When you book a crematorium service, you can celebrate the life of a loved one in any way that you see fit – as long as it’s not illegal or dangerous. If for example you wanted to re-arrange the chapel, bring pets to the service, or play non-stop music – Thornhill Crematorium (and others in the Cardiff area) can accommodate your wishes.
The crematorium also provides the technical capabilities to deliver audio-visual tributes and webcast the entire service to people that cannot be present on the day so it is increasingly popular with geographically dispersed families.
For those seeking an alternative to the crematorium – natural burial and other service sites are available.
Whilst there is no right or wrong format for a humanist funeral as its entirely down to the personal wishes of your loved one, this is a useful starting point…
Often, guests will leave the service and gather again at an alternative venue for the ‘wake’ or ‘reception’ to carry on remembering and sharing stories about the the dearly departed.
Humanist funerals do not often include funeral hymns or prayers, though readings from loved ones are still popular. The music and readings you choose do not need to be funeral-themed (or even sad). They can simply include your loved one’s favourites. If you are looking for inspiration, tell us about your loved one’s likes and dislikes and we’ll happily suggest a repertoire of songs for your consideration, as well as a library of readings that might be of interest to you.
Alternatively, this recent article from Stylist magazine suggests some popular choices >