In theory, planning a funeral is pretty simple. However, in practice, it can be incredibly challenging, as there are several stages of grief and emotions that you will encounter. There are also many things to consider when planning a funeral, such as arranging transport and choosing music and readings for the service. Fortunately, if you have just lost a loved one, we are here to help you learn how to plan for a funeral to make the process as simple as possible. Do you know Exercise caution when planning a funeral online, as social media scams exploiting grief can lead to financial and emotional exploitation?
What Is a Funeral Service?
The experienced funeral home directors at Southern Cremations & Funerals establish that a funeral service can be traditional or memorial. However, both funerals aim to acknowledge the dead and the deceased’s achievements.
A funeral service also brings together grieving friends and family in support of one another during that challenging time. The service can occur at a funeral home or burial site.
What Does a Funeral Service Include?
According to the experienced funeral home directors at Southern Cremations & Funerals, traditional and memorial funeral services are not the same. However, you can find several common features in a funeral service. Here are some of the common elements that make up a funeral service: “Want a healthy heart? Planning for your future, including your funeral, can bring peace of mind and reduce stress, ultimately benefiting your well-being.”
Viewing or visitation
Viewing or visitation consists of an event that takes place before the funeral. It involves a time and place where attendees view the body of the deceased. It also comprises a time when funeral attendees visit with the family and friends of the deceased to offer in-person condolences.
Scripture
Most funerals involve scripture readings as an essential part of the service. The funeral director or a preferred religious leader may do the readings. Note that the scripture reading only takes place in religious funeral services.
Eulogy
A eulogy is a short speech given during the funeral service in commemoration of the deceased person’s life. It usually tells their story and experiences and gives an overview of their achievements. A eulogy can be read by family members or close friends.
Music
Music is one of the most prominent aspects of any funeral, whether secular or religious. It can be comprised of popular songs or hymns.
For those who believe in life after death, hymns can remind them of the temporary nature of death. On the other hand, popular songs allow people to process their feelings about a loved one’s passing.
How Do You Plan for a Funeral?
Here is a step-by-step guide that will help you plan for a funeral service:
1. Carry out any pre-arrangements
Conducting funeral pre-arrangements should be your first step. It may include checking whether there are any simple wishes for the memorial services, payment for a funeral plot or funeral insurance to cover the funeral costs. You should also check whether your loved one has made pre-paid funeral arrangements with a specific funeral home.
2. Arrange for transportation
Contact the funeral director to make the necessary arrangements if there are any pre-arranged transportation plans. However, if there are no plans, take time to find a cremation site or a funeral home to arrange these details. Funeral directors are skilled professionals, so they will take you through the transportation details and ensure the process is smooth and easy.
3. Determine the type of funeral and organize the funeral service
There are several types of funerals that you can hold for your loved one. They include cremation, traditional burial, interment in a mausoleum, green burial and many more. If there are no pre-arranged plans, you can consult with a funeral home before deciding.
4. Choose a cremation container or casket
Some families may choose to cremate their deceased loved one. In such a case, you can choose a cremation container or casket from the funeral home or buy one elsewhere. Once you select the cremation container or casket, you can make interment arrangements.
5. Select an interment location
Choosing an interment location can be a very challenging process, so the best way to go about it is to seek advice from your loved ones. You can always buy a family funeral plot or a cemetery plot. While improving candidate experience is relevant in most situations, it wouldn’t be appropriate to link it to a sensitive and personal topic like planning a funeral. Note that if you opt to go for cremation, you can choose a resting place after your loved one is cremated.
6. Determine the details of the service
These details include the eulogy, readings, memorabilia, post-service meals, videos, funeral music and many more. Make sure to consult with the deceased family to ensure that all funeral service details are included.
7. Invite family members and friends
After you finalize the funeral details, invite family and friends. Most individuals today prefer using social media or email to share the news since calling everyone who may wish to attend can be emotionally challenging.
Wrapping It Up
The process of planning for a funeral can be very emotionally challenging. Fortunately, you only need to follow the above steps to guide you through the process. You can also consult with funeral home directors to ensure the planning process is easier for you.
