How to support someone through grief at Christmas
Christmas is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, but it may not feel like that for those who are navigating the grieving process. Christmas has a way of making years-old grief feel fresh and raw again, serving as a painful reminder of the people who are no longer with us. Understanding how to support someone through grief at Christmas time can be a challenge, but knowing what to say and do can make all the difference to how they feel. If your loved one is struggling with their grief this festive season, follow our guidance below on how to help support them through this difficult time.
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How to dress a loved one for their funeral
When preparing for a loved one’s final goodbye, there are many details to think about, including what clothes they are laid to rest in. Many people ask us, “How do funeral directors dress a body?” and “Do I need to choose my loved one’s funeral clothes?” Choosing funeral clothing is often an unexpected task, and is a deeply personal part of arranging a funeral. Whether you’re dressing a family member to visit them in the chapel of rest, or wish to ensure they are suitably dressed for their cremation, selecting the right clothing can help you honour their memory with dignity and respect. Below, we offer some practical advice on how to dress the departed for their funeral.
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5 meaningful poems for a funeral service
Finding the right words to honour the legacy of your loved one at their funeral can be a daunting task. Poetry has a unique way of capturing emotions and providing comfort to those in attendance. In this blog, we share five meaningful poems for a funeral service that can help express love, loss, and remembrance. These poems have been carefully selected to bring peace to friends and family members, regardless of which type of funeral service you choose.
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Where can I scatter ashes in the UK?
Choosing a final resting place for your loved one's ashes is an incredibly personal decision. For many, it provides an opportunity to honour the life of your cherished friend or family member in a thoughtful and meaningful way. The first question many people ask is: Where can I scatter ashes in the UK? While there are many options available for scattering ashes, understanding where it is allowed and how to approach it in a respectful manner can be challenging. In this blog, we explore some of the most heartfelt and significant places to scatter ashes in the UK, as well as sharing some expert guidance to help you make the right choice.
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Music ideas for non religious funerals
Planning a non religious funeral can be challenging, and sometimes it may seem like there are endless factors to consider. Whether you’re opting for a burial or cremation, your choice of music is a key component in evoking a respectful and reflective tone. Funeral songs have an individual meaning to every person, helping to bring comfort and peace to mourners in attendance. Whether you’re looking for traditional classical pieces that reflect the sombre nature of such an occasion, or you wish to comfort your attendees with some contemporary uplifting songs, we’ve compiled a list of music ideas for non religious funerals to help you create a meaningful farewell.
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How to order flowers for a funeral?
Here at Alexander Burn, we understand that arranging a funeral can be an overwhelming process, especially when grieving the loss of a loved one. Funeral flowers are a beautiful gesture that allow you to say your final goodbyes with dignity and respect. If you’ve never ordered flowers for a funeral before, or need some assistance on making the right choices, follow our handy guide below to help you navigate the funeral flower ordering process with precision and care.
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What to write in a sympathy card
Deciding what to write in a sympathy card can be a challenging and emotional experience. Finding the right words that will effectively comfort somebody who is mourning is no easy task. As human beings, we have a tendency to overthink every single word, and often wonder if the words we say (or write) will have any impact at all. There is no set rule book to follow when sending sympathy cards, and it’s important to remember that the most meaningful words of sympathy always come directly from the heart.
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What is an unattended funeral?
Is it possible to have a funeral without a service? Yes – unattended funerals are held without a formal service or mourners. These types of funerals have become increasingly popular in the wake of COVID-19. They offer a convenient, affordable alternative to traditional funerals and allow for a more dignified, fuss-free final farewell. But what exactly is an unattended funeral, and why might it be the right choice for you or your loved one? This guide explores all aspects of unattended funerals, from their benefits to practical considerations.
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