It is about bringing those you love together, at a time of loss. It’s a natural thing to do, and over time, has become a socially expected practice. More importantly, a funeral or memorial service, whether traditional, or contemporary, is the first step in healing.
You can have your service anywhere, and any way, you want. Your choices include the place of celebration, day of the week, and time of day; the musical selection, what prayers will be said or songs you would like sung. We are here to help you create the most memorable and meaningful service to honour your loved one.
Funeral Arrangement Meeting
Before your funeral arrangement meeting, think about the following:
Who will be the main point of contact for the funeral directors? Is it you or someone else? Decide who will be in charge of communicating with the funeral director.
Who will be there to support you? It is helpful to have a close friend or family member at the arrangements meeting for emotional support and to take notes for you.
Were there any arrangements made ahead of time? If your loved one expressed any details re funeral arrangement, purchased grave, or even simply wrote down preferences and wishes, gather the applicable notes and bring them to the funeral planning meeting.
What elements should be included in the funeral? What are your family traditions? What religious rites are required? What kind of funeral, burial or permanent memorial will best honor your loved one’s personality and life views? From a faith-based funeral followed by a cemetery burial to a no-holds-barred celebration, we specialize in creating personalized services.
Funeral Arrangements Checklist
- Deciding on burial or cremation
- Deciding where the service and/or ceremony will be
- Deciding on a coffin
- Whether to use embalming
- Choosing a cemetery and plot – preparation of grave
- Charitable donations to organizations
- Crafting an appropriate service
- Choosing a family member, religious leader, or celebrant to run the service
- Family viewing and visitation
- Choosing funeral music, scriptures, prayers, and readings
- Organising flower arrangements
- Writing an obituary and submitting it for publication
- Choosing a speaker for the eulogy
- Condolence/ Guest Book
