Where Will the Service Be?
Where the funeral service is held is an important aspect of funeral planning.
You may choose to use one of our venues, a crematorium chapel, or if the person who has died was a member of a religious denomination, often the service is held in their local church.
A funeral service can also be held in the family home or any other setting that has significance for the person who has died and their family.
When arranging a large funeral, families sometimes choose another venue appropriate to the large number of people likely to attend.
A catering lounge for a ‘cup of tea’ is also seen as an important feature when selecting a venue. A funeral director will be happy to discuss suitable options for you to consider.
Clergy or Celebrant?
Funeral celebrants (male or female) are available to conduct services. Celebrants will provide a service that is appropriate to your needs and cultural beliefs. They will generally lead a civil service, but often incorporate prayers and religious aspects if required. Lamb & Hayward engages a group of highly skilled celebrants and will recommend one that we feel will be suitable to you and your family.
If you are a member of a religious denomination, your priest or minister will be the obvious person to contact regarding the funeral service. Your funeral director will then liaise with them regarding the date and time, and will maintain contact leading up to the funeral.
Funeral Timing
When to hold the funeral is entirely up to you. Some people believe three days after death is the correct timing; however, legally there is no set time. Given the many matters to consider in arranging a modern funeral, it is not uncommon for a funeral to be held five to seven days after death. If necessary it can be held still later to allow people coming from overseas to attend.
We can assure you it is far better not to rush the planning of a funeral. Allowing more time helps you to make clearer decisions. When people are rushed they may forget or overlook matters, leading to regrets afterwards.