Personalise the Service
Create a meaningful tribute that reflects the individual's unique life.
1. What To Do When Somebody Dies2. Register the Death3. Understand Wills, Funeral Wishes4. Notify Government5. Help with Pay6. Burial or Cremation?7. Funeral Service and Venue8. Personalise the Service9. On the Day10. After the funeral
A. Choosing a Coffin, Casket, or Shroud
This is a key personal choice.
- Traditional: Solid wood or veneer coffins.
- Eco-friendly: Wicker, bamboo, seagrass, cardboard, and woollen shrouds.
- Personalised: Painted coffins or wrapped designs that reflect a person's personality, hobbies, teams or passions.
B. Arranging Funeral Transport
The procession can be tailored to the person and family preferences.
- Traditional options include a hearse with limousines.
- Alternatives include horse-drawn carriage, motorcycle hearse, VW campervan hearse, Land Rover Defender hearse, or vintage vehicles.
C. Planning the Service Content (Music, Readings, and Eulogy)
- Music: Live or recorded, including traditional hymns and modern songs.
- Readings: Family members or friends can read poems, prayers, scriptures or personal tributes.
- Eulogy: The story of the person's life, delivered by the officiant, family member, or friend.
D. Creating the Order of Service
The printed order of service acts as both a running guide and a keepsake for those attending and those unable to attend.
- Photo(s) of the person
- The running order (entrance, readings, eulogy, committal, closing music).
- Lyrics or poems for guest participation.
However, booklets can be personalised.
E. Flowers and Alternatives
- Floral tributes are common and can be traditional or bespoke.
- Charity donations can be requested instead of flowers.
- Memory tables, books, and personal item displays can be included.
F. Other Personal Touches
- Dress code themes or favourite colours.
- Choosing who carries the coffin, including family and friends.