Planning a funeral or memorial service is often a difficult and stressful time. Fortunately, many people are surrounded by friends and relatives who are willing to step in and relieve some of that stress. For over a century, Cincinnati’s Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home has been helping the area’s residents plan services that pay homage to their deceased loved ones. This family owned and operated funeral home offers a range of important products and services that include pre-arrangements, cremation options, and caskets for clients who prefer burials. Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home also provides grief support to help families and groups of friends cope with their loss and begin healing.

There are many ways you can help a friend who is in the midst of planning a memorial service. One of the most important things you can do is offer your time and willingness to listen. Your friend is processing many complicated emotions at the same time, which can be overwhelming. Listen to your friend as he or she talks through their thoughts and feelings about the service itself, and any other friends and relatives who may be attending. Your friend may want to invite guests to speak or read during the service. Take notes about these wishes so your friend can refer to them later. Staying organized can help reduce stress and the feeling of being overwhelmed.

You can also help by asking your friend about specific tasks that need to be addressed, such as preparing and editing a eulogy, or choosing an appropriate outfit for the memorial service. If your friend already has an outfit in mind, offer to bring it to the dry cleaner and pick it up when it’s ready. If your friend needs to buy something new, take him or her shopping. Not only will you be helping your friend physically prepare for the service, you will be able to talk more about how they’re feeling. If your friend feels up to it, you may even want to stop by a salon for a haircut or manicure so he or she feels refreshed ahead of the service.

Giving a friend some of your time is one of the most important things you can do, especially during a difficult period. For more advice about how you can help a grieving friend after the memorial service, visit Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home online, or call (513) 921-4144 to speak with a funeral director about additional resources that may be helpful.