Choosing Cremation AFTER Burial

April 10th, 2018
Choosing Cremation AFTER Burial

Choosing Cremation AFTER Burial

It is a common assumption that once a body is buried, you have reached the end of the road. As soon as the dirt is packed and the gravestone erected, there is nothing more to be done for the deceased except to visit and leave the occasional bouquet of flowers. (more…)

What to Do When There is No Funeral

April 6th, 2018
What to Do When There is No Funeral

What to Do When There is No Funeral

Not everyone is grieved in a big, formal way. Although most families hold some sort of memorial service when a loved one dies, there are times when there is no commemoration planned. This might be due to scheduling conflicts, a lack of finances, a recent spate of deaths in the family, or even because it was what the deceased wished. (more…)

Who Makes the Funeral Decisions?

April 2nd, 2018
Who Makes the Funeral Decisions?

Who Makes the Funeral Decisions?

When a loved one dies, there are many decisions that will have to be made about what to do with the body, where to plan the funeral, and what to do about other financial and personal issues. Most people know that the default person responsible for this decision-making is the spouse, but what if the deceased was unmarried? What if they made alternate arrangements? And what if there is some disagreement about who gets to be in charge? (more…)

Do I Have to Write an Obituary?

April 2nd, 2018
Do I Have to Write an Obituary?

Do I Have to Write an Obituary?

When a loved one dies, it is customary to write an obituary to be published in the local paper, on the funeral home website, or on social media. This brief overview of the deceased’s life not only informs people of the death (and the memorial service and/or funeral), but also commemorates things like careers, awards, education, children, and grandchildren. (more…)

Non-Florist Funeral Flower Options

March 28th, 2018
Non-Florist Funeral Flower Options

Non-Florist Funeral Flower Options

To send a quick and easy display of funeral flowers, most people turn to a florist. And no wonder—these companies have a large stock of flowers and gift baskets, and they are experienced at working with funeral homes to make the process as streamlined as possible. After all, the last thing you want to worry about during this stressful time is whether or not your arrangement made it to the funeral on time. (more…)

Jewelry to Wear to a Funeral

March 23rd, 2018
Jewelry to Wear to a Funeral

Jewelry to Wear to a Funeral

Because funerals tend to be formal and call for more careful attention to your attire than usual, it makes sense that you will put on some jewelry before you leave the house. A string of pearls, an understated watch, a favorite family brooch—all these things are common to wear to a funeral and can appear very tasteful. (more…)

Small, Effective Ways to Help a Grieving Family

March 19th, 2018
Small, Effective Ways to Help a Grieving Family

Small, Effective Ways to Help a Grieving Family

One of the most difficult things about death is the feeling of helplessness that results. Although you probably sympathize with the grieving family and want to do something to help, knowing how to reach out is difficult. Maybe they want to be alone right now. Maybe they are bombarded with offers of help. Maybe they do not know what they need or are too afraid to ask. (more…)

How to Write a Thank You Note to a Funeral Home

March 13th, 2018
How to Write a Thank You Note to a Funeral Home

How to Write a Thank You Note to a Funeral Home

When you are coping with the loss of a loved one, some of the most important support you will get does not come from friends or family – it comes from the funeral home staff. These professionals are educated and trained to help you make burial decisions, plan a funeral, and access the support services you need as you move forward with your life. The staff is available to listen when you need it, and often provide around-the-clock answers to all your questions. (more…)

Etiquette for Visiting a Cemetery

March 8th, 2018
Etiquette for Visiting a Cemetery

Etiquette for Visiting a Cemetery

Most people know that when you visit a cemetery for a burial, there are rituals and guidelines for your behavior. However, there are also etiquette rules for when you go to the cemetery later on—either to visit the grave of a loved one or simply to take in the ambiance. (more…)

How Much Should I Spend on Funeral Flowers?

March 3rd, 2018
How Much Should I Spend on Funeral Flowers?

How Much Should I Spend on Funeral Flowers?

Sending funeral flowers is a common practice in this day and age, but that does not mean all of us have experience with it. In fact, if you recently experienced the loss of a friend or relative and you want to send a floral display to show your regard, you may be wondering how much you should spend. Depending on your relationship to the deceased, the type of funeral being held, and your own personal finances, funeral flowers can cost anywhere from $30 to $800. Here is how to figure out what you should spend on a funeral arrangement. (more…)