Five Qualities to Consider When Choosing a Funeral Home
Giving this important decision the consideration it deserves.
When it comes time to choose a funeral home, it can be challenging to know where to start. How do you know which funeral home is right for your loved one's funeral? Or perhaps you’re thinking about preplanning your own funeral - what should you look for in a funeral home?
Today, we're sharing the answers you're looking for in the form of five qualities to consider when selecting a funeral home. These considerations will ensure you make the best choice for your funeral planning needs.
(Are you curious about whether you should preplan your own funeral? We cover that topic in this post).
Reputation
One of the first and most important things to consider when choosing a funeral home is its reputation. How long have they been in business? What do people in your community say about them? A good funeral home will have a solid reputation that they've built over many years of service.
There are a few different ways to learn about a funeral home's reputation. Here are some places to begin:
- Talk to your friends, family, and neighbours. Ask if they've ever used the funeral home and if they would recommend them.
- Check online reviews. Look for reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook to start.
- Call the funeral home and ask about their experience level and what kind of reputation they have in the community.
- Book a complimentary consultation and visit the facility in person and talk to the staff. See if they are helpful, friendly, and professional.
Compassionate Staff
No one should sense coldness or indifference from the funeral home staff after losing a loved one. The team should be compassionate and understanding as you navigate this difficult time.
They should also be able to answer any questions you have, no matter how difficult they may be. Further, they should be available to provide support before, during, and after the funeral service, including offering resources for grief support.
(Learn more about the aftercare services we offer at Park Memorial here)
Transparency about costs and expectations
When planning a funeral, it's also important to know what the costs will be upfront—this isn't a time for surprises. A good funeral home will be transparent about its prices and its services and will provide this information over the phone. They will also ask you questions about your wishes so that they can provide you with the most accurate information and give you various things to think about that you may not have otherwise considered. They should also be clear about any expectations they may have for you and your family.
Willingness to create a personalized and meaningful service
Another one of the most important things to look for is a willingness to work with you to create a personalized, meaningful service, including everything from the music, readings and displays to the eulogy and funeral procession.
Will you require accommodations for faith-based and cultural practices? No two funeral homes are exactly alike, and the way that they can help you honour your loved one's faith-based and cultural beliefs won't be either—so be sure to include this in your list of considerations. Expertise in this area can be of great value.
(Learn more about the art of funeral personalization here)
Funeral home facility and services provided
Finally, you'll want to be sure the funeral home you choose offers the services you are looking for in a suitable location with clean, comfortable, well-kept facilities.
If you're looking for a facility that can accommodate a large service, has a crematorium on site, can create memorial tribute videos, or one that offers special services like catering a memorial lunch or allowing live music, be sure to ask about those options.
As you choose a funeral home, these factors will play a role in your decision-making process. When you've taken the time to consider all of these factors, you'll be in a far better position to select the right option for you and your loved ones.
If you are searching for a funeral home in or around Edmonton, we invite you to consider Park Memorial. In addition to our Edmonton location, we also have locations in Lamont, Mayerthorpe, Smoky Lake, and Vegreville.
Learn more about us or contact us when you're ready so we can help.
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