uk funerals

Eco funerals and Coffins for Cremations and Burials

2010-03-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

Many of us like to do our bit for the environment but would we think about extending our green principals to our funeral?

Steven Mears, Independent Funeral Directors, can offer a solution that’s much more Eco friendly than traditional funeral options. The Coffin Cover is a unique innovation in coffin design that can provide a solution to environmental, social and financial concerns for a family making funeral arrangements.

It’s effectively an external protective shell that provides a dignified means of transport for a simple coffin inside. The Coffin Cover is a handmade veneered casket, shaped to provide a distinctive traditional appearance. Concealed discreetly inside is a separate and very simple internal coffin made of an environmentally friendly and biodegradable material. It is this internal coffin that is removed from the outer Coffin Cover and cremated or buried.

The outer Coffin Cover, which never comes into direct contact with the deceased, can then be re-used on other occasions and the family only pays for the simple internal coffin. The benefits of using the Coffin Cover are that it helps protect the environment by reducing the number of trees needed for coffin and casket production. It can also reduce carbon emissions and even crematorium costs in some crematoriums (such as Croydon). In addition, the Coffin Cover actually allows families to provide a much higher quality coffin appearance than they would necessarily purchase.

If you are interested in the Coffin Cover or our equally popular Wicker Coffin then please contact Steven Mears on 0800 731 4972. We can also help with Funeral pre-payment and planning.

How to Avoid a Disaster When Purchasing Your Funeral Flowers

2010-02-28T05:38:00.000-08:00

A funeral is a very, very sad time for most families and as such care should be taken in purchasing any funeral flowers. This article explains how you should approach purchasing your flowers to get the very best from them and to suit this very sensitive occasion.
Funeral flowers are the perfect way to share your grief with the bereaved. It can be a mine field when you first look into sending flowers for a funeral. There are many different types of funeral arrangements, and you must bear in mind that different cultures sometimes may view funeral flowers in a different light to yourself. It would be a good idea to talk to the bereaved or someone close who understands their needs or culture to make sure you get it just right. You could talk to a professional funeral florist who know how to deal with this very sensitive issue.
Sympathy Flowers
There is a wide variety of sympathy flowers you could send, you would send these as a friend or colleague to the family as a token of your shared grief and the flowers are usually kept at the home after the funeral to provide comfort for quite a few days after. These can include such things as; small vases simply designed, hand tied bouquets, cello wrapped bouquets or a rose plant perhaps.
Funeral Flowers
Funeral Flowers are different than Sympathy Flowers as they generally go with the funeral to the church or crematorium and again can be delivered to the house or the Funeral Directors. You would need to check this with the family or ask a professional funeral florist whom you would like to commission to create the flowers for you.
These can be sent from family members, friends and colleagues and should be in the form of; a sheaf at the budget end through to posies, open spray, casket spray, wreaths, tied sheafs, love hearts, pillows, cushions, wording in flowers, designer pieces such as trucks, bikes, or anything that can take your imagination. The latter tend to the most expensive but are usually quite large and stunning!
For both Sympathy and Funeral flowers, if you know what the deceased favourite flowers were, it might be a very touching gesture to send those types of flowers as it will help to comfort the family no end and help to share their grief which will be much appreciated.
When to Order
You really need to order the flowers, either Sympathy or Funeral as soon as you know the funeral date. This gives the florist lots of time to create your stunning bouquet, arrangement or wreath etc. The flowers should be delivered at least 2 hrs before the time of the funeral. Most Professional Florists are extremely good at dealing with funerals and will have answers to all your questions and will be able to advise accordingly.

Tip
Don't try to do this yourself as the last thing you want is for things to not be quite right or worse they arrive at the wrong time at the wrong place. Put your trust in the professionals they know what they are doing.

