When planning a funeral service for a loved one, every detail matters. One of the most important factors to consider is the setting. If the deceased was passionate about nature, holding the service outdoors is a wonderful option to honor them. Since there are more variables to consider when you hold a funeral outside, however, keep the following tips in mind.

A Guide to Outdoor Funeral Services

1. Maintain the Core Traditions

Aside from the scenery, an outdoor funeral service should maintain the basic elements of an indoor ceremony. This is especially helpful if you’re feeling overwhelmed, as it gives you a solid structure to work with. Include music, eulogies, and if applicable, religious prayers.

2. Incorporate Nature

Whether you’re scattering the ashes into the water, having guests plant seeds in the ground, or creating a memorial rock garden, incorporating nature can enhance an outdoor funeral service. In addition to highlighting the beauty of the location, this creates a sense of inclusion, which helps bring people closer together as they grieve.

3. Ask About Environmentally-Friendly Options

More and more funeral homes are offering ecologically-conscious burial options. This includes things like caskets made from sustainably-sourced wood, formaldehyde-free embalming products, and recycled paper for the service’s programs. If environmental protection and sustainability were part of the deceased’s love of nature, keep this in mind as you plan their funeral service.

4. Consider the Season

The time of year will determine what type of location will be available. Summer months yield the most options due to weather conditions, so if possible, consider postponing memorial services if there’s a certain location that was special to your loved one. In addition, you can incorporate seasonal themes into the service. For a fall funeral, embrace the leaves, pumpkins, and warm color tones of the season. In the spring, incorporate florals with pastels and greens.

5. Plan for Weather Changes

Even if the forecast seems benign, it’s best to have a contingency plan. Book a backup indoor location, or rent an event tent in case of rain. If it’s a particularly warm day, bring fans or hold the service in a shaded area.

If you’re considering an outdoor funeral service for a loved one, rely on the passionate team at Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors in McDonough, GA. The funeral home has served Henry County for nearly 80 years and is known for creating deeply personalized services. They understand that managing grief while simultaneously organizing a service is difficult, so they work closely with their customers to ensure your loved one has a thoughtful ceremony. To speak with a member of the team, call (770) 914-1414 or visit their website to learn more about their services.