How to create a meaningful funeral plan on a budget

Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience. Planning a funeral can add extra stress, especially when considering the costs involved.

At Celebration of Life (COL), we believe that a meaningful farewell doesn't have to be expensive. It's about honouring your loved one's memory in a personal and heartfelt way. Here's how you can create a meaningful funeral plan on a budget:

Meaningful funeral plan on a budget

1. Embrace direct cremation

Direct cremation is a simple, low-cost alternative to a traditional funeral. With COL, a direct cremation means no service is held at the crematorium.

Instead, we inform the family of the date and time of the cremation, allowing you to create a special moment at home. This approach significantly reduces costs, freeing up resources for a more personalised celebration of life.

2. Personalise the Celebration of Life

The real heart of a meaningful farewell lies in the celebration of life. Here are some ideas to make it personal:

• Memory table: Create a display with photos, memorabilia, and cherished items that represent your loved one's life and passions.
• Share stories: Encourage family and friends to share their favourite memories and stories. This can be done informally or through prepared speeches.
• Personalised music: Play your loved one's favourite music or songs that hold special meaning.
• DIY decorations: Instead of expensive floral arrangements, consider DIY decorations that reflect your loved one's personality.
• Themed gathering: Host a gathering that reflects their hobbies or passions. Was your loved one an avid gardener? Consider a garden-themed memorial.

3. Choose a meaningful location

The location of the celebration can also add a personal touch. Instead of a formal venue, consider:

• Home: Your home can offer a comfortable and intimate setting for close family and friends.
• Park or garden: A beautiful outdoor space can be a peaceful and reflective setting.
• Community centre: These venues often offer affordable rental rates.
• A place that was special to the deceased: This could be a favourite hiking spot, a beach, or any location that held significance for them. 

4. Creative ways to honour remains

There are many unique and personal ways to honour your loved one's remains. COL returns ashes in a biodegradable scatter tube, perfect for burial or scattering. But you could also:

• Turn ashes into jewellery or keepsakes.
• Release them in a firework display.
• Scatter them at sea.
• Plant them with a seedling to grow a memorial tree.

5. Funeral plan for peace of mind

Consider a prepaid direct cremation plan with COL. This allows you to take control of your funeral arrangements, lock in today's prices, and ease the burden on your family during a difficult time. Our fully inclusive direct cremation prepaid plan offers peace of mind and financial security.

6. Don't be afraid to ask for help

Planning a funeral can be overwhelming. Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or community organisations. Sharing the responsibilities can ease the burden and ensure that the celebration of life is a collaborative and meaningful effort.

Talk to Celebration of Life to arrange a direct cremation

At Celebration of Life (COL), we're committed to providing affordable and meaningful direct cremation services. We understand that every family is unique, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

Contact us today at 0800 150 3555 to learn more about our services. We're available from 8 am to 6 pm, 7 days a week, with urgent care available 24 hours a day. If you're calling from overseas, you can reach us at +44 2380 989 170.