Hi, I'm Donna Rose Gardner — a celebrant, officiant, and someone who considers it one of life's greatest honors to pour my whole heart into honoring the lives of those we love.

I have a gift for listening — truly listening — and weaving what I hear into ceremonies truly reflect the beauty of the life of loved onees who have transitioned.

Every Celebration of Life hold is shaped around the person, or cherished pet, at its center: their quirks, their humor, their tenderness, the way they made people feel. Because no two lives are the same, and no two ceremonies should be either.

I believe every life tells a story worth celebrating. The kind of story that makes people laugh through their tears, nod their heads, and say yes, that was them. That's what I'm here to help you tell.

When we work together, I'll listen carefully — to the funny memories, the quiet ones, the things that made your person or pet completely one of a kind. Then I'll weave all of that into a ceremony that feels less like a service and more like a true reflection of the love you shared.

I was ordained in 2010 through The Center for Sacred Studies as a non-denominational, cross-cultural Minister of Walking Prayer, and at the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: that we are all here as an expression of Love. I bring that belief with me into every ceremony.

It is truly an honor to be trusted with something this sacred. I don't take that lightly, not even for a moment.

Because your loved one's story deserves to be told — beautifully, personally, and with great care.

Every life is one-of-a-kind — and the ceremony honoring it should be too. We specialize in creating custom Celebration of Life ceremonies that are as unique as the person being remembered.

The process begins by listening deeply to your stories, memories, and reflections. A thoughtful, guided questionnaire helps capture the details that matter most — your loved one's personality, passions, relationships, and the lasting impact they made on the world around them.

From those meaningful conversations, a personalized life tribute is carefully and lovingly crafted — weaving together your loved one's story into a cohesive, heartfelt ceremony that truly reflects who they were. Every word, every moment, every memory is intentionally honored.

Looking for the perfect setting to match your vision? I also offer curated venue recommendations tailored to your loved one's spirit — including breathtaking Redwood Forest ceremony locations, intimate oceanside memorial settings aboard the water, and a beautiful non-denominational chapel for a more traditional yet inclusive gathering.

Whether you're looking for a meaningful memorial service, a non-religious Celebration of Life, or a personalized tribute ceremony, this service is designed to bring comfort, connection, and a profound sense of closure to everyone in attendance.

Starts at $600

Losing a loved one is hard enough — planning a meaningful memorial shouldn't add to that burden.

With over 30 years of professional event management and coordination experience, every detail of your loved one's memorial is handled with seasoned expertise, calm professionalism, and deep compassion.

Families can take comfort knowing their tribute is in the hands of an experienced Celebration of Life specialist who understands both the logistical and emotional weight of this sacred occasion.

From curated vendor recommendations to seamless communication on your behalf, every detail is handled with care. On the day of the service, gentle and professional oversight ensures everything flows beautifully — so you can stay fully present, grieve openly, and focus on honoring the one you've lost.

What's Included:

Day-of coordination and event management

Personalized vendor and venue recommendations

Vendor communication and liaison services

On-site oversight to keep everything on schedule

A calm, compassionate presence so your family can simply be together

Starts at $1,600.

Our animal companions are family — and their unconditional love leaves lasting love in our hearts long after they're gone. A Pet Celebration of Life ceremony offers a tender, meaningful space to honor their spirit, celebrate the joy they brought into your everyday life, and acknowledge the profound bond you shared.

Losing a pet is a real and valid grief, and it deserves to be honored with the same intention and care as any other loss. Through deep listening and a thoughtful, personalized questionnaire, a custom pet memorial ceremony is crafted to reflect your beloved companion's one-of-a-kind personality — whether they were playful and spirited, gentle and nurturing, or wise beyond their years.

Together, we weave in your favorite memories, meaningful poems, healing rituals, and personal touches that bring comfort and celebrate the extraordinary gifts your furry, feathered, or scaled friend gave to the world. No two pets are alike — and no two ceremonies are either.

Children and other pets are warmly welcomed, making this a gentle and inclusive experience for the whole family.

I also offer venue recommendations to find the perfect setting that reflects your pet's spirit — from serene Redwood Forest locations, the beach on a boat, or an intimate gathering in the comfort of your own home.

Because every life deserves to be beautifully remembered.

Starts at $550