Looking back, I never thought I’d be saying that I’ve worked at a funeral technology company for three years. In fact, until this job, I never knew that funeral technology companies existed. I knew very little about the funeral profession and all it entails before working at Frazer Consultants.

Now, after being immersed in the funeral profession for three years, I’ve learned more than I could have ever imagined about funerals. And with this gained knowledge, I also have a huge amount of admiration for funeral directors and all that you do. I feel honored to be a part of the Frazer family and help you better serve your families.

I want to reflect on what I’ve learned so far and what I wish I knew a long time ago about funerals.

There’s No Wrong Way to Plan Funerals

One of the most eye-opening things I’ve learned is that funerals don’t have to just be somber, traditional burial services. They can be joyful celebrations of life, cremation ceremonies, or even environmentally friendly burial services. You also can personalize them however you’d like. Personally, I like the idea of having a green burial. As for the service, I want it to be as personalized as possible to reflect my personality and interests.

There Are Many Healthy Ways to Grieve

I’ve attended more than five funeral profession conventions so far and one of the important topics these conventions cover is grief. Specifically, that grief is different for everyone, so not all grieving methods work for the same people. However, there are many healthy grieving options people can try. For example, when my grandparents passed away, my family made rose petal-pressed memorial frames as keepsakes. They’re a beautiful reminder of them that we can proudly display in our homes.

Death Doesn’t Have to Be a Morbid Topic

Death is scary, but it doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be talked about. It took me a little while to get comfortable talking about it. However, like any topic, it feels so good to be able to openly talk about it instead of just keeping your thoughts inside. And by talking about it now, you can learn more about your loved ones while they’re still alive.

Funeral Directors Are More Than Meets the Eye

I had no idea how much funeral directors do for their communities. I don’t know how you do it all, but you do — and you do it well. From planning funerals and community events to starting support groups, you’re the glue that keeps the community together during tough times.

A few years ago, I saw first-hand the hard work that goes into planning a holiday remembrance program. The Haase-Lockwood staff meticulously plans their program and goes above and beyond for their families. While watching them prepare for the event, it was at that moment I realized how special all of you are and the positive difference we’re all making by working in this profession.