The initial meeting or arrangement conference with the funeral director usually takes place on the day of or the day after the death occurs. When death occurs, families must make a number of decisions in a very short period of time. This can be particularly stressful for families who experience an unexpected death. Choosing the funeral home, deciding on the type of service, deciding where the burial will be, contacting everyone, and getting family back in town for the service are just some of the issues families must address.
What will take place during the arrangement conference?
When you arrive at the funeral home, you will be greeted by one of our family service advisers who will take you to the arrangement area, offer you something to drink, and visit with you about the services they provide. You will be given a copy of our service guide which contains the General Price List, Casket Price List, and Outer Burial Container Price List. This guide lists all of the service options, service items, merchandise, and their costs as well as options for payment. The funeral director will take you through the entire process of planning a funeral or remembrance service that is meaningful and reflects the life of your loved one. You will be asked to give vital statistic information for the death certificate as well as biographical information for the obituary. If you choose to write the obituary yourself, please email a copy to your funeral director so it can be submitted it to the newspaper and placed on the funeral home website.
Here are a few of the questions that will need to be addressed: What type of services will you want to have for your loved one? Will the services be at the funeral home or at a church? Do you want to have the service in a formal or more casual setting? Do you want the pastor of your church to officiate the service or a family friend? Will the body be present for the service or not? Will you want the services viewed online? Would you like a DVD Life Tribute played at the visitation or service? What music, scripture readings, poems, etc. will be shared? Will a family member or friend give a eulogy?
We have prepared a guide to help you through the process. This guide can be found by clicking HERE. By spending some time reviewing these documents and asking questions, you and your family will be better prepared to arrange a meaningful tribute to your loved one.
