GRAHAM SMALL - THE CELEBRANT

…a little personal background

Graham has worked as a civil celebrant throughout the Wellington region since 1993. He has a background in selling, in people support, hospital chaplaincy, hospice care, and of course, in compiling and facilitating all those various ceremonies in which a celebrant might be involved – baby-namings, weddings, home blessings, anniversaries, life closures (funerals), and memorial services.

Graham’s personal attention to detail plus the uniquely composed and printed-in-full ceremonies have resulted in many testimonials from well-satisfied families. His understanding of and appreciation to detail was aided by a time of severe ill health caused by complicated surgery in the early 1990s. As a result of this difficult time – together with his previous experiences – he can identify with the frustration of helplessness, and the need of understanding support.

He has considerable experience as a celebrant – and especially in the area of grief. Before his 30th birthday he suffered four significant personal bereavements. As a former minister/chaplain and in his role with the Te Omanga Hospice he was in frequent contact with grieving people.

Graham is married to Margaret, a former hospice nurse and trained counsellor. They’ve lived in Upper Hutt since 1978. Two married sons and family that live nearby provide a significant part of their interest. Graham enjoys also, socialising and meeting new people, dinning out, reading and watching Agatha Christie mysteries, listening to music, discussing spiritual issues, and walking with his wife.

Graham is based in Upper Hutt but happy to travel to areas including Lower Hutt, Wellington, Kapiti, and the Wairarapa.