The passing of loved ones is always a difficult time, but when you add asking for donations to the mix, it can seem like an impossible task. However, with proper funeral etiquette, you can ask for donations and receive them in a painless manner. Believe it or not, asking for funeral donations instead of flowers is not an uncommon request. For many, the cost of a funeral can be debilitating. Because of this, any financial reprieve can help. Unsure how to ask for donations? We have some funeral etiquette tips that can make this sometimes uncomfortable process easier.
Funeral Etiquette Tips: Collecting Donations
Flowers are beautiful, but when funeral costs become too expensive for a family to finance, donations are more helpful to the deceased’s surviving loved ones. If you are hesitant to ask for funeral donations, don’t be. With the right funeral etiquette, family and friends will welcome the opportunity to help you. So, what funeral etiquette do you use when asking for funeral donations?
Funeral Etiquette Pointer #1 - Include your request in the funeral announcement.
Your first step of funeral etiquette should be making a funeral announcement with a brief but to-the-point message about funeral donations. A simple note, such as “The family is accepting funeral donations in place of flowers,” is a polite and acceptable addition to an obituary. Furthermore, this same message can be communicated by email, phone, or in person to close family and friends.
Funeral Etiquette Pointer #2 - Choose somewhere for the funeral donations to be sent.
Although choosing a location for the money to be sent may be the last thing on your radar, it is crucial that you make this consideration prior to sending a funeral announcement. Chances are your loved ones want to help; however, they will need a firm idea of where to send any donations before they can assist your family.
Funeral Etiquette Pointer #3 - Send a Thank You Note.
Although it can be difficult, sending a thank you note is proper funeral etiquette. These notes do not need to be rushed. Sometime after the funeral, send a simple note of thanks with a message as brief as “Our family thanks you for your donation during this difficult time.” In addition, making an announcement of thanks at the visitation or funeral is also polite.
When it comes to the acquisition of funeral donations, funeral etiquette is essential. Though these times can be trying, funeral etiquette is still important. Your grace will encourage family and friends to unite, helping you through this difficult time.
Have you lost a loved one? For information about our end-of-life services, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Winter Park, Florida.
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