An outdoor funeral offers a touching tribute for your loved one, particularly if he or she loved nature. To plan this type of funeral service properly, there are a few details you'll want to consider. By planning in advance, you can help ensure the comfort of mourners while still honoring the memory of your loved one.

Insect Repellent

Insects can be a problem in outdoor settings, and the last thing you want to worry about is a swarm of mosquitoes or bees attacking the event. Consider hiring a pest control expert to spray the area where the funeral will be held beforehand. While this won't keep all pests away, it can help to make the event a bit more comfortable for guests. If you are hosting a ceremony at dusk or at night, consider adding citronella candles. These candles add to the overall aesthetic of the service while also helping to ward off mosquito bites.

Tents

Renting a party tent keeps mourners shielded from both the hot sun and cold rain. The tent you select should be large enough to accommodate the seating area for all guests as well as the lectern area at the front. If the casket will be present, you'll also need to allow extra space for it as well. Be sure there is plenty of clearance on all sides of the seating area so heavy rains won't impact people sitting on the ends of each aisle.

Fans And Umbrellas

Be prepared for adverse weather conditions by having items you can pass out to mourners when they arrive. These might include large golf umbrellas or fans, which can help everyone cope with heat and rain throughout the service. Plastic shoe covers can also be a good option to protect footwear from muddy conditions if it has rained overnight. Have your funeral home director keep these items stored in his or her vehicle so they can be passed out if needed.

Backup Plan

Of course, sometimes the weather can be more than a tent or an umbrella can make up for. When choosing an outdoor venue for your loved one's funeral, check to see if there is an alternate indoor location you can use should the weather be too severe for an outdoor service. In some cases, a field house or pole barn can be a suitable alternative.

Discuss your plans with a funeral director at homes like Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, and ask if he or she has any other suggestions you can use to help make the funeral service a beautiful and touching tribute to your loved one. Your funeral home director may even have outdoor funeral packages that include many of these elements so you can select the package and pricing that works best for you. 

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