Making the Funeral Unique

Making a funeral unique

From subtle details to a fully themed tribute, here at Hillier Funeral Service, we’re here to provide the perfectly unique send-off for your loved one.

Sometimes, the person decides on a theme for their funeral in advance. Other times, family or friends choose a theme to celebrate the person’s life and interests. Some themes we have been able to achieve include:

• TV and Film: Harry Potter, Ghost Busters, Only Fools and Horses, Last of The Summer Wine, Love Your Garden, Match of The Day.
• Hobbies and Interests: Knitting, Motorcycles and Scooters, Gardening, Pets, Football, Cricket, Boules, Formula 1, Christmas, DIY.
• Values and Beliefs: Full Religious Ceremony, Military Ceremony, LGBTQ+ Pride, Eco-Friendly.

How else can we personalise the experience?

Although every funeral is personal and individual to the person whose life it represents, it is possible to incorporate details into the funeral arrangements which reflect their personal interests and hobbies. We can accommodate personalisation of almost every aspect of a funeral, such as:

• Alternative Vehicles: As well as our traditional funeral fleet, we have access to a range of vehicles. These include horse-drawn hearses, a range of motorcycle hearses, and even a ‘Ghostbusters’ hearse.
• The Coffin: Coffins and caskets can be custom-engraved with names, nicknames and image, and can be painted in any colour, or finished in a more traditional wood finish. Alternatively, the Colourful Coffin range of picture coffins can be custom designed.
• Printed Order of Service: A bespoke theme for you loved ones printed Order of Service can be chosen from our extensive range stationary options, or for something in particular, we’ll happily create the perfect design. Some popular choices include those of beloved pets, a favourite sport, or a special piece of art.
• Dress Code: Those attending the funeral can also play their part – asking everyone to wear a particular colour, a flower, or their favourite football shirt can make everyone feel part of the moment. Our bearers will also be happy to honour the theme, wearing an alternative tie, suit, or entire outfit if you so wish.
• Music: A piece of music can evoke the most wonderful memories of someone’s life, and is a simple, but effective way to honour a loved-one at their funeral.  From the majestic ‘The Last Post’ bugle call signifying a soldier going to his final rest, to a football fans’ funeral kicking off to ‘Match of The Day’, and everything in between.
• Floral Tributes: Our wonderful florists at IV Florist in Shrivenham create the most wonderful floral tributes. Choose from their range, or ask for something bespoke to fit with a theme.

In addition to themed funerals, there are many unique ideas for memorial services that celebrate life. Consider creating a memory table for guests to contribute photos, mementos, and written memories of the departed, or supplying the congregation with wildflower seeds to watch them grow and keep their memories alive.

If you would like to incorporate any of these ideas, speak to your Funeral Arranger for guidance. Through such a difficult time, we’ll be by your side.