How often do we see adverts for a “Fuss Free Cremation” or “Low-cost funerals” and wonder “How does that work”?
You can be forgiven for thinking that this means that the opportunity to celebrate a loved one’s life is taken away or that “low cost” means no ceremony or celebration. Well, that is simply not the case.
Many are looking to these options, as their personal preference isn’t for a religious service, or a desire to involve their family and friends in spending time and money, on an event over which they have little control or interest!
Low-Cost or “Fuss free” doesn’t mean no celebration of a loved one’s life or that personal choices and wishes can’t be included in any plans.
Celebrants often deliver services at Scarborough Woodlands or East Riding Crematorium and are appointed directly from local Funeral Directors. This is often the case where families don’t want a religious leader to deliver the service. However, Celebrants can include as many religious elements to a service as families want. For example, the Lord’s Prayer can be read as can Readings from the Bible or other texts.
Celebrants offer a personal and bespoke service to each and every family, spending time with them so the fine details of the deceased’s life is shared and might be included in some way, either through the Readings and Poems chosen or through family and friends who might also contribute to the service. Personal touches are often included such as the use of favourite colours, flowers, photos of much-loved locations or pastimes.
In the past I have delivered services for those whose interests have included Si-Fi films, their beloved pet dog, a favourite band or group and a love of travel. A service can include song lyrics read as a poem or a photographic tribute put to Meatloaf, the sky really is the limit!
It’s also worth noting that there is no longer the demand that a service takes place first, with everyone then moving onto a Wake.
Anyone can contact a Celebrant directly, and they would work closely with any Funeral Director to ensure the personal preferences of the family are reflected in the arrangements. Services can take place in a much-loved garden for example, a favourite bar or a woodland setting. In fact, a celebration of life can take place in any setting (with the agreement of the owner) followed by a small and intimate cremation at another time if the family wish.
Thinking about the end of life, isn’t a subject that many relish. However, it’s one of those events which comes to all of us, hopefully later rather than sooner! If you would like to think about planning your funeral now, make contact with your local Celebrant to make a Living Funeral Plan for when it’s needed. Through this, you can be sure that the music, flowers, theme, and tone of the service, provides the memorable celebration you seek and deserve.