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.
Decide whether you want to make the burial arrangements on your own or you would rather hire a funeral director. Making your own arrangements would be much cheaper. If you would rather outsource the work to someone else, shop around and find the most affordable options. Also, instead of paying for a whole package deal, only pay for services that you need.
You should consider cremation. This is a low cost method of interment because it only involves buying a low cost coffin and having the body interred at a crematorium. There will be no need for a memorial service, viewing of the body or anything else. You must talk to family members to ensure that this is acceptable to all of them.
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.
