I work in a job that no one wants, but I met the love of my life, my work friend even married us

FOR this happy couple, the vow “till death do us part” means even more to them.

Louise and Paul Newman are both funeral directors Cooperative Funeral Care and fell in love after meeting at work.

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The newlyweds first crossed paths in November 2019 when Louise joined the funeral service at the Canterbury Care Centre.

She planned to stay in the role for just a few years, until fate – and Paul – changed everything.

But the loved-up couple from Kent recently tied the knot after working side by side – and a colleague even officiated their ceremony.

Louise said: “Meeting Paul changed my whole journey. I was planning on moving, but he encouraged me to stay and pursue a career in funeral services.

“We are both fortunate to have wonderful colleagues at our offices, some of whom were able to celebrate our special day with us.

“One of our funeral celebrants, who has become a friend, even performed the wedding service for us.”

With on-call shifts and occasional stays up late, balancing work and romance is a routine they’ve mastered.

“If one of us is on call, we both help each other – that’s normal,” says Louise.

“We try to separate work and home life, but sometimes when we’re called out or have to work late, having a partner who understands this can make a huge difference.”

Paul had worked at Co-op Funeralcare for over twenty years and moved from London to Kent in 2007.

He was inspired by his father, who was also a funeral director in London.

Louise, meanwhile, joined Co-op Funeralcare in Canterbury after 18 years working in an administrative role in the NHS, after longing for a more hands-on role where she could connect with people.

What she didn’t expect, however, was that she would find her soulmate

She said: “Paul’s encouragement made me want to become a funeral director myself and he has been very supportive.”

And working in funeral services has shaped the couple’s view on life.

“Our work sometimes means we are exposed to families experiencing tragic and unexpected loss of life,” said Louise.

“It has made us acutely aware that life can be too short, as well as the importance of making the most of every day. It’s comforting to have a partner who gets it.

“It is important to always remain professional and support each other.

“It’s comforting to know that if you’ve had a more challenging day, your partner will appreciate how you feel and empathize.”