Funeral planning is the last thing that most of us would ever like to think about doing but befalls many of us when we least expect it. With this in mind, Laura Richardson takes you through some of the key points that are to be accounted for when planning a funeral in Braintree or anywhere else throughout Essex to give you some insight into some of the things that you should consider . . .

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Planning your own funeral in Braintree or anywhere else for that matter can be a daunting task! You wish to plan the entire funeral, or perhaps you would simply like to specify a certain piece of music, reading or a charity to donate to. Even if you do not initially wish to plan for your funeral in great detail, it could also be the case that once you start planning, you find that there are actually several aspects of your funeral that you would like to plan personally. Andrew Douglas Wills and Legal Services have put together a list of things to consider when making your plans.

  1. Burial or Cremation. Most people have a strong view as to whether they wish to be buried or cremated, however this may not be common knowledge to your family.
  2. Private or public service. There are also several alternative options, including a private burial or cremation, followed by a memorial service open to wider friends and family.
  3. Depending upon your choice of location for your service, there will be choices as to the music for your service. This can include music whilst your friends and family arrive, hymns or songs during the service, as well as music to end the service. You could also choose a certain piece of music or a song to be played for a moment of reflection.
  4. You may have some readings that reflect your feelings regarding death and life, or have special significance to you. You may also wish to choose who would read these, although it is a good idea to discuss this with your chosen reader.
  5. You may wish to discuss the contents of your eulogy, particularly if there are significant events or achievements in your life that you wish to have remembered. You may also like to specify the tone of your eulogy, will it be a sombre reflection, or perhaps include some anecdotes to bring a smile to your loved ones?
  6. Personal touches. Do you have a special photograph that you would like displayed during the service? Perhaps some special items to represent you, this could often be items of military uniform if you have served in any of HM Forces or similar. Is there a specific colour that you wish for people to wear to your funeral?
  7. Flowers or charitable donations. More frequently charitable donations are requested in lieu of flowers for a funeral. Alternatively you may wish to allow flowers either from all attendees or limit this to flowers from close family only.

Whatever you decide, it is important to ensure that your funeral wishes are recorded within your Will to give you the peace of mind that your plans will be adhered to. Andrew Douglas Wills and Legal Services also offer a variety of prepayment plans to alleviate your loved ones from the financial obligations of your funeral.

If you would like any further information, please contact us at Andrew Douglas Wills and Legal Services today via www.andrewdouglaswills.co.uk to discuss your options for your funeral in Braintree or anywhere else throughout Essex.

If you would like to keep up with our latest posts and advice about estate planning through the regular advice that we provide to our clients in this regard, then please also feel free to –

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