Following details should be considered, when planning funerals:

• Venue for the ceremony
• Secular or church service
• Coffin burial or cremation
• Selection of the coffin or urn
• Funeral transport (hearse)
• Where to bury, or when cremated, where to scatter ashes
• Flowers, other arrangements and decorations, candles
• List of people to invite to the funeral
• Music selection
• Venue for the wake
• Funeral rituals and customs that are important for loved ones to know
• You can also write down an overview of your life, choose the best photos, and prepare your own farewell message on paper or as a recording. Saying goodbye is a beautiful way to express your love and gratitude to your loved ones. It can be read out at the wake or presented digitally.

Here are some additional reminders for pre-planning a funeral:

• Consider the wishes of your loved ones.
• Don’t be overly detailed.
• Be prepared to change your plans during the conversation.

Information on funeral plans should be fixed writing and the loved ones should know where to find it.

Here are some guidance on how to find out your loved one’s funeral wishes:

• Ask them what they want: Ask your loved one about their funeral wishes.
• Be empathetic: Remain calm and empathetic, even if the topics are emotional. Listen to your loved one and respect their decisions.
• Recording: Once you have heard from your loved one about their wishes, it is important to record them. Keep or ask a loved one to keep copies of funeral wishes, contracts and other important documents in a safe place, and inform other loved ones who should be aware of these wishes.
• Ask if they have any final wishes regarding their property and contracts (see also Contracts and how these are concluded). Write down all of their wishes or ask them to personally write them down.
• Rely on professionals:If the issues concern contracts and the distribution of property, it may be necessary to consult a legal adviser or a notary. This will ensure that everything is handled legally and according to the wishes of your loved one.

Pre-planning a funeral may seem difficult, but it is an important step that can help loved ones cope with a difficult time in the event of your death, and can give you and your loved ones peace of mind and reassurance. Put it all in writing so it’s easy for your loved ones to follow your wishes.