Coffins come in various sizes and are mostly made from a variety of woods. Besides for appearances, there’s little difference between the options. The funeral director will ask you right away to select the coffin, but you may also order one online.  In many areas, a shroud is the minimum required to cover the body. Be aware of religious customs. In a Muslim funeral, for example, the deceased is often wrapped in a shroud. Visit the probate court clerk's office where the deceased  lived to see if they made a will. They may have left instructions in it that you can use to make arranging the funeral easier. Also consider who the deceased was and use your memories to give them a funeral they’d be proud of.  You aren’t required to follow the wishes written in the will, but honoring those requests can make for a positive memorialization. Think of what the deceased said to you in the past. They might have mentioned what they wanted in a funeral. For example, if you knew they disliked traditional funerals, you might want something outdoors with happy music. Many funerals take place in a funeral home. This is the simplest option, but you may also choose to hold it at the gravesite or in a house of worship. You’ll need to contact the location to set up a day and time, then communicate with the funeral director to transport the deceased’s body there. Research how different faiths handle funeral rites when selecting a religious site. The leaders of the church, synagogue, or mosque can answer any questions you have. Sometimes special events such as wakes, church services, or family dinners are part of the funeral process. Choose events that honor the deceased and also help guests grieve and support one another. Culture and religion play a large part in this. For example, some rites may include prayers or a church service before the funeral and dinner after the funeral. Separate hours may be set aside for friends and loved ones to visit the deceased. Viewings and wakes happen before the funeral service. You’ll need to reserve this time with the funeral home or place of worship where the funeral is meant to be held. Contact local newspapers and websites to announce the plans in the obituary. Also contact the deceased’s place of worship, if they had one, to get the funeral details announced or printed in the bulletin there. The important part is to make sure everyone knows about the passing and funeral. Make sure you spread the word to anyone you want at the funeral. Call, write letters, or send messages on social media as necessary. Funeral homes and mortuary services provide a hearse to carry the body to cemetery or crematorium for a fee. You may also book cars to transport guests in a funeral procession. The costs for this add up, so decide whether or not you’d rather have everyone make their own way to the burial ground. In addition to being costly, sitting in a strange, dark car may be a very strange and upsetting experience for grieving guests.
Pick a coffin that fits the funeral budget. Use the deceased’s wishes to plan the funeral. Decide where the funeral will take place. Set up wakes or other events scheduled around the funeral. Schedule a viewing time if desired. Print press releases detailing the funeral plans. Arrange transportation to the burial ground.