February 18th 2024.
It's no secret that funerals are not the most exciting topic to discuss. However, have you ever thought about how you would like your own funeral to be? It's likely that you may have considered writing a will or setting up a savings account to cover the costs of the ceremony. But perhaps it's time to think outside the box and get a little more creative.
According to a recent study by SunLife, a financial services company, some people are opting for unconventional funeral requests. From funeral directors dressed as Darth Vader or Gandalf, to mourners wearing suspenders and stilettos for a Rocky Horror-themed ceremony, these unique requests aim to celebrate the deceased's quirky personality even in death.
The study, which spoke to 100 funeral directors and 1,500 Brits who have planned a funeral in the last year, showed that there is a growing trend of sci-fi and fantasy themed funerals. Some individuals have even requested to be buried in high visibility gear or pajamas, while others have opted for a completely nude funeral to commemorate their life as an atheist.
But it's not just about costumes and themes. Some people want their funeral to reflect their profession, such as a farmer who requested to be buried in a coffin lined with hay or a green grocer who wanted a fruit and vegetable arrangement instead of flowers.
It's not surprising that these unconventional requests come at a cost. In the UK, the average funeral now costs £9,658, a staggering 126% increase from 20 years ago. And with the cost of dying getting more expensive each year, it's no wonder that some individuals are choosing to go all out with their funeral plans.
Mark Screeton, CEO of SunLife, believes that these unique funeral requests are a way for people to make their loved ones' final farewell more personal. He recalls some of the most memorable requests, such as a man who wanted to be buried as Father Christmas, or a naturist who was laid to rest completely naked alongside his family.
But location also plays a role in funeral costs. It seems that the postcode lottery extends even after death, with London being the most expensive place to die in the UK. On average, a funeral in London can cost up to £5,171, followed by the South East and East of England at £4,643.
Despite the high costs, some individuals are still willing to spare no expense for their final farewell. And while it may seem unconventional to some, it's all about celebrating the unique lives of those who have passed on. After all, as the saying goes, "you only live once."
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
