Practical advice

Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never done it before. It can be hard to find the information you need to make decisions that are right for you.

We’ve collected some practical advice to help you. It covers situations you may face before someone dies, planning for the funeral itself and sources of support after the funeral is over.

We know it’s sometimes easier to talk. So, if you have any questions about funerals that are not covered here, or want to chat through anything with one of our team, we’d love to hear from you. Just pick up the phone, drop us an email or pop into our HQ in Lambeth cemetery or our shop on Upper Richmond Road West in Sheen. Contact us.

A funeral director should always allow you to take your time, ask questions and not make you feel rushed or pressured.

You can also watch short videos in response to frequently asked questions about funerals on our YouTube channel.

Planning ahead

How to talk about your funeral wishes

How to plan your own funeral

How to talk about funerals: a resource for carers

How to get an estimate for funeral costs

When someone dies

How to care for someone who has died at home

What happens at a home collection

How to do death admin

A natural approach to death: why you don’t need to embalm

What happens when you visit someone at Poppy’s

Planning the funeral

How to do more for yourself when planning a funeral

How to plan an eco-friendly funeral

How to find help in paying for a funeral

How to have a lower cost funeral

What is a natural burial?

What are simple cremations and direct cremations?

How to choose a funeral celebrant

How to choose a crematorium

How to choose flowers for a funeral

How to create a funeral order of service

How to personalise a funeral

Finding an alternative venue

Funerals for babies and children: Your questions answered

How to bring someone home before the funeral

After the funeral

Seven things you need to know about keeping or scattering ashes

Grief and bereavement resources

To read more ‘how to’ guides, advice and guidance, visit our Talking Death blog or sign up for regular email updates from Poppy's.