Sometimes the death of a loved one takes us by surprise and at other times we are allowed to prepare for it. Whatever the situation might be, when someone we care about leaves us it is a time of sorrow and planning for a funeral in this fragile state can be exhausting no matter how much help you have on hand.

We have put together this guide to help you navigate the planning and execution of a funeral. If you think you need more than family and friends to help you in your task, speak to a funeral director at funeral services Brisbane who can work with your requirements and budget to put together a memorable funeral ceremony for your loved one.

The first place to start is the last will of the deceased. Did they leave any instructions? Or did they speak to someone about their wishes? If, however, you find that these instructions are not affordable to you and your family or not doable, start your planning with what you can do. If the deceased has a prepaid or pre-arranged funeral with a funeral parlour then get in touch with them as soon as possible to find out how you can proceed with the arrangements.

Discuss your thoughts and plans with the rest of the family and even friends of the deceased who may want to get involved and help. Being involved in the funeral arrangements can be a form of release for the grieving. For you, having help can make things less overwhelming.

The next step is to decide if you are going with a funeral director or not. If you choose to go with a funeral director, ask family and friends for recommendations and start calling for quotations. Arranging a funeral can be stressful on top of your grieving, for this reason, many choose to go with a funeral director.

The next big decision is whether to have an in-ground burial or cremation. Again, if no last wishes were left, discuss with the family how you should proceed. Speak with the funeral director about costs, and arrangements.

Arrange the funeral service per the wishes of the deceased.If no instructions were left, discuss with the family to put together a service that will please the deceased. Things to consider are the type of clothing to wear for the service – colourful, black or white. Types of songs and/or hymns, prayers to be played and recited. Decide on the type of funeral as well, burial at sea, religious ceremony or an alternative forest funeral etc.

Next, pick a venue and date for the funeral and put together the order of service which is the funeral programme schedule that’s printed and given to those attending and to those who can’t make it.

Finally, plan the post-serviceget-together. It is an opportunity for friends and family meet and to celebrate the life of the deceased. The venue can be your home or any other suitable venue.