Funeral Planning Checklist
As the final chapter of life approaches, it is a time filled with emotions, reflections and decisions. Planning a funeral or memorial service can seem overwhelming, especially in the midst of grief and loss. At Flora Nordica, we understand the importance of honoring a loved one with a beautiful farewell. With this guide/checklist, we aim to answer some of the most common questions regarding funeral planning and how flowers can play a crucial role in this celebration.
Decision about Funeral or Interment
Decide whether it will be a funeral (with a casket) or a cremation (followed by cremation).
Choosing a Funeral Director
Find a funeral director who can help with the practical details and paperwork. Remember that there are many elements that you can handle yourself, without the funeral director, if you wish. A piece of advice: you will often get much more for your money if you order flowers for the funeral directly from the florist, as many funeral directors take up to 30% of the budget that does not go to flowers.
Death certificate
Get a death certificate from the doctor or hospital.
Submit the death certificate to the municipality.
Location Selection
Decide where the ceremony will be held (church, crematorium, other location).
Reserve a time for the ceremony.
Choosing a Grave Site
Should the deceased be buried in an existing family grave or a new one?
Funeral clothes for the deceased
Select clothing and any personal items.
Flowers
Order flowers and wreaths for the funeral/interment.
See here what flower options you have for a funeral / memorial service. You can also read " How to choose flowers for a funeral " and " What flowers do you give for a funeral? "
Music and Hymns
Choose hymns, songs and any background music for the ceremony.
Priest or Master of Ceremonies
Book a priest or other ceremony leader.
Arrange a meeting to plan the course of the ceremony.
Participants to Carry the Casket
Choose family members, friends or professional carriers.
Obituary
Write and submit an obituary to local newspapers or online announcements.
Program for the Funeral
Design and print the program for the funeral ceremony.
Funeral procession
Plan the route for the funeral procession, if applicable.
Subsequent Gathering (Grave Beer)
Choose a location, order food and drinks.
Thank you card
Consider sending thank you cards to those who attend the funeral or send flowers/condolences.
Wills and Financial Affairs
Find and review any wills.
Contact the bank and other relevant institutions to inform them of the death.
Termination of Services
Cancel subscriptions, memberships, insurance, etc. that are no longer relevant.
Notification to Family and Friends
Inform immediate family, friends and acquaintances about the death and funeral details.
Personal Wishes
Consider any specific wishes from the deceased regarding the ceremony.
Memorials or Donations
Consider whether to set up a memorial fund or whether donations should be made to a specific charity in the deceased's name.
Remember that while there are many things to consider when planning a funeral, the most important thing is to honor the wishes of the deceased and give the bereaved an opportunity to say goodbye in a meaningful way. It may also be a good idea to seek support from family, friends, or professionals if the process feels overwhelming.