Whether you’re planning a funeral service for a loved one or yourself, having a few guidelines in place will help you avoid common pitfalls. Funeral planning requires people to make fast decisions, which is especially difficult for grieving families. While there is no wrong way to plan a funeral, there are a few often-made mistakes that can create more stress and difficulty than necessary. 

3 Mistakes to Avoid While Planning a Funeral

1. Not Asking Questions

Whether you’ve planned a funeral in the past or are attempting it for the first time, it’s imperative to ask questions along the way. The outcome of the service will depend largely on how specific you are about your preferences with the director. If you’re planning a traditional burial, ask questions about the casket, pallbearers, viewing, and cemetery fees. If cremation is involved, ask about what type of paperwork should be completed beforehand and what your options are in terms of keeping the ashes. Answering all of your questions ahead of time will allow for clearer, easier decision-making. 

2. Budgeting Poorly

Setting a budget is a crucial component in successful funeral planning. Without a set budget, you are likely to end up spending more than you can reasonably afford to, making the entire process even more stressful. Before you meet with your funeral director, work out a budget that you are comfortable with. Relay the amount to your funeral director and ask to only be shown options that are within your allotted price range.

3. Not Communicating Clearly 

Planning an end-of-life event shouldn’t fall on the shoulders of a single person. Don’t be shy to ask your family, friends, or relatives of the deceased for some help and support during the initial planning stages. Keeping an open line of communication with others who were close to the departed will give you helpful resources when you falter on specific details. Plus, maintaining an open dialogue will give you support and peace of mind during this difficult time. 

If you are planning a funeral in Onalaska, WI, Fossum Funeral and Cremation Service provides comprehensive services to families all over the area. Since 1926, they have earned a strong reputation within their community as a one-stop shop for everything you need to make funeral planning a little easier. Focused on providing personalized, attentive care for every client, this group of licensed directors will provide support every step of the way. To contact a helpful representative, visit them online or call (608) 783-9777 today.