When it comes time to make funeral arrangements, you and your family may wish to consider something slightly different. Funerals have traditionally been especially somber occasions. They don’t necessarily have to be. A more positive and celebratory tone is certainly an option. If you or someone you know is looking for funeral homes in or near Mt Pleasant, SC, you should know that there’s a solution in your area prepared to discuss funeral options like these. Every family is different. Each one has unique wishes and needs. Each one will have its own set of expectations. That’s perfectly understandable, and McAlister-Smith Funeral & Cremation is ready to work with your family regardless of its needs. That means we can provide substantial support whether the funeral in question is more traditional, more celebratory, or somewhere in between. We can help.

Families are increasingly relying upon funeral services as a way to celebrate the life of a loved one in a more positive fashion. Sometimes this is simply most consistent with the wishes of their loved one. That obviously has to be your first consideration. What did your loved one want when it came to a funeral? Did he or she have strong preferences about that funeral? This should be your guiding principle when it comes to making funeral plans. Ideally, you and your loved one have spent some time discussing these things in person. Written wishes are always a good idea, but so is a more in-depth conversation. If possible, you may even wish to work with a funeral home well in advance. This will make it easier when the time comes and avoid any unnecessary last-minute stress for your family.

Why a celebration of life? The big idea is to focus on happier things. This might mean a video or photographic presentation that emphasizes accomplishments and happier times. It might mean eulogies that keep the focus on those same things. It might influence the kind of music that is played or the kind of readings that are included. It may even affect things like the attire worn at the funeral. The point is that not all funerals are equal. They don’t have to be as somber and toned down as you might have expected. Of course, there is nothing wrong with a more traditional funeral. But you should know your options. And you should know that it is always okay to plan something more celebratory or include elements that seem more celebratory in scope. These are both acceptable and increasingly popular solutions.

When planning a funeral, you should never feel too boxed in. And nor should you feel as though the planning is happening without your input taking center stage. Our job is to relieve you of any additional burdens. But we should still take your wishes into account and provide you the opportunity to remain involved as much as you would like. That’s essential.

If you are interested in funeral homes in the Mt Pleasant, SC, area, consider reaching out to McAlister-Smith Funeral & Cremation. Whether you wish to plan something more traditional or more celebratory, we are ready to work with you and be by your side throughout the process. We know your family isn’t like every other family. And we’re ready to listen.