What's Involved In Planning Ahead?

What’s Involved in Planning Ahead?

Okay, so you have decided that pre-planning your funeral arrangements may be a good idea. But what’s next? Don’t worry if you have no idea what to do. Most Canadian’s are not sure where to turn or who to talk to about making funeral arrangements in advance. It’s common to have these questions and honestly, you should not feel the need to be an expert in funeral service. That’s what funeral directors are for, and they are always here to help. 

However, if you are considering pre-planning your funeral or help a loved one go through the process, follow this step by step guide for how to pre-plan. It will help you understand what is involved and how to navigate the process with confidence. There is no template for pre-planning, although there are several universal steps that are seen in almost every arrangement. The first step is understanding that death is inevitable and that planning for it is beneficial. Once you have accepted this and want to give it a try, it is time to find the right provider. Do some research and make sure you are choosing a reputable firm. It is also totally okay to shop around - but once you find out, follow these important steps. 

Step One: Decide on Your Budget

The average cost of a funeral in Canada is over $6,000, but that number only seems like a lot if you don't understand what goes into a funeral. In order to properly understand funeral costs and budget for a funeral, you would need to discuss pricing with a trained professional who can help you make the right choice. Once you do that, explore what kind of budget your family has now and may potentially have in the future. It is key to think about all aspects of the funeral, like the burial or cremation, the preparation, the rental of the venue or funeral home and the hearse to name a few. Consider a headstone, urn or casket and other potential options that can add cost. If you understand the basic range of expected costs, we suggest that you do some further research about the service fees charged by a funeral home. There is nothing wrong with shopping around to build your understanding and budget.

Step Two: Do Your Research & Choose a Funeral Home

Now it is time to decide which funeral home you want to plan and carry out your funeral plan. But before you do, make sure that you conduct some online research and talk to other people that you know who have been through the same experience. Seeing online reviews, and hearing what people have to say is one of the best ways to find a local funeral home. In order to narrow down, look deeper into the qualities of individual funeral homes. Finding the right fit means different things for different people. Decide what’s best for you and choose to work with a firm that can make it happen. Some people make their choice based on these questions: 

  • Is the firm corporate or family-owned? 
  • Do they have an entirely licensed staff? 
  • Is the staff involved in helping the community? 
  • Do they offer any comprehensive packages? 
  • Does the funeral home have roots in my community?

Choose a Funeral Home

Step Three: Rely on the Staff

Once you have chosen the firm you want to work with, it is important to take full advantage of the knowledgeable staff’s input and guidance. Remember, they have helped many people in your exact situation and are able to see the negative impacts of not pre-planning a funeral. Ask as many questions as you want. They will help you explore your options and talk you through choosing the right ones. They’ll be the most reliable source for pricing and comparing what’s available. Don’t feel like you are bugging them, helping is what they do. 

Step Four: Pay Attention to The Details

It can be easy to get caught up in the major details of pre-planning a funeral. However, don’t overlook the little things. There are many factors that contribute to the experience people have when they attend a funeral. 

Some questions to ask yourself include:
  • What will it look like? 
  • What will it smell like or sound like?
  • Is there a video you want to be played?
  • Is there a specific flowers you want to be displayed? 
Put yourself in the shoes of people that will be there and decide what kind of sensory experience you want them to have. 

Step Five: Keep A Record & Be Proud

Though the funeral will keep a record of everything, you should also write everything down to keep a personal or family record of what you have decided. Keep it in a safe place and sit back knowing that you have pre-planned your funeral, which is a huge benefit for you and your family. The peace of mind is worth dealing with such a morbid reality ahead of time. 
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