Arranging a funeral can be a complicated and stressful thing to do, especially when you have to make all these arrangements at such a difficult time. Therefore we have compiled and useful checklist to ease the pressure and help you make your farewell as perfect and memorable as possible.
- The Coffin
This can be one of the biggest and most costly decisions to be faced with. Your funeral director may provide you with options, but you are free to make your own choices. Should you not wish to opt for a traditional wooden coffin, cardboard coffins provide a more cost-effective and eco-friendlier option. Plus, they can be personalised with absolutely any design of your choice. See our gallery for further information. - The Music
The music played at a funeral is such a personal and individual choice. Do not feel that you have to choose religious hymns or songs – nowadays many people opt for more modern music to be played at different points during the funeral service. You may wish to consider music for the coffin to enter the church or crematorium, music / hymns during the service and something to be played during the final moments. Discuss your wishes with your church or crematorium and they will advise in which format the music needs to be provided to them. - The Flowers
Floral arrangements can be beautiful and provide a respectful tribute, however many people prefer to ask for donations to a charity instead of floral arrangements. You may wish to provide your own specific arrangements and but ask others to simply make a donation. Think about what the deceased would prefer. - The Catering
Whether you have decided to hold the wake at someone’s home, or in a venue, you will need to consider the most suitable catering arrangements. If using a venue, they may provide catering options. If not, there are many mobile caterers out there that can assist. Think about the time of day that the wake will take place – will your guests require lunch, afternoon tea or supper? Will everyone that attends the funeral also attend the wake? It can be hard to estimate numbers, but your caterers or venue should be able to provide advice and solutions. - Printed Material
There may be certain items that you would like printed for the service or the wake? An order of service is most common, but you can produce whatever you feel is most appropriate. Many people also display a selection of photographs at the wake. There are many printing companies that can assist with funeral requirements – your funeral director may have contacts they can recommend. Try to ensure this is carried out in advance to avoid any last minute panics. - The Eulogy
Some people like to have a eulogy read during the funeral – delivered by someone who knew the deceased well. Not every funeral has a eulogy read, but if think you’d like to consider this, then please see our ‘How to write a Eulogy’ article. - Other things to consider
Funerals are such a personal event and it is important to remember that there is no right or wrong way to organise things. Aim to deliver the most fitting and memorable tribute for your loved one. You may want to consider what your loved one will wear when they are laid to rest, or if there are any items you’d like to include in their coffin.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s from family or friends, your funeral director, your vicar or anyone else – you don’t need to do this alone.
Funerals are changing and evolving and don’t need to follow the traditional format. From pictorial cardboard coffins to modern music choices, focus on organising a funeral that you know best represents your loved one. We’re all different in life and those differences can be reflected in death.
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