Losing someone special is like getting hit by a tsunami of sadness, right? Suddenly, you’re supposed to dive into planning a funeral, and honestly, that can feel like trying to climb Mount Everest in flip-flops. But here’s a little guide to help you through it, keeping things as simple and heartfelt as possible.

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Feeling All the Feels

First off, it’s totally okay to be a mess right now. Grief is weird—it comes in waves, and sometimes it’s a tsunami, other times it’s more like paddling in a puddle. If you need to cry, go for it. Need to laugh? That’s okay too. Your emotions are your own, and there’s no wrong way to feel.

Kickstarting the Planning

If your loved one left notes about their funeral wishes, that’s your treasure map. If not, no worries. Think about what they loved, what made them them, and start there. Maybe they were all about simplicity, or perhaps they loved a bit of flair.

Calling in the Pros

This is where Academy Funeral Services can be a game-changer. They’re the folks who can take the heavy lifting off your shoulders, guiding you through everything from paperwork to picking the perfect flowers. They’re pros at this, so lean on them.

Deciding the Details

So many choices, right? Burial or cremation? Church, beach, or somewhere totally out of left field? And who’s going to speak? This part can be tough, but it’s also a chance to make the funeral truly reflective of the person you’re all there to remember.

Budget Talks

Let’s talk money because funerals can cost a pretty penny. Set a budget and be upfront about it. There’s no shame in being mindful of your wallet. Academy Funeral Services, or any good funeral service, will help you find options that fit.

Gather Your Squad

You’re not alone in this. Friends, family, neighbors—people generally want to help, so let them. Even if it’s just someone picking up sandwiches for the wake, every little bit helps.

Personal Touches

This is where you can get creative. Was your loved one a music fanatic? A book lover? Think of ways to weave their passions into the day. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate their life and share what they loved with others.

Take Care of You

In the midst of all this, don’t forget about yourself. Eat, sleep, take breaks. Grief is exhausting, physically and emotionally. Be kind to yourself.

The Big Day

When the funeral day arrives, just breathe. It’s a day for goodbyes, tears, laughter, and memories. Let it all out. Everyone’s in this together, sharing in the love for the person you’ve all lost.

Moving Onward

After the funeral, give yourself space to grieve, heal, and eventually find your new normal. There’s no rush, no timeline. Keep reaching out for support when you need it, and remember, it’s okay to find joy again.

So, there you have it—a little guide to help you navigate planning a funeral while you’re swimming through your grief. Remember, it’s all about honoring your loved one in a way that feels right to you. And remember, places like Academy Funeral Services are there to help lighten the load. Hang in there.

This is a contributed post.