From Nashville adventures and nights at the theatre to line dancing, rugby and live gigs, music has always played a big part in Gayleโs life.
Based in the coastal town of Prestonpans in East Lothian, Gayle Duncan Jacobsen balances her work with the NHS with a role she had dreamed about for many years: being a celebrant.
In the latest instalment of our Faces of the Foundation series, Gayle shares what inspired her to finally follow that dream, why she knew Fuze was the right organisation for her and what she loves most about helping people celebrate lifeโs most meaningful moments.
Hi, Iโm Gayle and I live in a wee town by the sea on the East Coast of Edinburgh called Prestonpans.
For as long as I can remember, I have loved music and anything that goes with it, singing, dancing, theatre and gigs. My Granny Maisie was a dance teacher, so I learned Tap and Highland from 5 years old, although these days Line Dancing is more my style.
For our 50th birthday, my two best friends and I went to Nashville and Dollywood. The 3 of us love Country Music and the trip was a dream come true for us, we were lucky enough to get tickets for the famous Bluebird Cafe and also did a backstage tour at the Grand Ole Opry. Memories which will stay with us for a lifetime.
I first thought about becoming a Celebrant years ago, but at that time, the only option I could find was a two-week residential course. I had recently become a single parent and started a new job with the NHS (which I still do), so it was something that just wouldnโt have worked for me at that time. After lockdown and the death of a friend, I looked into it again and found Fuze and knew straight away this was the organisation that I wanted to work with.
In my spare time, you can find me spending time with friends and family, line dancing, watching Rugby and going to gigs. Iโm loving the fact that my daughter is now old enough for us to go to concerts together and my taste in music has rubbed off on her over the years.
Since becoming a celebrant, I feel incredibly grateful that I get to be part of such meaningful moments in peopleโs lives. I especially love the ceremonies where thereโs plenty of laughter, emotion and a few happy tears. Being part of Fuze has made the journey even more special, giving me the opportunity to connect with wonderful people, share in so many beautiful stories and continue growing in something I genuinely love doing. Every ceremony is different, and thatโs what keeps it so rewarding.
I honestly donโt think there is a better job in the world than sharing people’s special moments with them.
