7 Things to Consider When Planning a Funeral

Planning a funeral is something most of us will have to be a part of in our lifetime. It can be a difficult and stressful task, often because people do not know where to begin with funeral planning.

At Memorial stationery, we understand the relevant concerns and stresses associated with funeral planning. As such, we have created this list of 7 things to consider when planning a funeral.

Funeral directors

One of the first things to consider when planning a funeral is funeral directors. You will want to find a funeral director who can help you with everything, from pre-planning funeral arrangements to attending your loved one’s funeral.

Funeral directors help organise the funeral and finalise all the little details you may not want to be in control of. Things such as:

• Legal documents
• Dressing and preparing the body
• Bringing the body into their care
• Cremation services
• Organising transport of the body

You will want to find a funeral director who you can trust and feel comfortable with to help make the funeral process as seamless as possible.

 

Pre-planning

Pre-planning funeral arrangements is something that more and more people are doing these days. It can be a difficult conversation to have, either with yourself or with your family, but pre-planning funeral arrangements can help alleviate some of the stress and confusion that often arises when planning a funeral.

By pre-planning funeral arrangements, you can ensure that your loved one’s funeral is exactly how you want it to be, without having to worry about last-minute details or making difficult decisions.

You can also pre-pay for funeral services, which can help reduce the financial burden on your family during an already difficult time.

 

What you need before the funeral

There are a few things you will need to take care of before the funeral. This includes:

1. Obtaining a death certificate: You will need to obtain a death certificate from the funeral director. This is a legal document that states the cause of death and is required for various purposes, such as settling the estate.
2. Arranging transportation: You will need to make arrangements for transportation to and from the funeral. This includes arranging for a hearse to transport the body, as well as transportation for funeral guests. You may also want to consider funeral coach hire for wedding cars or limousine services that can help transport mourners to and from the funeral.
3. Notifying friends and family: Once you have made funeral arrangements, you will need to notify friends and family of the funeral date and time. This can be done through funeral announcement cards or by word-of-mouth.
4. Obtaining a funeral permit: In order to hold a funeral, you will need to obtain a funeral permit. This can be done through your funeral director or local council office, and typically needs to be obtained at least a few days before the funeral date.
5. Organising funeral flowers: Flowers are an important part of any funeral, but they can also add significant costs to the funeral budget. You may want to consider making your own arrangements. This can also be a sentimental touch.

 

Burial or cremation

Another important consideration when planning a funeral is whether to have the funeral in a funeral home, cemetery, or other location. This decision can depend on your budget, personal preferences, and religious beliefs.

Whether you choose burial or cremation for your loved one’s funeral will also impact the type of funeral order of service that you need.

 

Date, time, and invitations

When planning a funeral, you will need to decide on the date, time, and location of the funeral. You will also need to send out funeral invitations or funeral announcement cards to funeral guests. If you are struggling with how to write your funeral announcement, click here.

 

Funeral order of service

The funeral order of service is a key component of any funeral. It serves as a remembrance for your loved one, but it can also help funeral guests understand the flow and order of the funeral.

If you are planning a funeral on a budget, there are several online tools that can help you design and create your own funeral order of service online. At Memorial stationery, we have beautiful templates as well as the option to design bespoke funeral order of service booklets online with our helpful online editing tool.

You can browse our range of funeral order of service booklets, here.

 

After funeral arrangements

Once the funeral is over there is often a gathering after the ceremony for guests to join together and share fond memories about the one being remembered. Depending on your religious beliefs, this may be a wake or another sentimental gathering.

Additionally, you may want to consider sending out thank you cards to funeral guests. This is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for their support during this difficult time, especially if they have donated to a charity or organisation in memory of your loved one.

You may also want to consider setting up a memorial website or online tribute page where friends and family can leave messages of condolence and share memories of the person being remembered.

 

Whatever funeral arrangements you choose to make, it is important to take care of yourself during this difficult time. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of rest and seek support from loved ones and your community as you grieve the loss of your loved one.