Contemplating funeral planning for a family member or friend may be a difficult task, but it serves as a profound way to ensure that their final wishes are respected. And if their wishes weren’t shared, then this guide will help you create a service that reflects your loved one in the way that’s right for them.  

In this guide we cover:

• Getting started with help from family and friends 

• Key decisions to make about the send-off 

• Know What The Budget Is, Adapt the Costs 

• Find the right Funeral Director 

Getting Started 

Involve close friends and family in the planning! They can provide valuable support and help craft a farewell that truly captures the essence of the loved one’s life.  

Key Decisions  

If you are able to support your loved one to record their wishes ahead of time, this will provide you with valuable information, you can store your loved one's wishes for free on The Farewell Guide.

If you are working out ideas for a loved ones’ funeral with friends and family input, key details to consider are 

• Burial or cremation?  Or include more specific ideas such as eco burial, direct cremation or burial at sea  

• Any religious or non-religious preferences you think they would have had

• Is there a funeral location they would have really wanted? 

• Did they have particular songs, poems or photos they would have wanted to share in their end-of-life service? 

• Would a particular flower have been a favourite choice or perhaps they would have wanted donations to charity 

While making the plan, you could store the information securely on the free The Farewell Guide planner, which can easily be shared with those who will be coordinating the funeral arrangements with you.  

What’s The Budget and What Are The Costs? 

Try to understand what budget is available before you commit to any elements of the funeral, as many of the decisions listed above have different cost implications. It may be that your loved one has already made financial provisions for their funeral. 

Costs can vary considerably depending on what is chosen, for example, the decision between burial and cremation is a significant one. Burials are often associated with higher costs, while cremation offers a more affordable alternative. Some may opt for a direct cremation without a memorial service, or other alternatives such as burial at sea. 

Flowers can be an expense that is easily saved with eco-friendly alternatives such as planting a tree or asking for donations to a relevant charity.  

The average cost of a UK funeral in 2023 was approximately £4000, which includes the fees for the funeral director, doctor, officiate, and the coffin.  

Planning the service while being mindful of costs helps alleviate any potential financial burden, at what can be a stressful, emotional time.  

Choose a Funeral Director To Suits Your Needs  

Funeral directors play a crucial role in providing care for the departed, overseeing the funeral proceedings, and managing various details. Their guidance and support can be invaluable during this emotional time. You can find and compare trusted funeral directors through The Farewell Guide for free. 

The Farewell Guide can guide you through the organisation process, by using the planner as well as many supportive guides that are available. 

Once you have decided how you wish to remember your loved one, The Farewell Guide's funeral director comparison tool can be used to compare services and prices, to ensure you find the best funeral director for your loved one and help avoid overspending. 

Related links 

A guide to and support when arranging a funeral