A traditional funeral service can be split into three parts.
Initially, the family of the deceased will gather at the home of their loved one, or another property of their choosing, to await cortege. After being transported to the venue, the service will take place and be followed by a committal. The committal will either be held at the graveside or within a crematorium. After the funeral, relations of the deceased may also choose to hold a reception to remember and celebrate their loved one.
To organise a traditional service locally, it is important to find the best funeral director for you, considering venue location, what is involved in the ceremony, dress-code, transportation and whether or not there will be a wake.
Choosing a venue and transportation
Most traditional funerals will be held at the local church, or perhaps somewhere with sentimental value for the deceased.
Funeral directors through whom you have arranged the funeral will usually help you in organising transportation to and from the church.
Organising the ceremony
To ensure the ceremony runs smoothly, it is best to liaise with your funeral director as well as the priest or vicar who is guiding the service. They will answer any questions you may have about the ceremony, offering you advice and suggestions.
If you or your family were fortunate to have been able to speak to your loved one about their funeral wishes, you may already have plans as to what should be included.
Post-ceremony gathering
There are not set rules for arranging a wake, and views on a wake differ depending on the person, the region and the denomination of the deceased.
Some opt not to have a gathering after the ceremony, whilst others may welcome mourners into their home for refreshments and to share memories about the deceased.
There is also the option to hire a venue for the wake, perhaps a local pub your loved one visited regularly, a village hall or their favourite restaurant.
For more information on how to arrange a traditional service, please click here.