Funeral Arrangements Checklist
Planning a funeral can be an emotional task, and might feel overwhelming without guidance and support. At Fiesta Farewell, we specialise in making the funeral planning process as seamless as possible. From our handy checklists to our easy-to-follow guides, as well as our Directory of Trusted Suppliers.
Having a structured checklist to hand can help ensure that important funeral planning details are completed, and the wishes of your loved one are honoured. Below is a step-by-step guide to help throughout the funeral arranging process.
Please note that if your loved one had a ‘funeral wishlist’, please refer to it before planning, as it will help during the funeral arranging process.
1. Choose the type of funeral
- Burial or cremation: Decide on the method of disposition, as this will affect other arrangements.
- Traditional, religious, humanist, a ‘celebration of life’ or eco-friendly funeral: Determine whether the service will follow religious customs, a formal structure, or a more personal, informal style.
- Public or private ceremony: Consider whether to invite the wider community or keep it intimate.
2. Select a venue
- Crematorium
- Place of worship, for example, a church or temple
- Outdoor location or community hall
- Graveside only (for simple, direct services)
3. Engage with a Funeral Director or Funeral Planner
A funeral director can coordinate logistics, paperwork, and the service itself. They’ll also liaise with cemeteries, crematoria, and officiants, freeing loved ones to focus on personal touches.
4. Set the date and time
Coordinate with the venue, officiant, and key family members to choose a date that allows enough time for preparations while respecting religious or cultural time frames.
5. Choose and Efficient or Celebrant
This could be:
- A religious leader
- A professional funeral celebrant
A family member or friend willing to lead the service.
6. Plan the order of service
Decide on the flow of the ceremony, which may include:
- Welcome or opening remarks
- Readings or poems
- Eulogies from family or friends
- Songs or hymns
- Closing words or prayers
Committal at the graveside or final farewell.
7. Choose readings and music
Select pieces that reflect the personality, beliefs, and values of your loved ones.
- Music can include live performance, recorded tracks, hymns, or instrumental pieces.
- Readings could be religious texts, poetry, literary excerpts, or personal writings.
8. Prepare eulogies and templates
There are no set rules when it comes to the number of eulogies and tributes at a funeral service. Try to encourage personal stories and meaningful memories throughout. Check out our Eulogy Template Guide.
9. Arrange transportation
- Hearse for the deceased
- Family vehicles or limousines for close relatives
- Shuttle service for guests, if needed.
10. Select floral arrangements and décor
Choose arrangements for the casket, venue, and reception area. Some families also display photographs, memorabilia, or symbolic items.
If your loved one had created a funeral wishlist, then now is the time to re-check it. Remember, not everyone wants floral arrangements at their funeral.
11. Prepare printed materials
- Order of service programs
- Photo tribute cards
- Guestbook for attendees to sign.
12. Coordinate with Pallbearers
If required, choose and confirm individuals to carry the casket, ensuring they understand their role and the order of procession.
13. Plan the committal or final farewell
If burial is chosen, decide on graveside elements such as readings, blessings, or flower placement. For cremation, consider a final moment of reflection before the casket or urn is taken.
Post-funeral considerations
- Arrange a reception or wake: Provide a space for family and friends to gather and share memories.
- Send thank-you notes: Acknowledge those who offered support, flowers, or donations.
- Admin: Settle the estate, cancel subscriptions, and update records.
Helping you plan a funeral
A funeral is not only a farewell but also a chance to celebrate a life. By following this checklist, families can navigate the process with more clarity and less stress, ensuring that arrangements are thoughtful, respectful, and true to the person being remembered.
For more advice and guidance around planning a funeral or what to do when somebody dies, Fiesta Farewell is here to help.
