Pre-planning your own funeral may seem like a daunting task many steer away from, but planning ahead is an act of love that can provide comfort and clarity to your family when they need it most. By ensuring your wishes are respected, you can alleviate some of the emotional and financial strain on your family during a difficult time.
To guide you through this process, Nirvana (Fu Gui Shan Zhuang), an established private columbarium in Singapore, has created a comprehensive checklist on how to plan your funeral. Keep reading to learn how you can navigate this important journey with confidence.
Consider Funeral Preferences
The first step in planning your own funeral is to consider your personal preferences. Begin by reflecting on various factors such as religious beliefs, the type of service you want, and your preferred final disposition. For instance, some religious funeral traditions that must be honoured may require specific rites or prayers, which should be clearly outlined in your plan.
Next, consider where your wake will be held. Common options include void decks, Multi-Purpose Halls (MPH), or even a funeral parlour, such as the ones at Nirvana. Finally, choosing your final resting place is an important decision that will shape many other aspects of your funeral arrangements. This includes selecting the niche where you will rest, which is one of our key offerings. You may also wish to consider personal details such as the clothes you’d like to wear, any photos to accompany you, or special decorations and items you want to include.
Choose a Funeral Director
When choosing a funeral director, it’s important to find someone who is compassionate, experienced, and understands your wishes. Research and read reviews, or ask for recommendations from friends and family. Once you have a shortlist, arrange meetings to discuss your plans and gauge how comfortable you feel with each director. A good funeral director will listen to your preferences, offer helpful suggestions, and ensure that all administrative requirements are met.
Furthermore, a funeral director can assist with the creation of a detailed funeral plan that outlines your wishes. This plan can include specifics such as the type of service, music selections, readings, and any personal touches you want to include. By working closely with a professional, you can ensure that every aspect of your funeral is handled with care and respect.
Work Out the Costs
Funerals can be expensive, so be sure to explore various types that meet your needs without causing undue financial strain on your loved ones. Choose from a range of funeral service packages that include all essential services, including embalming and transportation, with no additional charges. Carefully compare these packages, considering what is included and any additional fees that might apply.
In Singapore, you also have the option of choosing between public and private columbariums. Public columbariums like Choa Chu Kang Columbarium are generally more affordable and managed by the government, offering a range of basic services and facilities. Private columbariums, such as Nirvana (Fu Gui Shan Zhuang), provide more premium services, personalised memorials, and a higher level of maintenance and care.
Given the rising costs of funerals due to inflation, it’s important to pre-plan your arrangements to avoid higher expenses in the future. At Nirvana, our charges are transparent, allowing you to manage costs effectively. Pre-planning with a funeral director also helps relieve your loved ones from the overwhelming stress of decision-making during their time of grief so that they can focus on mourning without additional worries.
A funeral is often regarded as 人生的最后一场毕业典礼 (The last graduation ceremony in life). Pre-planning your own funeral and selecting a niche can be a thoughtful and considerate final gift, offering peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. It alleviates financial burdens and emotional stress during their time of grief. With this funeral planning guide, you can live fully in the present, knowing your legacy will be honoured with dignity and care.
If you’re considering your final arrangements, explore Nirvana’s serene facilities and personalised services. With options for family columbariums, single and double niches, twin double niches and excellent Feng Shui, contact us to discover how we can help you plan a dignified farewell tailored to your preferences.