Funeral inspired whole new career
AMANDA WHEAL, 59, left teaching after 34 years to start a new career as a celebrant who specialises in weddings.
The former secondary school teacher, from Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, says: ‘I was getting a bit disenchanted with teaching and was thinking about retiring when my brother died unexpectedly.
‘I was very involved in the funeral and we had an incredible celebrant. I just thought that was something I’d really like to do.’ After completing her training while continuing to work as a t e a c h e r, Amanda established her business in 2020 and has now won awards for her work.
‘I didn’t plan to retire as early as I did but, once I had completed my training, I was so keen to get started that I just went for it,’ she says.
‘ I’ve had the most wonderful two years, it’s just been incredible.’