and the elderly

• Sudden deaths, illness, accidents, and suicide

• Murders and deeply traumatic circumstances

• The passing of partners together, and even entire families

• People who were deeply loved… and those who felt misunderstood or alone

• 
  

Some deaths are expected. Many are not. Either way, every story matters. And every person deserves to be honoured properly.

More than a ceremony

Yes - I create beautiful, personal funeral and memorial services.

But more importantly, I bring calm, clarity, and guidance into a time that often feels anything but.

Sometimes you just need someone to:

• Help you make sense of your options

• Talk through what a service could look like

• Navigate conversations with funeral homes

• Or simply sit, listen, and hold space

That’s what I’m here for.

You can speak to me first

You don’t need to have all the answers. You don’t even need to know what you want yet. You can just start with a conversation.Whether you’re in Maclean, Grafton,

Yamba or the wider Clarence Valley, I’m here to help guide you - gently, honestly, and with care. And if I’m not the right celebrant for you? I’ll help you find someone who is.

 When the time comes

You can:

Call me: 0428460266

Email me: jenny.tesar@outlook.com

Or request me through your chosen funeral home - Including Grafton & District Funerals, Clarence Valley Funerals, Simplicity Funerals Maclean, Riverview Funerals or Parkview Funerals. Because this isn’t just about planning a funeral.

It’s about honouring a life, supporting a family, and making sure nothing important is left unsaid.

Jenny 🤍