Guidance for Arranging a Meaningful Service
Arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially during a difficult time. At Anthony Barton Independent Family Funeral Services, we guide families through each step with care, compassion, and clear advice.
Below are some of the key decisions you may wish to consider within your funeral plans. Our team will help you explore every option and create a service that truly reflects your loved one’s life.
Funeral Plans: Operative Decisions
Burial or Cremation
One of the first funeral plans to make is whether the service will be a burial or cremation. Each option offers different choices for the ceremony, location, and final resting place. We will explain everything clearly so you can make the decision that feels right for your family.
Many families choose for the funeral procession to leave from a family home, while others may prefer a church, chapel of rest, or another meaningful location. We will arrange the procession in a respectful and dignified manner.
Families may choose for their loved one to rest at:
Our Chapel of Rest
A church
Their home
This allows family and friends the opportunity to spend quiet time saying goodbye if they wish.
The service itself can take place in a variety of locations, including:
A church
A crematorium chapel
A Masonic hall
Another venue that holds special meaning
We will coordinate all arrangements to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Extra Arrangements for Funeral Services
We offer a range of funeral vehicles for family and close friends, including traditional limousines and a wheelchair-accessible vehicle if required.
Funerals can be tailored to reflect your loved one’s beliefs and wishes. Services may be led by:
A vicar or priest
A professional celebrant
A family member or friend
Another person chosen by the family
Both religious and non-religious ceremonies can be arranged.
The coffin may be carried into the chapel or church by pallbearers, or respectfully brought in on a bier. Families can decide which feels most appropriate.
After the funeral service, many families choose to gather together for a wake or reception to share memories and support one another. We can offer guidance on suitable venues if required.
Pallbearers may be:
Family members or close friends
Our professional funeral staff
We will guide you through this choice if you are unsure.
There are several ways to let people know about the funeral, including:
Word of mouth
Social media tribute pages
Newspaper announcements
We can assist with preparing notices if required.
Cosmetic Arrangements, Service Plans and Keepsakes
Choosing a coffin, casket, or urn is an important part of personalising a funeral. We offer a carefully selected range of options to suit different preferences, styles, and budgets.
Your loved one can be dressed in their own clothing or pyjamas, or we can provide one of our traditional satin gowns. Our team will care for them with the utmost dignity and respect.
Music can play a powerful role in celebrating a life. Families often choose:
Favourite songs
Traditional hymns
Instrumental music
Personal recordings
We will ensure all music is arranged for the service.
Many families choose floral tributes to honour their loved one. Alternatively, you may prefer:
Silk floral tributes
Donations to a chosen charity
A combination of both.
Some families choose to keep a personal remembrance, such as:
A lock of hair
These can provide a comforting and lasting memory.
We can arrange personalised funeral stationery, including:
Orders of Service
Bookmarks
Memory cards
Memory Pins
These provide a lasting keepsake for family and friends attending the service.
Need help arranging a funeral?
Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way.