When a loved one passes away, the remaining family members and friends often have to make a number of decisions about the funeral. In most cases, these decisions have to be made quickly in the midst of great emotional duress.

Such decisions leave many questions to be answered:

• What type of funeral should we have?
• What funeral provider should we choose?
• Should we cremate or bury the body? Should we donate it to science?
• What does the law require us to buy?
• What other arrangements should we plan?
• How much is everything going to cost?

Every year, Americans spend billions of dollars planning over two million funerals. During this process, many questions like those listed above have to be confronted and settled. With this in mind, a growing trend has emerged in which individuals are choosing pre-need planning (the process of making funeral arrangements in advance). This trend implies that more and more consumers want to compare services and prices before making a final decision. Taking this route, consumers are able to arrange a funeral that reflects a purchasing decision that is meaningful as well as prudent and informed.

There are, essentially, two phases to planning a funeral. During the first phase, you work in conjunction with your local funeral director to go over your options. After you’ve narrowed down your choices and arranged the actual ceremony, the second phase involves the arrangement of financing.

Planning a Funeral Ceremony

1. Decide on the kind of service you want.

• Small or large?
• Traditional or creative?

These days, a number of families plan funerals that reflect the accomplishments and contributions and accomplishments of their dearly departed loved one.

2. Select the final resting place.

• Mausoleum?
• Cemetery plot?
• Cremation? If you choose to be cremated, what would you like to be done with your ashes?

Considering your options far in advance is much better than rushing to make a decision on such a sensitive issue. Give yourself time to think about what best suits your preferences and lifestyle.

With the assistance of your personal funeral home funeral director, you can arrange a funeral that will be a tribute to the deceased that is both dignified and personal.