MAKING THINGS SPECIAL
Taking into account your loved one's personality and passions, we can arrange a unique commemoration and celebration of their life together. The loss of a loved one is always difficult. However, we will do our best to advise you on available options. By considering the following options, this process can be more straightforward for you and your family.
Sentimental Items:
Many bereaved families take great comfort in placing personal items such as photographs, letters, and soft toys in the Coffin with their loved ones. We place no restrictions on what may be placed in a Coffin or the Chapel of Rest whilst your loved one is in our care. However, there are rules set by Crematoriums and items made of metal or glass may be restricted. Where appropriate, we will advise what can stay and what will need to be removed. You can even have a Memory Board placed in the Chapel, with lots of photos of the deceased, representing a life of memories. You can also take this to the funeral and even the gathering after the service.
Coffin or Casket:
We supply a wide range of Coffins and Caskets, from the most simple to the truly elaborate. We appreciate that choosing a Coffin may be a painful and upsetting decision for some people. However, we believe it would be inappropriate for us to decide for you. We will ALWAYS show you the lowest-priced option first; then, we will provide you with our brochure to make your selection if you wish to extend upon this. Our coffins range from the traditional style in both veneer and hardwoods. We also have a range of Cardboard coffins with various printed designs. In addition, Willow, Wicker, and Bamboo are now freely available and come in different styles and designs. Alternatively, why not opt for a plain, simple, white coffin and decorate it yourself? This can be a very personal and fitting family tribute to someone much loved.
Music:
Many people ask for specific pieces of music during the service. The theme chosen can be anything from traditional funeral music to favourite pop songs. There is no 'norm' to music; tell us what you want, and we'll make it happen.
Carrying and transporting the Coffin:
We will always supply bearers to carry the Coffin. Alternatively, you may wish to choose your bearers. We encourage family participation in this aspect of the funeral. Do not worry; we will always ensure that your private Bearers receive some instruction before the actual service occurs. Depending on your preference, the vehicle could be a regular hearse, horse-drawn carriage, or motorcycle hearse. When arranging this detail, please let us know your thoughts.
Clothing:
What your loved one wears on the day of the funeral is entirely up to you. We can provide robes if you wish, but we find that whoever is organising the funeral often likes their loved one to wear something special or sentimental. You may want your loved one to wear something formal, items of clothing they are comfortable in, or even their favourite football team strip. We are happy to dress your loved one in whatever outfit is chosen, whatever decision.
Eulogy / Tribute:
A friend or relative may wish to say a few words during the service. This speech or collection of thoughts is called a Eulogy or tribute. You can prepare this or choose a favourite poem or reading material. Letters, poetry, and other contributions can also be used to give the eulogy a personal and meaningful aspect. Please ask to see our advice leaflet for more information. Alternatively, give our staff enough information and time; we will even help prepare the eulogy for you should you find it difficult to put the words together.
Obituary Notices:
The Obituary notice is an opportunity to publicly announce the death of your loved one and the official funeral details and pay tribute to them by including a few chosen words that you feel are appropriate. It is also an opportunity to display details, such as where people can send donations or flowers. We will be happy to create and arrange the Obituary notices if you wish us to do so. We can also collate all the obituary notices on your behalf and illustrate them in one album.
Photographs:
We can extend several photographic services to help you provide a more lasting vision of the service day. We can digitally photograph the floral tributes and prepare them in an album and pictures of your loved one. You may wish to have the place of service photographed, the Hearse, Coffin, and appropriate images. These can be placed in a booklet, or you might want to provide an album of your choice. We can also put all the photos on a CD or create a DVD presentation if you wish.
Flowers:
We have a qualified Florist who is experienced in all aspects of floristry. We have a detailed brochure for you to make your tribute selections. Alternatively, our Florist is very willing to make a home visit to talk in detail about what you may require. Whatever you decide, you can be assured of high-quality, beautiful, fresh flowers at a competitive price. In addition to flowers, we can offer a wide range of helium foil and latex balloons. Providing a balloon release as an integral part of the funeral service is becoming prevalent.
ANYTHING ELSE?
This is just a very brief indication of what we can provide. However, whatever your requirements, we WILL be able to help.