When it comes to the time when you have to plan a funeral it can be quite a daunting experience. You should make sure that you are emotionally prepared for the process and that you are ready to be practical when you can. The first step is to find a funeral home that you can trust. You should make sure that you have done your research and that you’re confident that you have found the right funeral director for you.
If you are planning a funeral in the near future, please take a moment to read through the tips below.
1. If you have the option, plan ahead
There is absolutely nothing wrong with planning ahead for your own funeral. Many prefer this option as it takes the burden off your family to make decisions about the service after you have passed. If you do choose to so this, make sure that you have chosen a funeral home that has a good reputation and has been in business for some time. This due diligence will help you avoid any nasty surprises should the funeral home fall on hard times and go out of business.
2. Shop around for the casket or urn
Just like with any purchase, you should make sure that you have done your research and found the right casket or urn for you or your loved one. This can open up more choices and also save you money.
3. If you’re on a budget, say so.
The last thing that you want is to be offered a whole list of expensive services and products if you are on a tight budget. The funeral home will be more than happy to tailor the options they present to you to be in line with what you can afford.
4. Get a breakdown of the costs
Before you agree to anything, make sure that you have seen a breakdown of the costs of each element of the funeral service. If you are looking at a package there may be some elements that you don’t need or want to be included and you should make that known right from the outset. You may find that the packages are not for you and that you want to create your own tailored service with the elements that you want to be there.
5. You can use an urn for the viewing
This is becoming more and more common among viewings as the service is a lot less expensive if no body is present.
6. If you’re unsure about something, ask!
You may not be sure of what you need to do before and after the service. If you have any questions at all about what you should be doing at any point in the day then you should feel free to ask the funeral home any questions you have.
If you don’t know what will be happening on the day this can cause added stress to an already emotional day. Being as prepared as possible can make things go a lot easier for everyone.
7. Don’t feel pressured to purchase an urn or casket
You should not feel rushed into a purchase that you have not had time to think about. Now, you don’t have a long time to decide but you should definitely take a few moments to think through the options that you have and make an informed decision. It is a great idea to invite someone else along so that you have a second pair of eyes and ears. This extra emotional support can make a huge difference.