funeral directors services Stotfold today: Remember it’s ok to feel sad. Allow yourself to grieve and understand that it’s a natural part of the healing process. Modify celebrations – Be prepared to modify or skip certain celebrations if they are too overwhelming. Choose the activities that feel right for you and how you feel. If your usual festive traditions are too painful, consider creating new ones that feel more manageable. This can help shift the focus and make the season more bearable. Remember that everyone grieves differently, and there’s no right or wrong way to navigate the festive season while dealing with grief. Take the time you need, be gentle with yourself, and prioritise your well-being. ‘Do’ Christmas your way this year. Find even more details at going green with eco friendly funerals.
Humanist celebrants are non-religious and focus on making the funeral service a positive reflection of the person who has died. Civil celebrants lead funerals with or without religious content, creating an occasion for mourning or a celebration of life according to the wishes of the deceased person (if known) and their loved ones. It’s important to choose a celebrant whom you feel comfortable talking with and who listens, understanding your questions and requirements. Ask for testimonials from previous clients, and look for mentions of listening, writing and presenting skills. How they managed the service and liaised with the family are also important. At Austin’s family funeral directors, we work with several funeral celebrants. If you would like their details, please let us know.
Almost half of funerals are now planned as a celebration of life (49% – Sunlife research). Perhaps in tune with a celebratory theme, 18% of those organising funerals encourage something unusual or different to be involved with the funeral. This includes bright-coloured clothing, light-hearted speeches and unusual music, for example. The most played funeral song during 2022 was “Abide With Me” – although when asked what song they would like to be played at their funeral, the most popular song was “Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum. Have you thought about what music you would like played at your funeral? It’s one of the easiest ways of adding a personal touch to your service. Let your loved ones know your choice of songs – and ask them about theirs. This is a more light-hearted way of starting a discussion about loved ones’ funeral wishes – or telling someone what you would like for your own funeral. It’s never too early to make plans, offering peace of mind to you and your loved ones. If you would like to discuss funeral arrangements and options, please talk to the friendly team at Austin’s family funeral directors.
As well as being simpler and quicker, direct cremations emphasise celebrating the deceased person’s life rather than a traditional funeral service. 52% of people want to express their life through their ashes’ final resting place via more informal and celebratory events. Trends for the future: The survey results show that a good send-off still matters, but how this looks and where it happens are already changing thanks to two key developments: A well-established trend towards celebrating the life that has been lived rather than mourning the death. A new opportunity to ‘uncouple’ the cremation from the ceremonial elements. Find more information on austins.co.uk.
Personal Anecdotes: Share personal stories or experiences that highlight the personality, values and interests of the deceased person. This can include funny or inspiring memories. Memorable Qualities: Talk about the special qualities that made the person unique. Reflect on their kindness, compassion, sense of humour, determination or any other virtues that stood out to others. Achievements and Contributions: Highlight the accomplishments and contributions the person made during their lifetime. These can include their professional achievements and personal milestones, for example, involving family, hobbies and career as relevant.
The family designed and built Harwood Park Crematorium and Memorial Gardens in 1997, to further serve the needs of the local community. The Austin Family is committed to the continued provision of a caring, sympathetic and sensitive service to the bereaved and their loved ones for many years to come. When someone dies it is quite usual for the family to contact a Funeral Director immediately. At Austin’s, we provide a 24-hour service to support families at this difficult time. We are able to advise on the actions required for the funeral arrangements to be made.