Choose the right format, readings, music, ceremony and style to suit the person who has died, and the natural setting will add the final touch. Traditional or unconventional, informal and celebratory – remember that this is an opportunity to celebrate a person’s life.
A natural burial can be the final part of a traditional funeral after a service at a church or chapel, with a group of family and close friends coming to the committal at the natural burial ground. Remember, your funeral director is there to help you arrange what you want.
Ministers and humanist celebrants can provide a framework for the event. This can often help put people at ease and allows for planning what is said, who will speak, the choice of music, and opportunities for children to be included.
However, it is not necessary to stick to tradition if you would prefer something different. Conduct the service at the burial ground; celebrate with an open-air picnic; wear bright colours or a favourite team’s strip; decorate the coffin yourselves; take favourite things – even the dog; release doves, let yourself be creative and individual. Remember, your funeral director is there to help you arrange what you want.
Remember to tell those attending the burial that ground conditions might be uneven and wet so stout footwear and wellies in the winter may be necessary.
Ministers and humanist celebrants can provide a framework for the event. This can often help put people at ease and allows for planning what is said, who will speak, the choice of music, and opportunities for children to be included.
You are welcome to hold your ceremony at the burial ground and take as long as you need. However during the winter months, or in inclement summer weather, you might want to organise a venue for a gathering before and after the burial. Remember to tell those attending the burial that ground conditions might be uneven and wet so stout footwear and wellies in the winter may be necessary. If you have reliable and efficient friends (who will be longing to be asked to help) then go ahead and delegate.
Take some single flowers, lavender or petals to scatter into the grave afterwards. A tied bunch of garden flowers or a simple posy is more fitting to the surroundings than an elaborate arrangement.
Return and visit as often you wish. Some people find it helps with grieving to mark anniversaries of events and holidays with a visit to the burial site. Spend time reflecting in a peaceful setting; come again with family and friends and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Please give us a call on 01600 716438 if you need any help or advice. Our experiences with other families means we can tell you what others have done before and worked well.