Nothing is certain except death and taxes
Benjamin Franklin, 1789.
Everyone has a life story to tell full of beautiful memories, wonderful times full of ups and sometimes downs. We only get one funeral, one chance for our loved ones to say goodbye, so it is very important that it is perfect, a true reflection of the person that has passed and the life that they lived. From the choice of music to the memories that are shared and everything in between, planning a funeral service is a great responsibility.
Losing someone and saying goodbye is difficult enough and when I meet families after a loved one has passed away, often, their anxiety is heightened by not knowing what the person would have wanted the service to be like, what music they wanted or if they would have preferred a prayer or a poem to be included. It can be very distressing for the families that are planning the service, but this does not have to be the case. In my experience, where a loved one has written down their wishes, it has been such a relief to the family when planning the service. The stress difference is remarkable.
Many people plan their will or their financial affairs, even the funeral itself, but few think about the funeral service. By taking the time to put your wishes in place now, you relieve your loved ones of difficult decisions and ensure your service is personal, meaningful, completely unique to you exactly as you’d like it.
There are different ways you can make your wishes known:
- Write them down yourself.
- Write your letter of wishes into your will.
- Talk to a family member about what your wishes would be.
- If organising a pre-paid or direct funeral, speak to the funeral organiser about your service wishes.
- Discuss all your wishes with a celebrant who can write it all out on your behalf.
As a funeral celebrant, I offer a funeral planning service to help you shape the farewell that truly reflects your life, wishes, values, and personality.
What This Service Includes:
✔ A face to face chat – We’ll talk about your thoughts, preferences, and the kind of atmosphere you’d like your farewell to have.
✔ Help and advice with the service content – Music, readings, eulogies, and any special touches that reflect your life.
✔ Religious, spiritual, or non-religious elements – Whatever fits your beliefs and preferences.
✔ A well-crafted written funeral service – All of your wishes documented so they can be kept with your will or shared with family.
Why Plan Ahead?
- Ensures your wishes are honoured.
- Helps reduce stress for loved ones during a difficult time.
- Allows for a unique and personal farewell just as you would want it.
- Gives you peace of mind knowing it’s all taken care of.
Whether you want something traditional, alternative, light-hearted, or deeply reflective, I’ll help craft a service that tells your story, your way. I am skilled in crafting memories that will beautifully capture your life’s journey. I will ensure that the whole service is tailored from beginning to end by talking through the options with you and creating it exactly how you would want it to be. No-one knows when they are going to leave this mortal world therefore getting your ideas down at any age is important.
Get in touch to chat about your funeral, your wishes and what you want at you service in a relaxed and supportive way.
For more information call Sarah on 07806565070 or email sarah@sarahlanecelebrant.co.uk
