Memorializing your loved one with a well-written obituary can be one of the most complicated, emotionally-fulfilling, and intimate steps you take as you prepare to lay them to rest. Obituaries can serve as a notice of the passing, a way to honor their life’s contributions in print, and a physical reminder of their memory later on. Read on to learn more about obituaries, who writes them, and costs you can expect if you choose to write an obituary for your loved one. What is An Obituary? An obituary is, in short, a written ode [...]

Choosing a funeral home is one of the hardest, most rewarding steps you’ll take in the arrangement process. While it can be difficult to do while grieving, the peace of mind that the right funeral home can bring to the situation is unmatched. Once chosen, your home will walk you through all of the legal and social steps associated with the process of putting your loved one to rest, supporting you as you navigate each process. Below, we’ve offered eight helpful steps to consider as you finalize your funeral home selection — helping you [...]

How much does a casket cost? It’s a question many people ask themselves as they plan for a funeral. You might be surprised to learn that this seemingly simple question leads to a variety of factors influencing the final price. Understanding the different types of caskets, costs, and alternative options empowers you to make informed choices that honor your loved one and your budget. The experts at Schoppenhorst, Underwood & Brooks have put together a helpful guide that details the average cost of caskets, as well as the different materials that can affect overall [...]

Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy. Additionally, deciding how to honor their memory can add an additional layer of complexity to an already difficult time — as each family has its own traditions, beliefs, and financial considerations that directly impact the final farewell. Understanding the range of options available for funeral services empowers families to make the correct, most informed decisions for their loved ones’ services. Our experts have put together a helpful guide detailing each of the nine options you should know and consider as you go through the decision-making [...]

Planning a funeral service is a deeply personal and emotional process. As such, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when faced with the tasks and process that come with addressing the loss of a loved one. However, knowing how to plan a funeral service can help ease some of the stress during this difficult time — empowering you to create a meaningful celebration of life that honors your loved one's memory. The first step to successfully planning a funeral begins with understanding your options throughout the process and the key steps required to allow your [...]

The loss of a loved one is often an emotionally overwhelming experience. Amidst the shock and grief, arranging a funeral can feel like an immense task. Meeting with a funeral director is a crucial step in planning the final farewell, and being prepared can help alleviate some of the stress. Here are some key steps and considerations to help you prepare for your first meeting with a funeral director. 1. Introductory Phone Call The first step is to call the funeral home to make an appointment. During this call, you will be asked two [...]

Thinking about the future — especially when it comes to our mortality — is never a pleasant thought. However, it is a necessary one. Understanding the range of costs associated with a burial plot is the first step to making arrangements that suit your unique needs. We’ve summarized everything you need to know about burial plot cost factors and plot types down below. What is A Burial Plot? A burial plot is a space in a cemetery designated for the burial of one’s remains. The term can define a range of burial spaces, including [...]