It is not mandatory that a funeral director is present for an interment. However, we would encourage our help and guidance. When we assist families with an interment, we can ensure that the cemetery has the proper paperwork, organize the cars and family members so they know where to [...]
If someone dies without a last will and testament, funeral establishments must follow a specific order in regard to the next of kin who would be in charge of completing funeral arrangements. This order is as follows: 1) Spouse, including common law spouse 2) Adult children 3) Parents 4) Adult [...]
We would always encourage people to bring a friend or another family member to make funeral arrangements. This way, the information being shared is being heard by more than one person, the individual will feel supported when making their decisions, and they might even think of additional questions to ask. The additional [...]
The short answer to this is, yes! However, there are a number of aspects to consider prior to transferring arrangements from another establishment. It is important to identify how your pre-arrangement funds were invested to ensure there is not a great financial loss if you were to cancel or [...]
Many people are choosing to pre-arrange to make things easier on their family for when they pass away. While there are a number of benefits to pre-paying, you don’t have to pre-pay to pre-arrange. Pre-arranging involves our funeral professionals collecting information and recording your wishes. Ultimately, this reduces the [...]
We encourage families to participate as much or as little as they want depending on what they are comfortable with. Some families wish to be as hands on and involved as possible, which can include; helping with the removal from their family's home, bathing or dressing their loved one, acting [...]
At Essentials we have a quiet space that allows for friends and family to say a final goodbye to their loved one prior to cremation or burial. If a family member is not able to come in for a final goodbye, we always invite them to take some time [...]
Gatherings are not mandatory, but oftentimes families are comforted by being surrounded by their family and friends in their time of loss. These gatherings don't have to be held in a traditional funeral home. They can take place in a private residence, restaurant, hall, legion, winery, outdoor space, etc. [...]
Selecting the right officiant is important. Officiants can have a religious affiliation, be non-denominational or certified as a funeral celebrant. The ceremony should be a reflection of the person who passed away. A funeral celebrant is an individual who can prepare a written service based on some one's life [...]
Regardless of the time, we would encourage you to call us so we can help give you guidance and support. If a call is placed to us outside of our office hours, our phones are sent to an after hours answering service. They will collect your contact information and [...]