Planning a Graveside Service
When is the best time for the graveside service?
- If a funeral service is planned, the casket will be present, so the graveside service and burial will be held after the funeral. If the graveside service is scheduled immediately following the funeral, those attending can join the procession to the cemetery.
- The graveside service can also be held the day after, or several days following the funeral. However, it is typical to schedule the burial and graveside service close to the time of the funeral service.
- If a memorial service or celebration of life is planned, it is appropriate to schedule the graveside service the day before, earlier in the day, or even after the service. The casket is not present at a memorial service or celebration of life, so it is not typical to hold the graveside service immediately following a service of this type.
- A graveside service can take the place of a traditional indoor service, but many families prefer to have both.
Here are some things you’ll need to decide on as you plan a graveside service:
- Purchase the appropriate space at a cemetery.
- The date for the graveside service. Your Funeral Director will make arrangements for the opening and closing of the grave site.
- Who will officiate, if music will be played and what type, and the information you will want to share
- If you want the guest book present at the graveside service, ask the Funeral Director to arrange with the cemetery for a small table
Designing the monument or grave marker:
Many cemeteries understand that it takes some time for families to design their loved one’s memorial stone/grave marker, but they often suggest that the monument be in place within a year. We advise the family to take their time and design a monument that will be a comfort to family members and friends who visit the grave site in the years to come.
When the cemetery plot is purchased, you should receive a copy of their guidelines and policies. Privately owned cemeteries may have strict standards that you’ll need to comply with.
Choosing a Cemetery
Heritage Oaks Memorial Chapel
FD 1990
6920 Destiny Drive
Rocklin CA 95677
(916) 791-2273
