When we talk about the end of life, many people don’t want to think about it at all … or, if they do, they have no idea how to start planning.

While the topic of death can seem overwhelming, it is an inevitable part of the circle of life. We cannot predict when death may come, but we can prepare ourselves — and our families — for when that day arrives. Part of this involves preplanning funeral or memorial services in advance.

At Cypress Lawn, we cherish the ability to celebrate life in all forms. We believe every person on this earth has a story to tell, and our caring team of professionals is here for families to guide them through the process of planning an unforgettable final farewell.

In this blog, we’re sharing just a few of the many options we have available at Cypress Lawn to celebrate life. We hope this will help you and your family as you consider preplanning your arrangements.

What Type of Service Would You Like to Have?

Planning a funeral or memorial service can vary greatly depending on the preferences of those who are planning it. While some Bay Area families may prefer a traditional religious service in a more formal setting, such as one of our historic chapels, there are many other options available. Many families who do not have a religious affiliation prefer to have a Celebrant lead the service, which incorporates secular ceremony as part of a unique way to remember. Others may choose to have a small, informal gathering as they scatter their loved one’s ashes in a special place. The options are limitless, but you need to first decide what type of service you want to have.

What Is Important to Your Family?

The Bay Area is a melting pot of religious and cultural traditions, and our care team has decades of experience helping families plan a service that aligns with their desires and needs. However, the needs of every family differ based on what they value. If your loved one was religious, are there particular Bible verses that he or she held dear? Or would you rather have a service that focuses on telling the story of your loved one’s life with personalized elements, such as their favorite gardening tools or awards? There are so many ways to honor a life, but it will look different depending on what your family believes is most important.

How Do You Want to Tell the Story of a Life?

Just like everything else in the world, funerals and memorial services have changed drastically over the last few years. Many families tell us that they would prefer to focus on celebrating the life of their loved one — perhaps a more lighthearted occasion with drinks (maybe even a cocktail) and food. Others prefer to have a more formal, somber event.

No matter what your family prefers, our team at Cypress Lawn is ready to help you in any way that we can — whether you need us now or in the years to come. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information about planning a service or with any questions you may have.