A Step By Step Guide To Planning A Funeral

Whether you’re planning a funeral for your loved one or helping someone else through this difficult time, there are lots of steps to take. This step by step guide will give you a helpful checklist of everything you need to know. It will also help you feel more comfortable with the funeral planning process, easing any anxiety you may have.

1. Decide On A Venue

The location for the service or wake can have a huge impact on how it goes. It’s important to choose a place that is both meaningful and accessible for friends and family, particularly if it isn’t where the deceased lived. If your loved one was religious, it may be a good idea to choose somewhere that they were familiar with or had a connection to, such as a church or synagogue. This can make the whole process easier for your loved ones and their guests.

2. Make An Order Of Service

The first thing you need to do is make an order of service for your loved one’s funeral. This is a booklet that outlines the events happening at the funeral and can be personalized to the person you are celebrating. It will include details such as what hymns and readings will be performed at the service, a list of people who will give eulogies or musical numbers and a timetable of proceedings. The funeral director or celebrant will be able to help you with this.

3. Select The Casket

When it comes to planning a funeral, caskets are a big-ticket item. They are often the first thing that families buy, so it’s important to choose one that will suit your budget. Caskets come in a variety of materials, from wood to metal and cardboard. They are also available in different designs and sizes, so it’s important to find a casket that fits your style and tastes.

4. Schedule The Visitation

Funerals are not only an important part of a person’s life but a meaningful way to celebrate a life. They’re also an opportunity to help people who are grieving a loss. The visitation, or viewing, is the first event held prior to the funeral. It’s a time when people are invited to show their respects to the deceased by stepping up to the casket. It’s common for people to feel nervous attending a visitation, but it’s important to understand that the family of the deceased appreciates your support. Then, stay for a short amount of time to give them the chance to see you.

5. Schedule The Funeral Service

You can choose to have a traditional funeral service at a church or funeral home, a graveside ceremony, or even a DIY celebration of life. Whatever the choice, it’s important to make it personal and reflect your loved one’s personality and beliefs. Once you’ve decided on a funeral service, you’ll need to work with the funeral director to schedule the service. This includes choosing pallbearers, arranging music, and completing the funeral program.