Funeral Planning Guides & Advice | Expert UK Guidance | NAFD

Funeral Guides & Advice

Expert guidance to help you through every aspect of funeral planning, from the National Association of Funeral Directors.

All Funeral Planning Planning a Funeral Costs & Finance Funeral Costs Types of Funeral Types of Funeral After a Funeral Bereavement & Support Funeral Etiquette Practical Guides Legal & Admin Choosing a Funeral Director Comparing Funeral Directors Funeral Plans Cultural & Religious Funerals After the Funeral Estate & Probate
Embalming: What It Is, Why It's Done & Is It Necessary?
Planning a Funeral 8 min read

Embalming: What It Is, Why It's Done & Is It Necessary?

Embalming is often misunderstood — and rarely compulsory. This compassionate guide explains what embalming involves, when it may be recommended, its costs, religious considerations, and your right to decline.

Live Streaming a Funeral: How to Include Everyone Who Matters
Planning a Funeral 16 min read

Live Streaming a Funeral: How to Include Everyone Who Matters

A complete guide to live streaming a funeral in the UK — covering costs, platforms, hybrid formats, recordings, etiquette for remote mourners, and how to arrange everything through your funeral director.

Arranging a Funeral for Someone with No Family | NAFD Guide
Planning a Funeral 8 min read

Arranging a Funeral for Someone with No Family | NAFD Guide

When someone dies with no family or next of kin, their funeral still matters. This compassionate guide explains who can arrange it, how it's funded, and how communities can come together to ensure no one is buried alone.

What Is a Wake? Planning a Gathering After the Funeral
Planning a Funeral 9 min read

What Is a Wake? Planning a Gathering After the Funeral

A wake is a gathering of family and friends after a funeral to share memories and support one another. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning one, from venues to catering and costs.

Baby Funerals & Stillbirth: A Guide for Bereaved Parents
Planning a Funeral 8 min read

Baby Funerals & Stillbirth: A Guide for Bereaved Parents

A compassionate, practical guide for parents facing the loss of a baby or stillbirth — covering funeral options, costs, legal steps, memory-making and where to find support.

How to Create a Funeral Order of Service | NAFD Guide
Planning a Funeral 7 min read

How to Create a Funeral Order of Service | NAFD Guide

A step-by-step guide to creating a meaningful funeral order of service — covering what to include, design tips, printing options, and templates for both religious and non-religious services.

Choosing a Coffin or Casket: Materials, Costs & Options UK
Planning a Funeral 14 min read

Choosing a Coffin or Casket: Materials, Costs & Options UK

Everything you need to know about choosing a coffin or casket in the UK — from cardboard to solid oak, eco-friendly options, personalisation, and what you can expect to pay in 2026.

Funeral Transport: From Traditional Hearses to Alternative Options
Planning a Funeral 8 min read

Funeral Transport: From Traditional Hearses to Alternative Options

From classic funeral hearses to horse-drawn carriages and motorcycle hearses, discover every funeral transport option available in the UK — with costs, etiquette advice, and tips for choosing what's right for your loved one.

Can You Arrange a Funeral Without a Funeral Director? (2026 Guide)
Planning a Funeral 8 min read

Can You Arrange a Funeral Without a Funeral Director? (2026 Guide)

Yes, it's legal to arrange a funeral yourself in the UK — but it's a significant undertaking. This guide explains exactly what's involved, when it makes sense, and when professional support is worth it.

How to Arrange a Funeral: A Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Planning a Funeral 8 min read

How to Arrange a Funeral: A Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. This step-by-step guide walks you through every stage of the process, from the first call to the final farewell.

What to Do When Someone Dies at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Planning a Funeral 8 min read

What to Do When Someone Dies at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether a death at home was expected or unexpected, knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming. This calm, practical guide walks you through every step — from the first phone call to arranging the funeral.