AfterCare of the Funeral Flowers
If the flowers are to be kept at home following the funeral here are some tips to help them last... The only flowers really that are taken home or kept at home after the funeral would be the sheaf or potted plant. We will deal with the sheaf first.
AfterCare of The Sheaf
Unpack the flowers from the cello wrapping and cut the stems on an angle about 15mm up from the bottom. This will help the flower to take in water as over time if left the flower stem will seal its self and prevent the intake of water. Arrange the flowers in a nice vase.
AfterCare of The Potted Plant
These are relatively easy to look after. All you really have to remember is to keep away from radiators and check the water regularly. The best way to see if a plant needs water is to push your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle joint and if this feels moist the plant doesn't need watering. You can OVER water plants and some drink more than others so check regularly.
Again if you are not sure about aftercare consult with your Professional Funeral Florist, they will be only too pleased to help.
Barbara K. Jackson NDSF

World Renowned, Highly Qualified Professional Florist
Proprietor of Millers Florist based in Oldham, Manchester, UK

http://www.millersflorist.co.uk/

Barbara has taught the art of designer floristry in many colleges in th UK. She runs a very successful floristry business and is one of the top florists in the UK... If it's advice you want you won't go far wrong here.

Choosing Funeral Flowers

2010-02-27T03:32:00.000-08:00

Choosing Funeral Flowers

Funerals are very sad occasions and there is a lot of planning required to organise a funeral service for deceased loved ones. Arranging funeral flowers for the wake or memorial service can be a daunting task due to the sensitive nature of the occasion, ensure you choose the most appropriate flowers.
Funeral flowers usually reflect the deceased person's personality. Sometimes they symbolise the relationship that existed between the funeral arranger and the deceased. Your choice in flowers can show your love and respect for the deceased person.
What type of flower should be chosen?

- Rose - Carnation - Lily - Gerbera Daisy - Aster - Delphinium - Gladiolus - Chrysanthemum

While roses and carnations are considered classic and traditional, a more contemporary funeral flower arrangement combines two or more types of flowers to create a unique and beautiful style.
What is the correct colour to pick?
- Flowers can have a great effect on the moods of people. The mere presence of flowers can lift the spirits of a gloomy person. The colour of funeral flowers varies with individual preferences. It ranges from darker shades like purple to brighter ones like yellow. More often than not, we see funeral flowers in soft, pastel, and muted hues, rather than in loud and glaring tones.
- The colour of funeral flowers also depends on the venue of the funeral service. In a funeral home with collared halls, a large white wreath might look quite breathtaking. But this may not be the case if it is placed in a white church or a funeral home. Adding some colour can provide a welcome relief from the already gloomy surroundings.

What is the appropriate flower arrangement to choose?
- Flower arrangements for funerals can be both informal and formal. Formal floral arrangements include wreaths and crosses. While flower covered crosses are appropriate for Christian funeral services, wreaths can be used in almost all kinds of funerals.

- Informal flower arrangements for funeral services can include baskets, cut flowers, potted plants, posies, pedestal arrangements, bouquets, planters, headstone flowers, casket lid floral arrangements, sprays, and even a bunch of floral sticks tied with a ribbon.

Many a times, sprays are placed over the deceased's casket. Crosses, bouquets, and wreaths are generally used as displays. These are arranged around the room or hall in which the funeral service takes place. Flowers have the ability to make the ambience soothing and lighten the mood of the mourners.

In recent times, custom-made funeral flower arrangements have become increasingly popular. There are florists who specialise in creating arrangements that reflect the personality of the deceased. Different patterns, designs, and styles can be juxtaposed to create a unique funeral flower arrangement which will be a real tribute to the deceased. Funeral flowers are perhaps the most elegant and simple way to pay our respects to the departed soul.

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Funerals are a painful time and we offer free advice to help you through the pain:

http://www.thefuneralplanner.co.uk/
http://www.submityourarticle.com/

Horse Drawn Funerals - Cost

2010-02-23T06:20:00.001-08:00

Dear Sir/Madam

I am researching the need, occurrence and cost of both traditional and the green or woodland funeral services in the South Devon area. In particular I am looking at providing a horse drawn hearse to these funerals and what are the likely charges that should be applied.

