Tips for Planning an Outdoor Funeral During Winter
Winter is a challenging season for many of us and losing a loved one can make the season that much harder to get through. But if your loved one wanted an outdoor funeral service, you need to respect their wishes.
Although it might seem difficult, an outdoor winter funeral can be a beautiful experience if you plan it right. Here are some tips for planning an outdoor funeral during winter.
Look Up the Weather Before You Head Outside and Dress Accordingly
When planning an outdoor winter funeral, your primary concern will be the weather on the day of the ceremony. This is especially important if your ceremony will take place in an area that typically sees harsh winter weather. Before you head outside, check the weather and dress accordingly so you’re comfortable during the funeral.
One of the best tips for planning a cremation memorial service during winter is to research wind patterns before you spread someone’s ashes. This will also help you decide what to wear for the event. You can decide between bulkier cold-weather gear or lighter garments.
Keep Your Elderly Attendees Safe
Outdoor funerals are tougher on the elderly regardless of the season. Winter is the most challenging season of all, so you’ll want to keep loved ones safe and comfortable during the ceremony.
If there’s shelter nearby, give them space to warm up there. Also, with all the snow and ice on the ground, they might need some assistance with crossing paths. You might want to bring blankets and hand warmers, so they don’t get too cold while the funeral takes place.
Simplicity Is Key
No matter how much love you want to show to the deceased, if the weather is unbearable, you can keep the service simple. Keep the service’s length short and sweet, and encourage remembrance to take place at the reception.
When the weather is uncooperative, shorten your eulogy to the bare essentials and share the full speech on social media. In addition, printing the funeral poem in the program might help you save time spent in the cold. You can read this section indoors if you’d like.
Overall, funerals aren’t easy to get through, especially when they take place outside in the cold. However, if you follow these tips for planning an outdoor funeral during winter, attendees should be quite comfortable and ready to pay their respects.