Losing a loved one is difficult, but having the right funeral director by your side can make the process much more comfortable. Not only will the funeral director help you, but they’ll also help your family to get through this tough period.
With the right service by your side, they will collect your loved one, prepare them for the funeral, sort out all the paperwork, help with the coffin, organize the service, and provide the support you need. In many cases, they will even communicate with third-party services to arrange flowers, music, catering, the order of service sheets, and more.
We’ve got some advice for choosing the right funeral director below!
Do Some Research
We know this is the last thing you want to be doing at this time. However, a little bit of research will go a long way. Rather than just choosing the first name you see, visit a handful of websites and make a shortlist of the ones that take your liking. Often, it can be a feeling or just that the website says all the right things.
Compare Prices & Read Reviews
In recent years, we’ve seen many people make the same mistake; they compare prices thinking that every single package is the same. In reality, prices differ so significantly because each package includes different levels of assistance. Check what quotes do and don’t cover, how the pricing system works, and don’t be afraid to communicate with the service director.
At the same time, we highly recommend reading online reviews and testimonials. Of course, the reviews on the company’s website will be cherrypicked. However, you’ll find more honest and accurate reviews on Facebook and Google. If possible, speak to people who have used the service.
Get Recommendations From Friends & Family
Unfortunately, death is just a fact of life, and every individual on the planet shares the burden of losing a loved one. With this in mind, speak with people you know to see if they have recommendations. Don’t just blindly follow these suggestions but write them down and put the services through your research process.
Consider Location
Often, we see people choosing a funeral home some distance away from their home. In our experience, it’s easier to choose a funeral director within a few miles. As time goes on, you’ll need to visit a couple of times, and they may even visit your home to talk about arrangements. Most funeral directors will stick to a 15-mile radius or so, but others offer a more comprehensive service, so be aware.
Check The Service List
Although funeral directors mostly do the same thing, the services they offer can vary widely. When talking with different companies, check that they can do the type of funeral you require. In recent times, some services have gained a reputation for eco-friendly burials. If you have specific requests, work with a company that will cater to these needs.
Assess Qualifications
These days, there are numerous bodies that offer qualifications and training to funeral directors. Before working with a funeral director, ask to see their qualifications (and remember to look at the dates!).
Have Conversations
In truth, one of the best things you can do when choosing a funeral director is to have conversations with them. Don’t forget, one of the funeral directors will be at the funeral, and this is something you will remember for a long time. Feel comfortable with the individual and select somebody who respects your wishes, and isn’t just trying to get as much money from you as possible.
