When arranging a traditional funeral service you will need to consider the location, venue, the content of the ceremony itself, dress code, transport and any post-ceremony gathering that may be taking place. You should also take your time and look around for the best funeral director possible. You can do this using our price comparison service.
Despite greater choice in the funeral industry, many people still appreciate the aesthetic, practice and ritual of a traditional funeral service. A professional funeral director will be able to help you with many of the decisions that need to be made and should offer fantastic organisational and emotional support throughout the entire process.
What is a traditional funeral service?
A traditional funeral service is split into three parts. The family of the deceased will gather at the deceased’s home to await the cortege. A service is then held in the church, followed by committal, either at the graveside or in a crematorium.
Many people may choose to gather at another property or to meet the cortege where the service is being held. Relations of the deceased may also hold a reception after the funeral as a means of remembering the individual.
How to choose a venue for a traditional funeral service
Most traditional funeral services are held at a local church, with the service conducted by a priest or vicar, depending on your denomination. People often opt for a location that meant something to the deceased as a way of remembering their life and connection with a particular area.
For instance, the deceased may have visited a particular church regularly, had a good relationship with their local clergyman or may simply have liked to visit the building occasionally.
How to organise the ceremony for a traditional funeral service
When arranging a traditional funeral service it’s best to speak to the funeral director, as well as the priest or vicar who will arrange or guide the ceremony. They’ll be able to explain proceedings and can offer advice and suggestions for hymns, prayers and any religious readings you may want to include.
If you were fortunate enough to speak to the deceased about their funeral wishes, you may already have ideas about what should be included.
How to arrange transport for a traditional funeral service
In most cases, the funeral directors through whom you arranged the funeral will assist you in organising transport to and from the church. While a hearse and transport for close family may sometimes be considered traditional, it is by no means necessary or compulsory.
How to arrange a traditional wake
There is no set tradition for arranging a wake and what occurs largely depends on the deceased’s wishes and the budget for the funeral. It is worth noting that views on a wake vary from person to person, from region to region and also between denominations.
While some people prefer to hold no additional gathering after the funeral, others will welcome mourners into their homes for refreshments and to share memories. Some families decide to hire a venue, such as a pub, village hall or restaurant, for guests to meet, eat and drink after the funeral.
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