Arranging a funeral may seem easier to do on paper but when it is time to take on the responsibility, it may seem impossible to do so.
This is because of the reality that these events occur during the grieving process, and people may find funeral planning distressing and frustrating, and the responsibility can seem daunting.
Funerals are held for two reasons—to acknowledge the death and accomplishments of a loved one and to bring grieving family members and friends together in support of one another during this difficult time. Many cultures have their way of conducting these ceremonies but some arrangements stay the same.
Listed down below are some helpful pointers for the burial arrangements that need to be made for a loved one.
Picking a Location
Burial planning entails making sure to check if the deceased has left a location in the will where they would wish to be buried or cremated. If not, what most families opt for is choosing a cemetery that has a connection to the family—perhaps where other family members are buried.
Once you have finalized a cemetery, the next step is to confirm a burial plot. It’s best to make sure that the plot is easily accessible and to do so, it should be communicated with the cemetery.
Choosing a Casket
When choosing a casket there are a few things to consider apart from the design. One very important detail to pay attention to is the material it is made up of. The majority of caskets are made out of wood but bronze and copper are the most durable metals and also non-rusting.
When considering the interior of the casket, satin and velvet are the most common choices. People usually choose white or purple for the color of the interior, but you can even opt for the deceased’s favorite color for a fitting burial.
Deciding the Participants
Determine which family members and friends may be needed to serve as pallbearers or who will be in charge of giving a eulogy. Some rely on a clergy representative to speak a few words about the person who has passed. Other details include choosing passages to be read at the service and arranging transportation to and from the service for family members.
In most funerals, the services are carried out by close family and friends. It’s also best to check the deceased’s will for any mention of whom they wished to be active participants.
Figuring Out the Details for the Service
There are many factors to think about when taking care of the burial arrangements, such as which funeral music or hymns are to be played or sung during the service. Since your loved one is to be buried, clothing must be chosen, and the family should be consulted to determine whether jewelry, photographs, or other heirlooms should be buried with the loved one.
It’s also necessary to make plans for photos and other displays, videos, memorabilia, and post-service meals when planning the burial proceedings.
Hiring a Funeral Director
A funeral director can relieve your burden of taking care of the burial arrangements. There’s no one way to explain the emotions one goes through at a funeral, especially if it is a loved one who’s passed.
Funeral directors, however, offer a variety of services. They complete and collect all official paperwork, including the processing of the death certificate, and assist with all other aspects of the burial arrangements, like arranging transportation and being in charge of any religious activities that may take place at the service.
Obtain help during burial arrangements for a loved one
It’s always best to ask for help either from family members or professional funeral service providers who understand what needs to be done. This will not only help you in the grieving process but also lessen the burden of planning out a burial.
