Coffin & Cake café returns to support those in grief
After the success of its first event last year, Coffin & Cake is returning to Pinks Ice-cream Parlour in Bognor Regis to offer support for those in grief following the loss of a loved one.
Free of charge, the next event takes place on Saturday 18 March at 5pm. The day before Mothering Sunday (so especially timely for anyone grieving a mum), Coffin & Cake is led by Funeral Celebrants Erika Biddlecombe and Vicky Edwards, Soul Doula Alison Wright (Soul Doulas support people emotionally and holistically at the end of their life) and former nurse Katy Alston, owner of Pinks Parlour. They will be joined by David Holmes, founder of the company Ashes to Blooms (who produce wildflower memorial seed balls using ashes), who will speak about his own experience of grief.
Explaining that the collective hope is to enable people to talk about how they are feeling, no matter how long ago their loss was, Erika said: “Our first session confirmed that being in the company of others who have experienced loss helps people to feel less isolated. It also encourages conversations about death and dying that as a nation we tend to shy away from. The goal is to inspire and offer support in an atmosphere that is non-judgemental and rich in loving kindness.”
Alison said: “Holding the gathering at Pinks proved really popular. The informality and cheery surroundings of an ice cream parlour made a difficult subject feel much more accessible and created a relaxed atmosphere. The parlour is closed to the general public, so it is an absolutely safe space. Being able to talk openly and ask questions about death and grief should be the norm and we are so pleased to be able to offer a platform for these conversations to take place.”
Facilitating one-to-one and group conversations, there will also be information about other sources of help and support available.
“That we can do all this over a cuppa and a piece of cake or some ice-cream is rather wonderful,” said Vicky. “We are so grateful to Katy and all at Pinks for allowing us to take over the parlour for this very special support group. Places should be booked in advance, just so we can be certain of accommodating everyone, but a warm and gentle welcome is guaranteed.”
Katy Alston said: “Pinks is always proud to support the community. Everyone experiences loss. I am delighted to be able to offer Pinks Parlour as a continuing meeting place for Coffin & Cake.”
Coffin & Cake is free of charge, but places must be booked. Reserve your place on 07771 890854 or email info@erikabcelebrant.co.uk
Erika is based in Emsworth, Vicky is based in Chichester, Alison is based in Rustington and David is based in Worthing. Pinks Parlour is in Bognor Regis.
Photo shows Vicky (in navy) seated next to Alison. Katy (in pink/red) next to Erika.
For further information and interview requests, please contact Vicky Edwards on 07771 890854 vicky@spotonceremonies.co.uk
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