There are few things more devastating than the passing of a loved one. While the emotional anguish can be earth-shattering, one thing that takes those in mourning by surprise is just how much painstaking admin is associated with death.
In fact, a third of all Americans have no plans in place whatsoever for when they die. This leaves their grieving loved ones to make complex bureaucratic arrangements while dealing with immense emotional pain.
One of the most difficult of these arrangements is the funeral preparation. If you’re in pain and don’t know where to begin, read this two-minute explainer on funeral planning to get started.
Determine Funeral Preparation Preferences
Before organizing a funeral service, you need to assess what the deceased’s preferences regarding this might be. Maybe they had a plan, or maybe they didn’t.
Either way, the first step is to determine whether they had given this any thought, and if there is any evidence in writing or from family members about what they wanted for their funeral. If you can find this information, you will be well-placed to arrange a funeral that provides comfort to both the departed and their loved ones.
Select a Service Provider
Your next step is to find a service provider that meets the needs of the family and the deceased, including budgetary needs. While funerals can be expensive, it is possible to find providers that will offer you a service for a good price.
For example, this provider in Salt Lake City offers a traditional service combined with cremation package that can help families tick off the necessary boxes, without breaking the bank.
Make sure the provider is located where your loved one would wish to be interned or cremated. Consider how accessible the grave site will be for others who wish to mourn, and always choose a reputable provider with good references and reviews.
Plan the Ceremony
After this, it’s time to plan the ceremony. This involves all of the basics, such as the date and time of the service and the number of invitees. You may have to work with the provider to make difficult decisions on matters such as gravesite location and coffin type.
You may also wish to consult family and friends on ceremonial touches such as music, speeches, flowers, and any personal touches that reflect the life of the departed, ideally at a reasonable cost. Remember, your funeral provider will be a qualified professional, there to help you make and execute those choices with compassion and care.
Keep Your Family Prepared and Informed
Funeral preparation is never an easy undertaking. However, with the right amount of foresight and organization, you can put together good funeral arrangements that does the deceased a service, without too much stress to yourself.
For more essential insights on the decisions you can make today to help your family tomorrow, we have got you covered. Our dedicated Family, Health, and Home guides cover all of those big decisions, from schools to healthcare to elder care, that we all have to make for our loved ones.
