Research amongst funeral directors shows that new trends are emerging regarding funeral planning.
Some became popular due to necessity – such as the increased use of video links during the pandemic. Safety measures limited the number of people who could attend a funeral. Video links enabled people who couldn’t attend in person to view the service online. This trend has remained although the restriction on numbers has been lifted.
Other trends embrace the changing ways in which we communicate – such as inviting people to attend a funeral via social media.
The key most influential trends noted by funeral directors in 2022 were:
- Online streaming – while safety restrictions have been removed 37% of funerals are streamed live via website links band video apps.
- Social media funeral invitations are used by 28% of people planning funerals.
- Music – a wider variety of music types are played at funerals. This is noted by 21% of funeral directors.
- Colourful clothing is increasingly worn to funerals according to 13% of funeral directors.
- 6% of research participants have seen an increase in the number of funerals being videoed.
- Personalised funerals – a 6% increase in the demand for personalised coffins has been noted, along with a 4% increase in bespoke requests personalised to the deceased.
Almost half of funerals are now planned as a celebration of life (49% – Sunlife research). Perhaps in tune with a celebratory theme, 18% of those organising funerals encourage something unusual or different to be involved with the funeral. This includes bright-coloured clothing, light-hearted speeches and unusual music, for example.
The most played funeral song during 2022 was “Abide With Me” – although when asked what song they would like to be played at their funeral, the most popular song was “Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum.
Have you thought about what music you would like played at your funeral? It’s one of the easiest ways of adding a personal touch to your service. Let your loved ones know your choice of songs – and ask them about theirs. This is a more light-hearted way of starting a discussion about loved ones’ funeral wishes – or telling someone what you would like for your own funeral.
It’s never too early to make plans, offering peace of mind to you and your loved ones. If you would like to discuss funeral arrangements and options, please talk to the friendly team at Austin’s family funeral directors.
