To provide immediate guidance and step-by-step information for families in Markham and Richmond Hill who have just experienced a loss and need to arrange funeral services now. Focuses on the practical coordination required shortly after a death.
"No funeral!?" That's the reaction many people have when a loved one tells them their wishes, or when they're told there will be no service for dearly departed friend or family member. It can be hard to believe that someone wouldn't want this time-honoured tradition. While we at Chapel Ridge…
After someone has died you might hear people use the term wake and you might be wondering what it means. You might assume this term is interchangeable with "reception" or "viewing", and sometimes people use it like that. However, the a wake is a tradition with a very specific meaning…
When it comes to funeral attire, there are many opinions out there. There are traditionalists who believe that you need to wear black or navy suits or simple, conservative dresses. There are also people who believe that colour is okay - framing it as a celebration of life rather than…
Thank you cards are a way to show gratitude towards friends and family who are there for you or show generosity in some way. After a death, many of your loved ones will do what they can to be there for you. This could be bringing over meals so you…
Writing an obituary can be a painful, yet cathartic experience. It's an opportunity to celebrate a life while also informing friends and neighbours of a loved ones passing. They also provide details on how you can honour the dead - by attending a visitation and funeral or by sending flowers…
When planning a service or memorial, there are many choices to make, such as funeral music, flowers and readings. Choosing music can tricky. You want to make sure it's appropriate, while staying true to the deceased. This post isn't going to be about hymns or instrumentals - that could be…
Earlier this month there was a trending story about a women's unique obituary. When first reported, it was said she wrote the incredibly humourous obituary herself, but it was later corrected that it was her children who penned it. Previously, we posted a blog about how to write a traditional…
If you're having a traditional service, one of the decisions you will need to make is what funeral flower arrangements to order. While loved ones will likely send floral arrangements to express sympathy, it's common for the family of the deceased to order some larger pieces as decor. If you…
When tasked with writing an obituary - a death notice typically published in the local newspaper and online - it can be difficult to find the words. You want to be provide the right information while showing your love and appreciation for the deceased loved one. If you're unsure where…
Whether expected or sudden, when someone close to you dies it can be extremely upsetting. Often in the moments after are a blur, as emotions run high - which can be paralyzing. This is why it's important to know what to do immediately after the death has occurred. Have the…
