Funeral
arrangements.

Your first conversation

We begin
by listening.

The first conversation is simply a chance for us to listen. We will ask about your loved one, what has happened and whether there are any wishes, beliefs or traditions you would like us to understand.

You do not need to have every answer or make every decision during this conversation.

We can begin by discussing

• Burial or cremation wishes
• Written or previously expressed wishes
• Religious, spiritual or cultural traditions
• The type of ceremony being considered
• Any time-sensitive arrangements
• Who will be involved in decisions

If you are unsure about any of these things, we will explain the available choices without pressure. The arrangements can develop gradually as you and your family feel ready.

Burial or cremation

A choice that feels
right for your family.

Your loved one may have left clear wishes about burial or cremation. If no preference was expressed, we will explain both options and help your family consider what feels most appropriate.

There is no single right choice. We will explain the practical, personal and ceremonial considerations clearly so your family can decide without pressure.

Choosing where the ceremony takes place

A setting with
meaning.

A funeral ceremony does not have to follow a fixed format or take place in one particular setting. We can help you choose a location that reflects your loved one, your family and the farewell you would like to create.

• A crematorium
• A church or place of worship
• A cemetery chapel
• A funeral venue or ceremony hall
• A natural burial ground
• A family home or private venue
• Another meaningful permitted location

Some families hold the ceremony and committal in the same place. Others prefer a service at one venue followed by a smaller burial or cremation ceremony. We will check availability, make the bookings and coordinate everyone involved.

Transport and the funeral procession

Every journey,
carefully planned.

We will coordinate the journey from bringing your loved one into our care through to the funeral and final place of rest.

• A traditional or alternative hearse
• Vehicles for close family
• A route past a meaningful place
• Family, friends or professional pallbearers
• Travel between ceremony and committal
• Transport for ceremony participants

The funeral procession can be simple and private or include traditional details that hold meaning for your family. We will confirm the order, timings and route beforehand so your family knows what to expect.

Music, flowers and personal tributes

Details that feel
true to their life.

The details can reflect your loved one’s personality, beliefs, interests and the memories your family shared.

• Music, hymns and prayers
• Readings, poems and family tributes
• A eulogy or life story
• Floral arrangements and coffin tributes
• Photographs and tribute videos
• Orders of service and keepsakes
• Personal items or meaningful symbols
• Charitable donations

Family and friends may wish to speak, perform music, carry the coffin or take part in a ritual. Others may prefer the ceremony to be led entirely by a minister or celebrant. We can arrange either approach with care.

Visiting your loved one

Time together,
if it feels right.

Some families find comfort in spending time with their loved one before the funeral, while others prefer to remember them as they were. This is a completely personal choice, and there is no expectation either way.

If you would like to visit, we can discuss

• When and where a private visit can take place
• Who you would like to attend
• Clothing, jewellery or personal items
• Photographs, letters or flowers
• Prayers, blessings or family rituals
• A minister or faith leader attending

We will prepare your loved one with dignity and care, following your family’s wishes wherever possible. You can decide later, change your mind or ask us questions beforehand.

Understanding your choices and costs

Clear choices,
explained openly.

We believe every family should understand what they are choosing and what it will cost before making any commitment.

Funeral costs can vary depending on the type of funeral, burial or cremation fees, venue, transport, coffin, flowers, printed materials and other personal choices. We will explain which services are essential and which are optional.

Your written estimate will identify

• Everlay’s professional services
• Burial or cremation fees
• Venue and officiant costs
• Coffin or casket choices
• Vehicles and transport
• Flowers, printing and tributes

There is no pressure to select more than feels appropriate or affordable. If you have a budget in mind, you can discuss it with us openly. We will tell you about any changes before additional costs are agreed.