We Will Help You With Every Detail - Big or Small

The funeral or memorial service is an important step

toward healing hearts and providing closure.

We will guide you throughout the planning process, provide you with clear answers to all your questions, and share our insights and experience with you. In the end, you are in control, and we are here to assist your every request within reason.   

The following is an overview of the many aspects of service planning you will discuss during the arrangement conference. If you have any questions about this information, don’t hesitate to call us.
 

Where Should It Be Held?

Now that you have made the decision regarding burial versus cremation for your loved one, it is time to think about how you would like the service to look and feel. It is a testament to the life of someone you loved and should illustrate the depth of your caring relationship.

Traditionally, a service is held in the family’s church or in the chapel of the funeral home. But, in today’s world you can choose to hold the service almost anywhere that is meaningful to you.  Your choices are limited only by your imagination.

You can rely heavily on your Funeral Director to help you in selecting the perfect location and assist you  to create a memorable service.

What Day of the Week and Time of the Day are Best?

The answer depends on the location you’ve selected and the schedules of those you wish to attend. 

Who Will Officiate the Service?

You can choose to have a minister, priest, rabbi or any clergy of your faith officiate at the service.  If you do not have an affiliation or know who to ask, we will be happy to pair you with a member of the clergy who will be fitting for your family, regardless of your current religious activity.

There are Other Decisions, Too

These are the decisions which shape and personalize the service. For example, you will need to think about the following:

• Will the service be open-ended, or will guests be told the service ends at a specific time?
• Which flowers, and in what colors, would you like to see surrounding the casket or urn?
• Will  you bring in favorite collections to be displayed?
• What type of music you would like to be played – and specifically, what selections?
• Would you like a memorial video of your loved one prepared?
• Will the casket be personalized or engraved?
• Will you appoint a family member to put together collages or picture boards?
• Will there be transportation provided, to and from the service for friends and family?
• Will you have a time in the service where people can share memories of your loved one?
• Will there be a bagpiper or musician?
• Will there be a traditional eulogy? And if so, who will present it?
• Would you like the funeral procession to pass by the house or a particular place?
• If there is to be a burial, will it be private or open to all who choose to come?
• Would you like a dove or butterfly release at the cemetery?
• Should the funeral director make an announcement at the close or invite family and friends on your behalf to a gathering after?
• Are there close personal friends or business partners you'd wish to have service responsibilities?

If you’d like to learn more about any of the details involved in planning a funeral or memorial service for a loved one, call or email us.