As a celebrant, I prefer funerals to weddings. This is why

‘I felt that my family and I had given my sister a meaningful send-off and I wanted to help other people do the same for their beloveds.’ Photograph: AnnaStills/Getty Images

As a celebrant, I start my weddings and funerals with the same words: “Everyone, we are about to get started, so can you please make sure your phones are off or on silent.”

I introduce myself, express my great privilege in sharing this moment with the people gathered and always make sure I have tissues on hand. Wedding dresses don’t have pockets and you’d be surprised how many people come to a funeral not expecting to cry.