When it comes to planning a funeral, many people have questions about what it entails and how to go about it. Preplanning a funeral can bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones, ensuring that your wishes are respected and making the process easier for your family during a difficult time. Here are some frequently asked questions about preplanning a funeral:
What is funeral preplanning?
Funeral preplanning involves making arrangements for your own funeral in advance. This includes deciding on various elements such as the type of service, burial or cremation preferences, and other specific details. Preplanning ensures that your wishes are documented and followed, and it can also alleviate some of the emotional and financial burden on your loved ones.
Why should I preplan my funeral?
Preplanning offers several benefits:
Control and personalization:
You can ensure that your funeral reflects your personal preferences and values.
Financial relief:
Preplanning can help lock in today's prices for future services, potentially saving money.
Peace of mind:
Knowing that your arrangements are in place can bring comfort to you and your family.
Reducing stress for loved ones:
Your family won’t have to make difficult decisions during a time of grief.
What details should I consider when preplanning a funeral?
When preplanning, consider the following aspects:
Type of service:
Decide on what kind of service you want to have.
Burial or cremation:
Choose whether you want to be buried or cremated and select a cemetery plot or urn if applicable.
Funeral home:
Select a funeral home and discuss your plans with them.
Service specifics:
Plan details such as readings, music, and who will officiate.
Personal touches:
Include any personal preferences like flower arrangements, special mementos, or attire.
Financial arrangements:
Set aside funds or take out a funeral insurance policy to cover costs.
Can I change my plans later?
Yes, preplanning is flexible. You can update your plans as your preferences or circumstances change. It’s important to keep your plans updated and communicate any changes to your family and the funeral home.
How do I ensure my family knows about my preplanning?
After preplanning, inform your family about your decisions and where the documents are stored. This can be in the form of a written document, a pre-need contract with a funeral home, or even a discussion with your loved ones. Keeping them informed will ensure they can easily access and follow your wishes when the time comes.
How do I start the preplanning process?
To start preplanning your funeral you can sign up to receive one of our free helpful planning guides and reach out to our chapel to schedule a consultation.
Our pets become cherished members of our families, providing unconditional love, companionship, and joy to our lives. When they pass away, the grief we feel is genuine and profound. While our furry friends are only here for a short time, the impact they have on our lives is monumental. Here are some ways you can honor your beloved furry friend, after they’ve pass.
Create a memory box.
Putting together a box of items that remind you of a beloved pet can help you cope with their loss. Include items such as their collar, favorite toy, paw imprint, fur lock, and anything else that meant a lot to them. Keeping these items can bring comfort and closure after they have passed.
Spread their ashes somewhere meaningful.
If you choose to have your pet cremated, you can spread the ashes somewhere meaningful for your pet. You can even use the ashes to plant a tree in memory of them.
Donate to shelters in their memory
Animal shelters need donations, whether monetary donations or item donations. Donating to shelters in your beloved pet's name not only preserves your pet's memory, but also helps the animals in the shelter find their forever home.
Foster animals
Fostering is a great option if you aren't ready to get another pet but want to share the love you had for your pet with those in need. Because shelters fill up quickly, animals need foster homes. Fostering allows you to heal at your own pace, while sharing love with a pet in need.
Our pets become part of our family. During their time here on earth we share so many special moments with them, that when they are gone the emptiness left behind is unfathomable. It’s important to take proper care of yourself during this time of grief and figure out ways to keep your pet’s memory alive.
