Having a dignified send off for a loved one who has just died does not have to be an expensive venture. Organizing a memorial service can end up costing a lot if you do not make an effort to manage expenses. There are certain steps you can take to help you minimize funeral costs.
Decide whether you want to make the burial arrangements on your own or you would rather hire a funeral director. Making your own arrangements would be much cheaper. If you would rather outsource the work to someone else, shop around and find the most affordable options. Also, instead of paying for a whole package deal, only pay for services that you need.
If the cost of a burial is too high for you, have the body cremated. All you will need to pay for are the cost of a cheap coffin and the crematorium fees. This will eliminate the need for a memorial service and the expenses that go with it.
Shop around and look for affordable caskets. Request to view low cost models. Caskets are usually one of the most expensive items in a burial. Lower priced models are usually made from soft wood. The other option is not to buy a casket but to use a shroud instead.
No need to hire vehicles for the memorial service if your friends and family are willing to provide transportation. Get the exact number of vehicles you need, no need for an entourage. Also, having guests make financial donations rather than bringing flowers to the memorial service will help you get some extra money to cover burial expenses.
You can have the memorial service conducted at a family member's home to avoid having to hire a venue. You can also look around for an affordable officiant or have a friend or family member who is an ordained minister carry out the service. Have volunteer grave diggers and pallbearers so as to keep funeral costs down.
