Maxine Freeman  
Qualified Civil Celebrant

I'm a caring and generous person, always putting my heart and soul into everything I do. I've lived a varied life, working in many different fields and meeting all sorts of interesting people. I've lived on my narrowboat for over 20 years – a choice that, along with my love for motorbikes has given me a unique outlook and a strong belief in being yourself. Living an alternative lifestyle has made me very aware of how people can be excluded, which fuels my passion for celebrating diversity and helping others find more joy in life.

My husband Steve, our cat Pumpkin, and I are happily living on our narrowboat on the Grand Union Canal, moored in Union Wharf, where the Market Harborough Arm terminates. This bustling wharf was once home to red-brick warehouses, now converted to waterside apartments and businesses. We decided to embrace this life back in 2003 and it's been wonderful, offering daily doses of wildlife, freedom, and peace.

I recently earned a BA Honours in Arts and Humanities (Music and Creative Writing) from The Open University. I studied part-time for six years while working full-time as a web content and UX designer – my late Dad's pride was my constant motivation.

Writing his eulogy in 2017 sparked a long-held ambition to become a Celebrant, and after training with the International College of Professional Celebrants and completing the NOCN Certificate in Civil Celebrancy, that dream has come true! This new chapter allows me to use my empathy, listening skills, and storytelling abilities to support others during important life moments.