I would be grateful of any guidance, advice or information you could provide in this respect.

I thank you in kind anticipation of your assistance.

Freesia flowers - for people who want to brighten up an ordinary week

2010-02-17T00:41:00.000-08:00

Yellow
Generally associated with sun and Spring time. In ancient Egypt yellow stood for beauty. Romans used to bleech their hair as blonds have more fun (yes, they already knew). Ancient China thought emperors and the royal family were descendants from the sun and therefore only they were allowed to wear the colour. Yellow cars are very little involved in traffic accidents compared to other coloured vehicles. If your favourite colour is yellow you are full of life, versatile, intelligent and love to travel.

Red
Human beings are sensitive to this colour in every way! It attracts and fears us at the same time. It is used to warn us for danger, it is the colour of fire, blood but also the colour of ripe fruits and berries. Red is associated with passion and heat. So if you favourite colour is red, you never experience a dull moment in your life.

South African man looking to become a Funeral Director

2010-02-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

Good day.

I am interested in pursuing a career in the funeral undertaking industry.

I am prepared to start anywhere and would like to know if you could point me in the right direction on how to get started.

I am a 34 year old South African male living in Herne Bay. I used to work as a casual weekend worker at a parlour in South Africa when I was younger and from there my interest grew into what I believe to be a calling.

Regards

Johan

Cemetery Permit fees - I don't want to pay them - DO YOU

2010-02-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

Cemetery Permit Fees Explained

The Cemetery or Church yard will usually charge you a 'permit fee' to allow us to erect a memorial or headstone on the grave.

This is to cover the cost of checking the name and signature of the registered owner of the grave, that the inscription is within the guide lines allowed and that the proposed memorial is allowed.

Some cemeteries only allow granite memorials or granite headstones. Different finishes such as high polished, honed or rustic are allowed to finish the headstone memorial. Once you have informed us of the memorial you are considering we will contact the cemetery and obtain a permit form and the regulations to help you make a more informed choice.

The cost of the permit fee will be passed on to you by us at cost. This fee will very from £30-£300 depending on the cemetery.

Are there any stories out there of people getting away without paying these fees?

Headstones are not merely markers

2010-02-08T07:32:00.000-08:00

A memorial headstone is not merely a marker erected over a grave to remind us of the name of the deceased. It is a lasting symbol of remembrance: a tribute to a life now ended; perhaps a final gift to someone dearly loved. It is therefore extremely important that its design and the firm producing it should be carefully chosen. Hasty decisions made choosing memorials and headstones while still in a distraught condition are very often the cause of later regrets, so it is advisable to wait and perhaps spend some time looking around.

Memorials and headstones may take many forms but we will concentrate on those erected in cemeteries or churchyards. Such memorials need to be of a material which will withstand all kinds of weather, take a permanent carved inscription (and possibly additional ones later on), be suitable for shaping and ornamentation, and harmonise with the surroundings. It should also weather attractively. Centuries have shown that natural stone materials (i.e. stone, slate, marble and granite) have all these qualities.

http://www.memorialcentre.co.uk/graniteheadstone.html

Funeral Flowers - Discussed by all

2010-02-07T07:43:00.000-08:00

There can be no greater sight than a sea of fresh flowers offered as a tribute to a persons life at their funeral. Personal tributes can say more than words when chosen carefully.

Funeral Flowers such as funeral wreaths, funeral sprays and name tributes require special attention as they are prepared. They are always hand delivered by the florist a couple of hours prior to the funeral. The Florist will work as closely with the Funeral Director as possible to ensure that your wreath tribute is as vibrant looking at the actual funeral service as it is when it leaves the shop.

You can chose a wreath from a traditional bouquet or funeral wreath ring or ask the florist to create a funeral tribute from your own description.

