I don’t always talk about the full range of ceremonies I offer as a celebrant. Understandably, much of what I share is about end-of-life care – celebrations of life, funerals and memorials are a big part of my work.
But I also get to hold space for joyous milestones, and it was a naming ceremony that led me somewhere unexpected… becoming an accidental NFL fan.
Towards the end of last year, I had the absolute joy of working with a wonderful human who was celebrating embracing his true identity—name and all. We had so many brilliant conversations, but one thing he mentioned really stuck: his love for the NFL.
In his words:
By the end of our chat, I’d gathered that the NFL had something to do with American football, and this was something he was genuinely passionate about. So, I came home, my brain stuffed with stats and facts I had no idea what to do with, and casually mentioned to my husband that I had a client who loved the NFL and that I’d love to weave something about it into the ceremony.
Now, my husband is AuDHD, which means I never know when he’s going to hit me with a totally unexpected fact about himself. Turns out, as a teenager, he loved the NFL, had a favourite team, and used to follow the season religiously. Cue an hour-long info dump about tight ends, rushing passes, and a whole bunch of other terms that went in one ear and straight out the other.
Within weeks, the kids were obsessed. We’d all picked a team to support. And my client—who had originally laughed at my glazed-over expression—was delighted that we were getting into his favourite sport. Even better? Our youngest picked his team.
Which is how I, a person who couldn’t care less about American football a few months ago, ended up awake at 4 am last night watching my team, the Philadelphia Eagles, kick ass at the Super Bowl.
And this morning, I woke up to a text from him saying, ‘Well, you chose the right team. Congrats.’ Which feels like the ultimate seal of approval.
Moments like these remind me why I love this work so much. Whether it’s celebrating a well-lived life or a new beginning, every ceremony is about connection—honouring what matters most to the people at the heart of it. It’s about stepping into their world, even if that world is full of touchdowns and tackle stats, because ultimately, it’s these shared moments that make life meaningful.
From heartwarming ceremonies to unexpected new passions, every journey is unique. If you’re looking for a Pagan priestess or celebrant to guide you through a wedding, naming ceremony, or celebration of life, I’d love to be part of your story – just like my NFL journey!
Reach out today, and let’s create a ceremony as unforgettable as the moments that shape us.
