What is an Arrangement?

Meeting with a funeral director to make arrangements for a loved one can feel overwhelming, especially if you've never been through the process before. Knowing what to expect can help ease some of the uncertainty. While every funeral director has their own approach, the overall goal is always the same—to gather the information needed to honor your loved one and create a meaningful service that reflects their life.



1. We'll Guide You Every Step of the Way

Each funeral director has a slightly different style, but every arrangement conference is centered around listening to your family's wishes and helping you plan a service that celebrates your loved one's life. We will guide you through each step at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

2. Completing the Necessary Paperwork

We'll provide a folder containing all of the documents that need to be completed. Your funeral director will review each form with you, explain what is needed, and answer any questions you have along the way. If at any point you need to take a break, that's perfectly okay.

3. Gathering Information for the Death Certificate

We'll collect the information required for the death certificate and prepare a draft for your review. This allows you to verify that all names, dates, and other details are correct before signing the document.

4. Writing the Obituary

Together, we'll discuss whether you would like to publish an obituary and where you'd like it to appear. Your obituary can be as simple or as detailed as you wish. You may provide information for your funeral director to write it, or you and your family may choose to write it yourselves.

5. Taking the Time You Need

Arrangement conferences often last several hours because every family and every situation is unique. Please don't feel rushed or worry that you're taking too much time. Our priority is making sure you feel comfortable, informed, and confident in every decision you make.

6. Reviewing Vital Statistics and Service Details

One of the forms you'll complete is called the Vital Statistics form. This includes information such as your loved one's full name, parents' names, date of birth, date of death, Social Security number, address, and other details needed for legal documentation. We'll also discuss the type of service you would like to have and review a general timeline for the events.

7. Discussing Service Options and Costs

You'll receive a General Price List outlining the services we offer and their associated costs. We believe in being transparent and will explain each option so you can make informed decisions. Every service can be personalized to reflect your loved one's life, traditions, and your family's wishes.

8. Choosing a Casket, Urn, and Personalization

We'll invite you into our selection room to view our caskets, urns, and personalization options. Before we begin, you'll receive a price list so you know what to expect. If you don't find exactly what you're looking for, we'll gladly show you additional options through our catalogs and online selections.

9. Finalizing the Details

Throughout the meeting, your funeral director may step out briefly to prepare documents, print updated paperwork, or complete other necessary arrangements. This is a normal part of the process and helps ensure everything is accurate before moving forward.

10. Touring the Funeral Home

You'll have the opportunity to tour the funeral home and see the areas where visitations, funeral services, or receptions may be held. This can help you visualize how the services will take place and answer any questions you may have.

11. Reviewing Everything Together

Before your arrangement conference concludes, we'll review all of the decisions that have been made to ensure everything is correct. We encourage you to ask any remaining questions, whether they're about something we've discussed or something that's still on your mind.

Our goal is to make this process as clear and comforting as possible. We understand that planning a funeral comes during one of life's most difficult moments, and we are honored to walk alongside you with compassion, patience, and care every step of the way.