8 Ways to Plan Your Green Burial in Advance

2010-02-07T06:19:00.000-08:00

If you are considering a green funeral the best way to make sure that everything is carried out the way that you want it is to pre plan it yourself. How to plan a natural burial:

1. Pre-plan when possible.

If possible, make the arrangements ahead of the time of need to ensure that your wishes are carried out.

2. State Your Wishes.

Even if you are unable to make the arrangements in advance, take the time to state your intentions. Verbally tell your loved ones what your wishes are. But, also, write them down and include a copy of those written instructions with your Last Will and Testament as well as with other important family documents. Some people even take the time to mail or email a copy of those instructions to loved ones so that when the time comes, there is no doubt about what you wish.

3. Be aware of the law.

Your state, region or country may have specific laws and guidelines in place that govern how human remains must be handled or transported. Check with a local funeral director, health agency or even do Internet searches to make sure you fully understand the laws in your area.

4. Seek help.

Don't be shy about asking for the assistance and advice of family and friends. Even pre-planning can be an emotional and confusing time. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness. It's the best way to show how much you care about the people in your life.
Furthermore, seek the advice of a local funeral director who may be able to answer any questions that you have.

5. Find out if your region or area has a Funeral Consumers Alliance.

A Funeral Consumers Alliance (also referred to as a "memorial society") will be able to guide you through the steps you will need to take as well as offer valuable advice in planning a green burial. Furthermore, such a group may have already negotiated or may be able to negotiate prices of services on your behalf.

6. Research The Green Burial Council.

The Green Burial council is a not-for profit organization which was formed in order to set standards for green burials, funerals and cemeteries. Furthermore, the Council will be able to supply you with a list of green funeral homes, cemeteries and other resources in your area. This non-profit organization has established standards for truly green natural cemeteries. It also maintains a by-state list of green funeral directors and cemeteries.

7. Remember the nature is dignified.

Those who worry that burial without the traditional trappings is without dignity, rest assured that doing something that is good for the planet is one of the most respectful and beautiful things that you can do. A casket made of jute, cardboard, paper or fabric is more dignified than a mahogany casket which was manufactured at a tremendous cost to the Earth.

8. Decide on your container.

In a green burial, if a casket is used at all, that casket is required to be of a biodegradable material. Many casket manufacturers produce special biodegradable caskets ranging from easily biodegradable wood or particle board to paper products such as cardboard. If you are pre-planning, you also have the option of making and decorating your own casket or container.

The following agencies and organizations will be able to offer you specific advice for arranging a green burial in your country, region or state. A quick Internet search for these particular entities will bring you to their web sites.

Green Burial or Cremation Companies

• Green Endings (UK)
• Memorial Ecosystems (USA)
• Natural Endings (UK)
• Promessa (Sweden)

Green and Natural Burial Organizations

• Green Burial Council (USA)
• Green Burials (USA)
• The Natural Burial Association (Canada)
• Natural Burials (New Zealand)
• The Natural Death Centre (UK)
• Natuurlijk Dood Centrum (Netherlands)
• The Source Association (Poland)
• The Trust for Natural Legacies (USA)

You must be aware of the laws in your area regarding the handling, transportation and burial of human remains. However, many people-just as they do with natural childbirth-prefer this natural, gentle and personal way of dying.

Hal Stevens owns the CemeterySpot family of websites that provide products, services and resource directories related to end of life topics. Services include the CemeterySpot FREE Online Memorial Listing Service and the CemeterySpot FREE Cemetery Property Listing Service. Hal is also the author of several critically acclaimed eBooks specifically written to help people deal with end of life issues. His eBooks include topics such as: cremation, writing and delivering a eulogy, eco-friendly green funerals, funeral planning, organ donation, and buying and selling cemetery plots.

To find out more about these free services and resources, to learn more about his books, and to get a free gift, visit http://www.cemeteryspot.com