Did you know some people have pre-planned their funerals?
If your time has come and gone, but you need to plan a funeral for a loved one, you’re not alone. It’s a sad but inevitable part of life. Planning a funeral doesn’t need to be overwhelming.
We’ve got some simple tips to help your funeral plan that celebrates the life of your loved one and keeps them happy.
Keep reading to learn more.
1. Consult Your Mortuary
One key thing to consider when planning a funeral is consulting your mortuary about the possibilities, rules, and costs. Each mortuary’s policies and procedures can differ based on their practices, so it’s important to reach out with all your questions and concerns.
It’s wise to consult other professionals, such as funeral home directors, florists, and clergy, who can provide helpful insights and suggestions.
Get a copy of the fee schedule, since there may be different costs for different services. This can help you plan out your budget and create a funeral that brings out the best in your loved one’s memory.
2. Select the Service’s Leader and the Format
Depending on the type of funeral services being held, the options vary. If the funeral option is to be religious, then you will want to determine the church or temple where the service will take place and contact the religious leader to ask if he or she will officiate.
If the service is to be a more lighthearted and unique celebration of life, you might hire a celebrant or minister who specializes in non-traditional funerals. It’s important to decide on the format of the service, such as whether there will be prerecorded songs, eulogies, or prayers.
3. Use the Appropriate Location to Hold the Service
Ask members of the family for advice and a funeral director for recommendations. It is also important to research what types of funeral services the home or location offers, such as music, audio/visual, or any other amenities that may be appropriate. Contact the church or funeral home in advance to discuss the cost and make sure the date and time are available.
4. Collect the Pictures and Souvenirs
It is important to remember to collect photos and other memorabilia from the deceased person’s life that can be displayed at the service. This includes photographs, certificates, awards, artwork, and anything else that serves as a reminder of their life. If possible, display the items in a special area near the front of the service or an area near the guest register, or another entry area.
5. Music Selection and Planning for the Service
It’s important to choose music that reflects the deceased’s personality and legacy. There could be religious or secular music. It’s also important to plan the duration of the service and its conclusion.
This could mean deciding how many music pieces will be played and allowing enough time for friends and family to say their last words. A moment of silence or spoken words of comfort and closure can also be beneficial.
6. Create and Print Programs
In terms of designing the program, be sure to use a professional-looking font and incorporate colors or a photo to customize the program. When printing the program, use quality paper stock that fits your budget and pick a significant but tasteful typeface.
Lastly, be sure to list the date, time, and location of the funeral and provide contact information for guests seeking further details.
7. Make a List of Attendees
Creating a list of funeral attendees and distant family members or friends can be a helpful tip when planning a funeral. Friends and family members that know and love the deceased are important to include in an obituary so that people who wish to pay their respects can do so.
Additionally, creating a list of close and distant family members, as well as friends who can come to the funeral, will help with seating arrangements.
8. Prepare a Eulogy and Deliver It
To do this, begin by gathering memories that evoke a feeling of celebration and joy for the deceased. Write down stories, thoughts, and anecdotes about the departed. Focus on the legacy that person has left and pick the ones that capture a sense of the individual’s larger-than-life spirit.
Practice an effective delivery and recite the eulogy in a clear voice that conveys the emotion and message of the words. It’s natural to feel nervous when delivering the eulogy, but taking a deep breath and holding the audience’s gaze while speaking can help.
9. Make Sure To Provide Attendees With Food and Assistance
When planning a funeral, it is important to remember to provide attendees with food and assistance. Make arrangements in advance to have food and beverages available as soon as people arrive.
Have someone manage the food table to keep it stocked and clean throughout the visitation hours. You may also wish to provide assistance and assistance to those who may need help with seating or with attending the services.
Follow These Tips When Planning a Funeral
When planning a funeral the process can be stressful. However, following these tips can help ease some of the burdens and ensure the funeral runs smoothly. Choose an experienced funeral director and contact local professionals early on to guarantee everything will be taken care of in time.
Take the time to understand all the costs associated and come up with a plan to pay for them. Finally, make sure to take care of yourself during this difficult time. Make sure to reach out for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
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