Archive for December, 2010

After the Service – Funeral Etiquette

Wednesday, December 29th, 2010

After the Service – Funeral EtiquetteFor those not involved with the actual funeral planning, it can be awkward to know what to do. Fortunately, there are standard “rules” of funeral etiquette that can help you navigate the situation. Everything from funeral attire to expressions of sympathy is covered on many funeral resources such as this site.

The Funeral Service

The parts of the funeral that most people are familiar with are the memorial service and the burial. In some cases, the memorial service may actually take place “graveside” and will include the burial. During the services, a eulogy will usually be offered, a religious ceremony may take place, and guests are sometimes given the opportunity to speak before the attendees in order to share their memories of the deceased.

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Pre-Need Funeral Planning: Where to Start

Tuesday, December 28th, 2010

Pre-Need Funeral Planning: Where to StartThe thought of spending time on funeral planning is not generally a fun one, but by taking the opportunity to engage in what is known as “pre-need funeral planning,” you can take a significant burden off of your loved ones when the time comes. In addition, you have the reassurance of knowing that things will be done the way you want them done. Your funeral plans can be as general as you like, basically paying in advance for a casket and cemetery plot; or you can work out the smallest details such as what funeral flowers and musical arrangements you would like at the service.

A list of what is involved in funeral planning can provide a good place to start own. Most people are completely surprised at the number of details that go into planning a funeral. The vast number of questions to be answered can completely overwhelmed family members who are simultaneously dealing with the loss of a loved one. This is another reason that pre-need funeral planning is so helpful.

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Funeral Attendance and Etiquette

Monday, December 27th, 2010

Funeral Attendance and EtiquetteShould you send funeral flowers? Is it OK to wear blue instead of black? What should you say?

These are all questions that may run through your mind when planning to attend a funeral. Times like these tend to cause people to walk on eggshells, and knowing the proper funeral etiquette can be helpful in alleviating some nerves. Being aware of what to expect and the role you will play can make funeral attendance less intimidating. If you plan to attend the services or send funeral flowers, you should be aware that there could be multiple services. For example, a “visitation” or “viewing” may take place at the funeral home sometime before the actual funeral or memorial service. This can be a time to visit the deceased and to lend kind words to the family. The memorial service itself can be held at the funeral home, a house of worship, or even in the cemetery.

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Save Money with a Green Funeral

Thursday, December 23rd, 2010

Save Money with a Green FuneralIf you’re a fan of recycling, turning down the thermostat, and otherwise doing your part for the environment, then you may have already considered a green funeral in your funeral planning process. If you simply like to save money, however, you might also want to pay attention to this newer option in funeral arrangements.

What is Involved in a Green Funeral?

Those opting for a green funeral will generally avoid being embalmed, a service that does come with a price tag that will often range from $100 to $700. One of the most expensive aspects when adding up the cost of a funeral is the price of the casket. These items can be extremely elaborate with a price to match. In the case of a green funeral, however, the remains are usually placed into a biodegradable container. This could be a cardboard box, a simple shroud, or even a plain wooden casket.

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