11 Things to Tackle Now for the Funeral You Actually Want
Taking time to plan your own funeral can ease the burden on your loved ones. It also ensures your wishes are honored when the time comes.
This guide will help you consider the key details to organize in advance. Each step lets you shape a service that truly reflects your life.
Choose a preferred burial or cremation method
Decide if you want to be buried or cremated. This choice shapes many other details, like the location of your remains and the type of service.
If you choose burial, think about the cemetery and plot. You might prefer a traditional grave or a natural burial.
If cremation fits you better, consider what you want done with the ashes. You could keep them, scatter them, or place them in a memorial.
Share your preference with family or write it down to avoid confusion. This makes things easier for your loved ones.
Write a detailed obituary
Write a clear and honest obituary that highlights important parts of your life. Include your full name, birthdate, and place of residence.
Mention close family members and any significant relationships. Share your career, hobbies, or causes that mattered to you.
Try to keep it warm and personal. This helps your obituary reflect who you are for friends and family.
Select your favorite music playlist for the service
Choose music for your funeral that feels right for you. Think about songs that bring comfort or reflect your personality.
You might want to include a mix of genres or stick to a few meaningful tracks. Consider songs that are familiar to your loved ones or ones that carry special memories.
Creating a playlist ahead of time gives your family clear guidance. It ensures the music truly represents what you want to share.
Prepare a list of guests to invite
Think about the people you want to be there to celebrate your life. Close family and friends usually come first.
Consider coworkers, neighbors, or anyone who played a meaningful role in your life. It’s okay to include people you haven’t seen in a while.
Writing this list helps your loved ones know who to contact. It also ensures you don’t forget anyone important to you.
Draft a personal eulogy or message
Writing your own eulogy allows you to share the words you want others to hear about your life. It can be a simple message or a heartfelt reflection.
Think about the values and memories you want highlighted. Your message can include thanks, lessons learned, or hopes for those you leave behind.
Keep it clear and honest. It’s your chance to guide how people remember you.
Decide on floral arrangements or donations
Think about whether you want flowers at your funeral. If you do, choose specific types or colors you like.
Alternatively, you might prefer donations to a charity instead of flowers. Decide which cause matters most to you.
You can suggest a mix of flowers and donations if you wish. This personal touch provides comfort and meaning to those attending.
Organize your will and legal documents
Have your will clearly written and up to date. It guides how your assets and belongings will be handled.
Keep important legal documents, such as power of attorney and healthcare directives, in a safe and accessible place. Share their location with someone you trust.
Review these documents regularly to keep them current with your wishes. This helps avoid confusion or disputes.
Pick meaningful readings or poems
Choose readings or poems that reflect your values and personality. These help set the tone and can offer comfort to those attending.
You might want to select something spiritual, humorous, or simply a favorite passage. It’s okay to mix different styles if that feels right.
Make a list and share it with a trusted person who can read them. This way, your wishes are clear.
Choose your funeral attire
Think about the outfit you want to be remembered in. It could be something simple, like a favorite shirt, or more formal, like a suit or dress.
Consider the colors and style that reflect your personality. You might want to keep it traditional or choose something personal.
Include any accessories or special items you’d like to be buried or cremated with. This helps your loved ones honor your unique style.
Plan a reception or gathering after the service
You might want to organize a reception or gathering after your funeral service. This gives friends and family a chance to share memories and support each other.
Consider the location, whether it’s a community center, a family home, or a favorite restaurant. Think about the food and drinks you’d like available, keeping people’s dietary needs in mind.
Decide on the tone—casual or formal—depending on what feels right to you. Planning this ahead can make things easier for your loved ones.
Design memorial keepsakes like photo books
Photo books can capture your life story through images and memories. These keepsakes offer loved ones a personal way to remember you.
Select photos that highlight meaningful moments and relationships. Add captions or notes to share the significance of each memory.
You might also consider framed prints or small albums. Preparing these items ahead of time ensures they reflect your wishes.
