Where do you even begin? Part One sets the groundwork so the decisions feel calmer and more doable - without turning it into a checklist.

In this episode:

• Burial vs cremation (with a note on aquamation) — what this early decision shapes next

• No Service, No Attendance (direct cremation) — why some families choose it, and simple rituals so grief still has a place to land

• Service types — traditional funeral, memorial, celebration of life, and mixing a private farewell with a later gathering

• Venues & who leads — chapels, churches, wedding venues, halls, surf clubs, restaurants, backyards; clergy vs celebrant vs family-led

• Timing — why you don’t have to rush, common timelines, and practical factors (paperwork, travel, customs, venue diaries)

What’s in Part Two:
We bring the day to life — coffins/caskets/shrouds, flowers/readings/orders of service/photo tributes, music & rituals, eulogies & who speaks.

Content note: We discuss death, grief, and funeral planning. Please take care while listening.

Crisis support (Australia):

• Emergency: 000 (immediate danger)

• Lifeline: 13 11 14 — 24/7 crisis support & suicide prevention

• 13YARN: 13 92 76 — 24/7 crisis support for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples

• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 — 24/7 phone & online counselling

• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 — 24/7 mental health support

• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 — 24/7 support for young people (5–25)

If you’re outside Australia, please contact your local emergency number or a local crisis line.

Share your questions or experiences: DM on Instagram @TheDWord or email us — we may include answers in a future episode.