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Most people don’t really think about how they would arrange a funeral until they are forced to do so by fate. This means that you are trying to organize and make the right decisions while your judgement is likely to be clouded by your grief. And, to make matters worse, lots of people will have their own views on what the funeral should entail. 

To make this process a little easier, here are a few things you should consider. 

The Cost

We Brits can be sensitive about money but the cost of a funeral UK varies a lot depending on the funeral directors you choose. It’s always a good idea to think about the cost of any funeral while you are planning and it’s wise to shop around too. There’s no disrespect in getting value for money.

If you are worried about the cost of a funeral, you can apply for help covering the costs. However, this may not cover the whole cost of the funeral, depending on your circumstances. 

The Will

Most people will suggest their preferences or leave instructions for their funeral. This can be as basic as indicating whether they would prefer to be buried or cremated but they may specify other things too. Many people make provision for funeral costs in their will and may even add some extra funds for a wake or party in their honour. 

While there is no legal obligation to follow the wishes laid out in a will, it is good manners and most people do. Another good reason to follow the instructions is that you don’t need to make as many decisions yourself. 

Wishes left in a joint will are just as valued as those in an individual will. 

The Memorial or Wake

After a funeral service, it is customary to hold an event to bring mourners together. There is usually food provided. This gives people a chance to talk and share memories of the deceased. Putting pictures up of the deceased from various stages of life and with their friends and family is a great way to start the conversation. Similarly, asking people to bring pictures, plates of food and suggest music is a nice way to include others in the planning process. 

If you are holding the funeral in a church, you are likely to get use of the church hall for the wake but you could also host the event in your home, at a hotel or a sports club. Most people from the funeral service will want to join you at the wake so make sure you choose a venue where everyone can attend. 

When you are planning a funeral, it can feel like you have to make a lot of decisions in a very short space of time. But what is most important is that you give yourself time to think. No-one likes to talk about their death but discussing funeral arrangements with your loved ones is a good way to take a lot of their minds when the time comes.

Just remember, this is about creating a time to remember and mourn. The day is as much for you as it is for your loved one.