Funeral Planning Tips
Death is most people's greatest fear. However, planning your funeral is a great relief to your family members as they would have an easy time laying you to rest. The extract below provides some essential funeral planning tips.
Method of Burial
Ground burials and cremations are the most popular types of funerals today. However, depending on your culture and personal preferences, you may opt to be mummified, a promession, tree burial, plastination or sea burial.
If you opt for ground burial, inform your family members of your preferred burial site. If you prefer cremation, you could ask family members to keep your ashes, throw them at sea or use them to create memorial jewellery.
Funeral Home
Choosing a funeral home can be a daunting task. Below are some useful tips:
- Visit a few funeral homes. Examine what each business has to offer. Some of your concerns should include the hygiene of the funeral home, staff professionalism and the packages provided.
- Choose a funeral home located close to your burial site and where your family will hold the wake.
- The funeral home should have adequate parking space and utilities, such as private holding rooms and washrooms.
- Look for a funeral home that accommodates your cultural practices. For instance, your family may want to perform rites and rituals on the body.
Consider the Services of a Funeral Director
A funeral director can significantly ease the funeral planning process. He or she will help your family execute the agreed funeral arrangements. For instance, the director can help family members secure your death certificate. The director also takes charge of event planning. For example, he or she will help your family plan the wake and funeral ceremony. Besides, the director may also provide counselling to the bereaved.
When choosing a funeral director, rely on reputation and experience. Besides, the individual should be a people person with excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
Budgeting
How will you settle the funeral expenses? If you have a life insurance cover, you do not have to worry since most policies have a funeral benefit clause. Alternatively, you could save funds in a joint account. Once you pass on, the funds are available to your family members. Some people opt for pre-paid funeral plans offered by funeral homes. When choosing a plan, evaluate the reputation of the funeral home and its financial strength. The plan should cater for all funeral expenses.
When preparing a funeral, consider the method of burial, find a suitable funeral home, work with a reputable funeral director and determine how to settle funeral expenses.