Meet Desiree Celeste | Death Companion, Educator, & Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Desiree Celeste (they/them) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Desiree, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I first thought about becoming a Death Companion, my primary push was to support others going through loss in ways that I needed support when dealing with deaths in my life. Once I began my education in death work, I realized how much deeper my desire ran. I needed to support marginalized people in the most sensitive times of our lives. As a trans person, I see exactly how our care is lacking in preplanning, end of life, and grief.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
When I first started as a Death Companion, it was so overwhelming! I didn’t know what I could reasonably offer for services, who would want to hire me, and how to reach them. I began by offering virtual Queer Grief Gatherings, a protected small group for queer people to grieve openly and be supported. It was an immediate success and I quickly began taking one on one clients. As my confidence grew, so did my offerings. In my first year serving the public in death work, I’ve been able to support and educate dozens both in one on one and in group settings. It was not easy, I have met more than my fair share of backlash and abuse, considering I am a trans person who predominantly serves LGBTQIA people and meet our unique needs head on. But knowing that I serve my community is such a reward!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Colorado has so many incredible spots to explore! For food, I always suggest Just Be Kitchen in the heart of Denver, a food sensitivity friendly eatery with a focus on sustainability & local foods. I love the Arvada Farmer’s Market for a stroll and breakfast. Hiking in Garden of the Gods, followed by a tour of Cave of the Winds makes for a great nature day! And a full Boulder tour, including Dushanbe Tea House, Celestial Seasonings tour, and the Boulder Meadery, then spending the evening walking Pearl Street to see the performers is a day of choice for me!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Those I wish to recognize most are those who died in the AIDS crisis, all of the lesbians who gave blood during the AIDS crisis, Marsha P Johnson and those who fought in Stonewall Riots, Colorado’s local queer outreaches, and the queer youth of today who are being exactly who they are, fighting for a brighter future. I also want to shout out Good Judy Garage, a Denver small business that centers and platforms queer and trans locals.

Website: https://www.denverdeathcompanion.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_desireeceleste_