It may not be a pleasant task, but planning a loved one's funeral can be a lot less overwhelming with the proper understanding and support. However, knowing a few often-forgotten tasks in advance can also be helpful. With this guide, you will learn a few important things to remember when planning your loved one's final goodbye.

Traditional Is Not Your Only Option

When most people think of planning a funeral, they think of a traditional viewing and service at a funeral home, followed by a burial and memorial service at a cemetery. While sufficient, a traditional funeral is not your only option.

Many people are choosing cremation services for their recently-decreased loved ones because it both effecient and affordable. The cremation can also be customized to your family's needs. For instance, you can have the cremation and a memorial service together or you can plan a memorial to scatter or bury the ashes of your loved one after the cremation.

There are no right or wrong answers when planning a funeral, but you should take your loved one's wishes into consideration. If your loved one had a will or a preneed, be sure to bring this to the funeral home.

Yes, Obituaries Are Still Important

The number of people who read newspapers has decreased drastically over the last few years. However, an obituary is not just something printed in the papers. Today, obituaries can be printed in your local paper and posted online so people all over the country and even world can read about your loved one's life and death.

When writing an obituary, focus less on their passing and more on the life they lived and the legacy they left behind. Even though they may have spent their last few years battling a terminal illness, share more details about the good your loved one did and the love they shared with others.

The Small Details Matter

When planning a funeral service of any kind, you may overlook the small stuff. Unfortunately, neglecting the small stuff could make the service feel very impersonal.

Flowers can bring a great deal of life to an event centered around a person's death. Consider flowers that your loved one enjoyed or flowers that represent their birth month.

Even music can add personality to your loved one's final goodbye. Consider hiring your loved one's favorite band or musician. Or, stream their favorite music throughout the funeral home or cemetery during their actual viewing and memorial service.