The last thing anyone wants to experience is the call or the knock on the door that arrives with the news that a loved one has passed away. However, it happens, and when it does those left behind begin the process of funeral planning.
If you are in the position where you are planning a funeral for a loved one it can be overwhelming especially if you have never planned one before. Keep reading to get the support you need to start making funeral arrangements.
Funeral Planning Decisions
One of the first decisions you will need to make as you begin funeral planning is on a funeral home. You will want to shop around as some funeral homes are more costly than others.
In addition, it is essential to ensure that the funeral home you choose is able to support the type of final disposition of your loved ones’ body. There are a few options for this including burial, cremation, a natural or green burial, and alkaline hydrolysis.
If you chose a burial you will need to consider factors such as a casket, a cemetery plot or mausoleum space, and what type of headstone or marker to choose. Cremation is generally a lower cost than a burial. If you do choose cremation you will need to decide what you will do with the ashes afterward.
If you plan to spread the ashes make sure you check laws in your area. Natural or green burials are good for individuals who want to reduce the environmental impact they have after death.
Alkaline hydrolysis is considered a flameless or water cremation. This type of creation is reported to have a lower environmental impact. However, this is not available or legal in every state.
You will also need to decide on an obituary. Many funeral homes offer online obituaries. There are some decisions regarding the funeral service you should make before writing an obituary.
The Funeral Service
Before you begin the process of making decisions about your loved ones’ funeral service, consider what they would have wanted. Did they have a funeral plan? If they did, then make sure to consult that before making decisions.
If they did not, talk to people they may have told their final wishes. Ultimately, you want your loved one to have the funeral service that honors their memory the best.
As you begin planning one of the first things you will need to decide is the location and date. While some individuals choose to hold the service in the funeral home others may prefer a church or graveside service. This information will be in your loved ones’ obituary.
Type of Funeral
There are many different types of funerals. Part of the decision here will include any religious beliefs your loved one held. Different types of funerals to consider include a traditional funeral, a memorial service, a celebration of life, a wake, a viewing, or a scattering ceremony.
Personalize The Service
Personalizing the service is where you are able to really honor your loved one. You will want to decide who will act as the officiant.
You will also want to decide on readings, music, and/or a eulogy. Also, consider choosing images of your loved one to display or a slideshow.
A very important especially in the times of Covid is whether you will record or live stream the service for those who cannot be there in person. Finally, will you have time for people to gather and talk afterward? Consider whether to offer food and refreshments.
There are many ways you can personalize a funeral service, so look here for more ways.
Flowers or Donations
It is common for people to want to send flowers when someone passes away. It will be important to decide if that is okay or if you would prefer donations to the cost of the funeral or to a charity. This information will also be important to include in the obituary.
Deepest Sympathies
Losing someone you love is difficult. As you begin the funeral planning process honor their memory with a funeral that celebrates their life.
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