Regardless of which burial option is selected, or whether it is for full or cremated remains, let's look at what's involved in planning a burial. We've broken down the discussion into three areas of concern: the selection of cemetery and burial property, choosing a casket and burial vault; and planning the details of the service.
1. Selection of Cemetery and Burial Property
Before we get too far into the subject, we should mention that a family member may have already chosen and purchased a burial plot or mausoleum crypt. It's also very possible a distant relative purchased a large section in a local cemetery intended for the future burial of family members. In either of those situations, you'll need to obtain the documents necessary to prove ownership of burial rights and then bring them to the initial meeting with the funeral director.
What if there is no such pre-plan in place? Then you will need to locate a cemetery and select the burial property on your own. And while we know today's consumers are smart and have access to more information about products and services than ever before, we also know that the purchase of cemetery property isn't a commonly-made transaction. For that reason, we offer the following information:
Because we have strong working relationships with local cemetery administrators, we want to help you with this part of the process. Simply call us at (207) 244-3183 to get started.
2. Choosing a Casket and Vault
You'll typically read that the casket is the single most expensive purchase you'll need to make during this time. And while we can't really disagree with that statement, we will tell you that the purchase doesn't have to cost you more than you can afford. We have a wide selection of caskets, urns and burial vaults to choose from, and will work closely with you to keep the cost of your loved one's burial within your family's budget.
The cost aside, the type of casket or urn you select will be based largely on personal preference. There are caskets and urns of walnut, cherry, maple, oak, pine and other species of wood. Metal caskets come in varying thicknesses and a wide array of finishes, and metal urns are available in bronze, pewter, brass, and stainless to name a few. Urns are also available in ceramic and composite materials. Like caskets and urns, the selection of burial vaults vary widely from the basic to the fully sealing copper-lined. We don't want you to guess what's best for your situation; instead we'd like you to turn to us for assistance. We've got the experience to guide you in the selection of the most appropriate casket and vault for your needs. Call us at (207) 244-3183, or stop by our office.
3. Planning the Details of the Service
The service really depend on your motives and emotional needs. During the planning process, we can expand on the options introduced in the Memorialization Services and determine whether a traditional doctrinal service is called for, if your creativity should be unleashed to create a truly unique and personal experience, or if a simple burial meets the requirement. Certainly, the selection of the cemetery and burial plot are practical decisions; but planning the service is where the heart can take over. Your funeral director is here to help with the decisions and the details.
Are You Ready to Talk?
We're ready to listen. In fact, that's what we do best: we not only hear the words, we understand the feelings and the familial dynamics behind them. When you call us at (207) 244-3183 for assistance in making the necessary arrangements for your loved one, you'll discover the value of having an experienced ally committed to serving your family as you would wish to be served.