When a loved one dies, there are countless decisions to make when planning their funeral, which can be overwhelming for grieving family members. That’s why some people decide to take care of their own funeral planning and make their wishes known in advance. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning funeral services.

A Brief Funeral Planning Checklist

1. Select the Type of Service

You can decide between a traditional burial and cremation, and there may be a viewing ceremony in either case. You can also arrange burial services at the time of the service, or conduct a memorial service sometime after the cremation occurs. A memorial may even be scheduled after a traditional burial to give friends and family members time to make travel arrangements.

2. Personalize the Event

Whether you’re planning a simple ceremony or an elaborate memorial service, it pays to add personal touches. Start by choosing the pallbearers, speakers, and attendees. You may want to have readings of poetry, scripture, or other relevant text. The event can also include music the deceased enjoyed, or videos they were pictured in. Finally, you’ll have to decide if and what type of food will be served.

3. Choose the Final Resting Place

Part of the funeral planning process is selecting the final resting place for your loved one. There may be several cemeteries in your area, and each will have different spaces. It’s also traditional to engrave a headstone with a heartfelt saying to memorialize the departed. Lastly, you may be allowed to place certain keepsakes in the casket.

Funeral planning will require you to make a lot of decisions at once. Luckily, the funeral directors at Whitley’s Funeral Home can make the process a lot easier. They have served the community of Kannapolis, NC, for more than 100 years. Their caring staff will make the process as smooth as possible for you, so you can concentrate on honoring the life of your loved one. Visit the website for more information or call the funeral home at (704) 933-2222.