Three Small Details to Consider When Arranging a Funeral
The funeral arranging process is undoubtedly difficult, and you'll spend a lot of time choosing the time and date, hiring a venue, planning post-funeral food, and deciding who will give the eulogy or speeches. This means that some of the smaller details of the funeral can go unnoticed, though details can really add to the atmosphere and make the funeral feel more personal to your loved one. This article explains three small details to consider when planning a funeral.
Choose the Perfect Flowers
You should take some time to think about funeral flowers. First, you need to decide whether you want flowers at all — just because they're traditional, doesn't mean they suit everyone. Flowers like lilies, roses, carnations, and orchids are timeless and popular choices, but perhaps your loved one had a different favourite flower. Maybe you can think of something that suits their personality, such as a bright, cheerful sunflower. If you're not sure what to choose or don't know where to get the flowers, speak to your funeral director for ideas. You should also think about whether you want other attendees to bring flowers, or whether that's something that doesn't appeal to you.
Think about Music
It's also a good idea to devote some time to thinking about music. Even if you decide not to have everyone sing hymns, it's still a nice idea to have music playing as people enter and exit the funeral space. Think carefully about the type of music your loved one enjoyed, and what music sums up how you feel about them. Would some classical music feel right, or would a favourite pop song make everyone smile? Classic FM has a great list of classical pieces for funerals, and you can find similar lists online for other types of music. You might also want to speak to your funeral director about how you will physically play the music, and whether you need to bring anything to do so.
Decide Whether to Use Photos or Pictures
Many people choose to have some photos or images for attendees to look at during the funeral, typically at the front of the room so that they can really visualise their loved one while listening to the eulogy. Choose a favourite photograph of your loved one, or pick a handful to create a sort of collage. Maybe a traditional portrait-style photo would be suitable, perhaps a photo of them in a favourite holiday spot, or even a picture of them with their family. Find out what you need to do to get the photo printed and how to display it.
By choosing flowers, music and photographs that feel personal and special to your loved one, you can help attendees remember them and say goodbye to them more easily. If you're not sure what to choose or are worried you've missed some small details, speak to your funeral director for advice and guidance.
For more information on funeral arranging, contact a professional near you.