Losing a loved one is a tricky life event, and coping with loss is extremely difficult. Planning a funeral during this time can be challenging so it’s a good idea to seek help from an expert. They can help you organise a funeral while keeping in mind your wishes, the wishes of your loved one, your budget, and other requirements. Epsom funeral directors suggest four types of different funeral services. If you have a clear understanding of these services, you can make a more careful and informed decision. Let’s dive into the nuances of these different types of services and how they can serve different approaches to the funeral service.
4 types of funeral arrangements and how to decide accordingly:
Let’s take a walk through the different types of funeral systems and how you can decide on one over the others.
- The wake:
The wake is also known as viewing or visitation. It is a gathering of close friends and relatives who pay their final respects to your loved one. A wake is held prior to the former funeral service and often includes the presence of your loved one’s body. This creates a perfect occasion for guests to say their final goodbyes. The primary purpose of the wake is to provide a supportive environment in which grieving family members and loved ones can find solace and closure.
- The traditional funeral service:
This is a formal and arranged service honouring your loved one’s life, history and achievements. This service is usually observed at a funeral home, church or within another religious environment. It can include readings, prayers, recollections, eulogies and even music to pay tribute to your loved one. This type of funeral service is usually conducted through a grand passage of solemn rites and personal remarks. The main purpose of this type of funeral is to assist the mourners and begin the healing process.
- The memorial service:
A memorial service is like a traditional funeral with the difference that the body of your loved one may not necessarily be present. This type of service is usually scheduled for weeks or even months after they pass away. The purpose of the memorial service is exactly as the name suggests: to bring the people and loved ones around the ceremony of mourning. The tribute in a memorial service is more personal and meaningful.
- Graveside services:
A graveside service is usually conducted right at the burial place. This ritual can be performed alone or as a part of the extended funeral service. Its primary purpose is all about saying the final goodbyes before the departed one is interred. This can help the loved ones come together and heal collectively.
The choice of the funeral type ultimately depends on how you want to bid your loved one goodbye. You can either choose a solemn and private way or a more ceremonial way. It all depends on you and your loved one’s preference. Brunskill Family Funerals are the highest rated funeral directors in Epsom. Tell us what you wish, and we will help you organise a fitting way to say goodbye to your loved one.