When dealing with a loved one’s cremation service in Bellingham, WA., expenses is something you will undoubtedly have to address. Whether it’s for the cremation or if you choose to host a memorial service, the expense can add up quickly. Unless your loved one planned ahead and set money aside, these expenses may put you in a bind.

The good news is that, with a little planning and intention, it is very possible to have a beautiful memorial service on a limited budget. Paying attention to certain items and getting a little creative can save you from getting over you head with debt for the service.

First, Set Your Budget

Before you do anything else, sit down and decide what is a realistic, feasible budget that you can feel comfortable with. The next thing to do it to stick with it! It is very easy and understandable to want to give your loved one the best, most expensive service possible, but remember that it’s not about the decorations or the actual space. It’s about the friends, the family and coming together to honor the deceased.

Set your budget and then work from that budget.

Decide on the Venue

One thing to remember about the service is that you can hold it wherever you wish. It doesn’t have to be at an expensive venue hall. It could be at a local park, a room in a restaurant, or some other special place that your loved one enjoyed.

You can even hold it at your house or the house of a friend or family member. Many housing communities also have clubhouses and large banquet rooms that are available to their community.

Have a Potluck

This is another area where you can save big. Catering an event is expensive. Instead, let the guests bring a dish. Many guests may actually enjoy this because they can feel as if they are more of a part of the service rather than just attending.

If you still rather have it catered, you could opt for a more casual menu with appetizers and snacks rather than a large sit-down lunch or dinner.

Make Your Own Memorial Gifts

If you are planning on giving the guests memorial gifts, consider making them yourself. If you are not very crafty, enlist the help of a friend or family member to help. As with the potluck, many people will enjoy helping make these gifts because it gives them a chance to be more involved.

Final Thoughts

While it is very easy to get carried away when planning a memorial service for your loved one, you want to make sure it’s not something you regret later. In your time of grief you will most likely be making decisions based on emotions and not logic. That’s why it is so important to set your budget and stick with it.

Remember that after your loved one’s cremation service in Bellingham, WA., the service isn’t about how fancy or expensive it can be. It’s about coming together with friends and family and honoring the life of the deceased. If you need more ideas on honoring your loved one, contact Moles Farewell Tributes & Crematory and let their friendly and knowledgeable staff answer any questions you may have.