What Will Your Coffin Look Like?

It’s a confronting thought for many of us, but I’ve seen a trend over the past couple of years that I think we all really need to be aware of when planning a loved one ’ s final farewell

Did you know you can personalise a coffin by choosing the colour, the artwork and the messaging to make it a relevant reflection of your loved one ’ s personality? (or your own, if you are a forward planner!)

At recent life celebrations, I’ve seen coffins designed with a favourite sports team for a fan who was football obsessed, and a beverage of choice for a fan who wanted everyone to share a final toast, a biscuit themed coffin for a loved one who was a prankster at heart and had a passion for Monte Carlo bickies, and even a hand painted coffin decorated by all the grandchildren.

These ideas help make to make a funeral feel more relevant, they resonate, and it's not so sad. There's so much sad that can’t be avoided during these times, you don't have to make it sadder than it already is. The trend towards coffins that make a statement allows families to take the opportunity to reflect the person that they're saying farewell to and acknowledge the things that they'll remember about them and treasure those memories.

Of course, the proceedings are still respectful but I guess the rules are, there really aren't any rules Beyond the aesthetic design, many families also choose unique rituals. It's not unusual to have an opportunity during a service for people to come forward and make a handprint on a coffin or to grab a Sharpie an write a message on them

I watched the guests’ reactions and for guests who were unaware of the unconventional proceedings I see them finding comfort in the surprise. I think they view it almost with a little bit of relief. They feel "Oh, it's OK to smile, it's OK to participate in this, and it's OK to remember a person well’. It eases some of the tension that always associates sad events A lot of times when people come to a funeral service, they just sit there but there's lots more opportunity to be part of what's going on and it's not scary.

So what’s your plan? How will your loved ones say farewell in the way you would've liked it- and not just over tears?

If you have questions or ideas, I’d love to chat any time….

Leanne