Expert Article - Funeral Services

Community Expert: Funeral Services Nanette Tanner

Things to Know Before You Go!

There are two absolute guarantees in life - death and taxes. Fortunately, there are many things we can do to plan for them. Taking just a few steps before you (or a loved one) passes on can save you not only money, but huge headaches, stress, and anxiety. Here are some simple things you can pick out and arrange long before it’s time: 1 - Casket selection: Wooden or metal?

Metal materials cost more but are more durable and longer-lasting. Possible styles are copper, bronze, stainless steel, 20 gauge, 18 gauge, sealed, and non-sealed

Wooden caskets are cheaper but don’t seal. They are, however, highly customizable with different types and tones of wood, despite the fact that they’re not as durable.

BYOC - Some funeral homes won’t offer the same packages if you bring in a casket that you purchased somewhere else, but some funeral homes are easy going about it. Be sure to check with the funeral home to see about this option.

DIY - Making your own casket is doable, but can also be a big headache. However, if it’s your forte (or of someone you know), it could save you a lot of money! Dimensions have to be right for the body as well as for the burial vault (90% of cemeteries in Utah require a vault). 2 - Plot selection: Call the city offices and ask them to direct you for selecting/purchasing a cemetery plot, typically you’ll pay an opening and closing fee. 3 - Headstone selection: Some funeral homes offer this so be sure to ask, otherwise look up monument companies for choices; you have varying options in the color of stone, the design (whether an uprightstanding or flat stone), and the time it takes to create the design. 4 - Flower selection: It is pretty standard to be able to order all of these directly through the funeral home you are using which helps streamline the process; different options to consider include the casket flower spray, standing sprays for funeral & graveside services, and vases.

5 - Programs: These have evolved quite a bit lately and have become a very personalized part of the funeral service for many people. These include whatever is going to happen at the service, who’s officiating, who’s speaking, the pallbearers, family members, and perhaps most importantly - the photos you want to appear in the program. You can arrange the program creation and printing through your funeral home. 6 - Budget: Some funeral homes specialize in being budget-friendly, while others specialize in a more ornate experience. Be sure to know what you want and call around to find the right fit for you!

By calling a funeral home and asking for help to get some things picked out well before your time is here, you can make a big, positive impact on the experience for your loved ones for when you’re no longer with them!