Practical Guides — Funeral Guides | NAFD Funeral Directory

Guides

Practical Guides

Practical advice on what to say, wear, and do at funerals.

Sympathy Messages: What to Say When Someone Dies (2026)

Sympathy Messages: What to Say When Someone Dies (2026)

Finding the right words when someone dies is never easy. Our compassionate guide offers 30+ real examples of sympathy messages for cards, texts, and in-person conversations — for every relationship and situation.

9 min read

Funeral Poems & Readings: 30 Beautiful Choices for a Service

Funeral Poems & Readings: 30 Beautiful Choices for a Service

A curated collection of 30 funeral poems and readings for every faith and situation — from classic verses to modern humanist words — with full texts and guidance on choosing the right reading.

13 min read

Most Popular Funeral Songs in the UK: Complete Guide 2026

Most Popular Funeral Songs in the UK: Complete Guide 2026

From Frank Sinatra to Ed Sheeran, discover the most popular funeral songs chosen by UK families — plus practical advice on how to arrange music, live vs recorded options, and what to expect at different service types.

19 min read

What to Write on Funeral Flowers: Messages & Etiquette

What to Write on Funeral Flowers: Messages & Etiquette

Finding the right words for funeral flower cards can feel overwhelming. Our compassionate guide offers heartfelt message examples for every relationship, plus etiquette advice to help you honour a loved one beautifully.

8 min read

Funeral Flowers: Types, Meanings & How to Choose (2026 Guide)

Funeral Flowers: Types, Meanings & How to Choose (2026 Guide)

From wreaths and casket sprays to simple posies, this compassionate guide explains every type of funeral flower arrangement, what different blooms mean, and how to choose flowers that truly honour your loved one.

9 min read

How to Write a Death Notice or Obituary | NAFD Guide 2026

How to Write a Death Notice or Obituary | NAFD Guide 2026

Learn the difference between a death notice and an obituary, what to include, where to publish, and how much it costs — with templates and practical advice for UK families.

8 min read

Donations Instead of Flowers: How to Arrange Funeral Donations

Donations Instead of Flowers: How to Arrange Funeral Donations

Choosing donations instead of flowers is a meaningful way to honour a loved one's memory. This guide explains how to word the request, set up a charity collection, and thank donors.

8 min read

Organ Donation and Funerals: What Families Need to Know

Organ Donation and Funerals: What Families Need to Know

Worried about how organ donation might affect funeral arrangements? We explain the impact on timing, how the body is treated, UK opt-out law, and how to support your family through this important decision.

8 min read

Funeral Thank You Cards: What to Write & When to Send

Funeral Thank You Cards: What to Write & When to Send

Sending thank you cards after a funeral is a thoughtful way to honour those who showed kindness. Our compassionate guide covers who to thank, what to write, and when to send them.

8 min read

Winter Funerals: Practical Tips for Cold Weather Services

Winter Funerals: Practical Tips for Cold Weather Services

Planning a funeral in winter brings unique challenges, from icy gravesides to shorter daylight hours. Our practical guide helps families and guests prepare with dignity and comfort.

8 min read

Attending a Funeral for the First Time: What to Expect

Attending a Funeral for the First Time: What to Expect

Never been to a funeral before? This compassionate, practical guide walks you through everything — from what to wear and where to sit, to what happens at the wake and how to support the family.

9 min read

Browse other categories