A Guide To Funeral
Planning
Planning a funeral while dealing with loss might be one of the toughest challenges you face in life. But you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to make sure it doesn’t feel like it’s just your burden.
Where to start when someone dies?
We all respond differently when we lose someone close to us. There’s no right or wrong way to feel, so be patient with yourself and those around you. When you’re ready, there are some things you’ll need to do.
Let your loved ones know.
Let your family and your loved one’s close friends know. You might ask a family member or close friend to help with this.
Reach out to us.
Our Funeral Specialists can explain what to do now. They will also organise a time for our caring and experienced team to collect your loved one. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Notifying
Professionals
If your loved one has died at home, contact the police services for assistance.If they've died in a hospital or nursing home, the staff should guide you through the process of what is required. Our experienced team should be contacted following this to transport your loved one to our storage facility.
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you,"
Isaiah 41:10
Steps in planning a funeral
Here’s how the Dennie's Team can help you plan a meaningful farewell.
Step (1)
Have a visit to our office and meet with one of our funeral planners.
Call us whenever you’re ready to begin planning the funeral. We’ll organise a time to meet in person and answer any questions you might have. Your loved one may have pre-planned their service with us. If so, we’ll have everything we need to begin the process.
Step (2)
Find a venue.
We can organise a funeral at just about any location – a place of worship, outdoor location or even your home. You might also choose to hold the service at our chapel, or at your loved one’s burial site. Your dedicated Funeral Planner will help you choose the option that’s right for you and take care of all the details from there.
Step (3)
Create the service.
Your loved one’s service should reflect their unique personality and honour their memory. We’ll work closely with you to create a bespoke farewell that does just that. We’ll explain the various service options and ask you about your loved one’s wishes – things like whether they wanted to be buried or cremated, and any other requests for their funeral like their favourite music or flowers. Your Funeral Planner will help you make the decisions that feel right for you.
If you need some time to think, we can organise a follow-up meeting to confirm the details. We will provide itemised costs so you can understand our fees, as well as payment options available to you.
"I can do all this through him who gives me strength"
Philippians 4:13
What to expect on the funeral day?
Funerals can look very different across cultures and religions. However, here are some of the common things that can be included:
Before the funeral
Viewing – a special moment for close family and friends to say a private goodbye, with or without an open coffin.
During the funeral
Arrival – a chance to spend some time with friends and family before the service.
Pall-bearing – an opportunity for family and friends to accompany their loved one on their final journey.
Ceremony – the formal proceedings may involve readings, rituals, prayers and/or music
Eulogy – an opportunity for close family members or friends to express their love
Burial or cremation – you may like a final moment to say farewell before your loved one is laid to rest.
After the funeral
Reception – a chance for guests to gather after the service to share memories and reminisce.
Though this isn't mandatory, its a way to connect with persons you may not have seen or heard from for a long time.