Fáilte. Irish, nature agus family- Gaeilge, an nádúr agus clann are at the heart of all my work. Speaking Gaeilge in Cork City, Cathair Chorcaí from birth (most unusual and unique!) I too choose to be a Mom and raised my family bi-lingually. Indeed, gan dabht , the first words I spoke to my first born were in Irish as Gaeilge whilst living sna Stáit Aondaithe, in the US followed by an old Irish lullaby. Family life includes various nuero-diverse labels and a menagerie of animals as mo theachlach – my family grew and reached various life milestones. Within reason, family pets are most welcome at ceremonies.
Being out in nature daily is a must for me and I carve out time to be outside, to be earthed, grounded, at peace and alive. Ceremonies in nature or where we bring nature inside bring huge joy to me . If moon phases, plants, herbs, biodiversity, ecology, climate concerns and climate actions steps of any size and shape we’re speaking the same language! Top that with perhaps an interest in or pull towards our ancient seasons of Bealtaine, Lúnasa, Samhain agus Grianstaid an Gheimhridh agus an tSamhridh resonate with you, we’re on the same wavelength – cinnte – most definitely!
How I pull Irish Gaeilge is best described as sandwich-ing Gaeilge into your ceremonies, where I follow your level, understanding and grá – love of Gaeilge, This ensures your guests hear, catch and feel the rithim rhythm, music- ceol and cadences of Éire’s ancient language – teanga ársa na h-Éireann.
I link your ceremonies to our ancient seasons and festivals alongside your life stories and values as they relate to whatever season your ceremony is. Often once we get chatting your creative ideas, love of nature are nudged into action and re-ignited.
Choosing roles/jobs for children and teenagers is easily incorporated following their interests, strengths and abilities similarly to adults participating. It’s very important that your guests aka family and friends – clann agus cairde feel present, in the moment and catch the energy of whatever ceremony I’m officiating that we have co-crafted le chéile together.
My life experience as an emigrant occurred in the formative years of my twenties & thirties. Being Irish overseas gifted me a deep understanding of the pain, trauma and healing of being a member of the Irish diaspora. I transfer this experience into your ceremony offering a means of processing and healing in subtle, gentle ways that add another layer to our ceremonies.
My communications and how I work is coloured from my child centered play therapy practice. I’m skilled in naming high emotions and confidently contain them as they emerge. Whatever the ceremony, my role is to be a conduit for your story, life values and love. I do this as I build an authentic, warm rapport at our initial call where together we decided if we are aligned (or not!) to co-create and deliver your ceremony.
I trust this little bio blurb gives you a sense of who I am and how I work as a 21st Gael Celebrant grounded in the seasons, land and language of Éire!
If you’d like to chat a little more, please do email me and from there we can arrange a What’s App Video Call.
Le buíochas agus beannachtaí,
With thanks and blessings.
Eithne Ní Dhraighneáin