This is the meeting between you and one of our funeral directors to discuss the funeral arrangements. This will usually be at our funeral office or in your own home. The meeting usually lasts about one hour.
We would liaise with various parties to arrive at a firm funeral date, for instance the Crematorium or Cemetery, the minister, organist, Churchwardens, and (for burial) the gravedigger.
In conversation with you we will talk about the type of funeral service that is right for your loved one, including music, special readings and - most importantly - who is to be asked to officiate at the ceremony.
There will be discussion of your requirements for transport on the day, and all matters relating to floral tributes and/or charitable donations.
We will provide you with help and advice regarding the registration of the death, including your legal responsibilities in this regard.
We are happy to advise on wording for newspaper announcements and will be able to place the announcement in the newspaper of your choice.
Your wishes regarding visiting the Chapel of Rest will be discussed, as will the type of coffin to be provided.
If the funeral is to be a cremation, we will discuss with you the options for dispersal of cremation ashes.
The Crematorium or Cemetery will require your signature on various forms and we will assist to make this task as quick and as simple as possible.
The interview would include our detailed advice on the cost of the funeral with the production of an itemised estimate and a confirmation of the arrangements in writing.
We conclude with a review of the choices you have made, a reminder of any information/decisions still needed and an outline of what will happen on the day.
Sometimes it becomes apparent that an additional meeting is needed, which we are happy to arrange at your convenience.