Having a dignified send off for a loved one who has just died does not have to be an expensive venture. Organizing a memorial service can end up costing a lot if you do not make an effort to manage expenses. There are certain steps you can take to help you minimize funeral costs.
Making your own burial arrangements is usually cheaper than having to hire someone else to do it. However, if you must hire someone to help you with the organization, find someone whose services are affordable. Also, only outsource the specific services you want instead of getting a whole package deal that you may not use fully.
If the cost of a burial is too high for you, have the body cremated. All you will need to pay for are the cost of a cheap coffin and the crematorium fees. This will eliminate the need for a memorial service and the expenses that go with it.
Shop around and look for affordable caskets. Request to view low cost models. Caskets are usually one of the most expensive items in a burial. Lower priced models are usually made from soft wood. The other option is not to buy a casket but to use a shroud instead.
Minimize the usage of vehicles and flowers. You do not need to hire expensive cars to transport the body and mourners. If you have your own vehicle, consider using it as a hearse. You can organize to have a few wreaths as flowers can be expensive. Ask guests to make financial donations instead of buying flowers.
You can have the memorial service conducted at a family member's home to avoid having to hire a venue. You can also look around for an affordable officiant or have a friend or family member who is an ordained minister carry out the service. Have volunteer grave diggers and pallbearers so as to keep funeral costs down.
