plan-ahead

Although many don’t realize it, it is possible to plan your own funeral services while you are still alive and well.

This is known as “pre-planning”, and it is a very responsible and caring act that can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

The many benefits of planning ahead

Gives you time to consider your options
You’ll be able to research your options, and then make decisions about what’s right for you without being rushed. You’ll also be able to comparison shop. Fees can vary widely from one mortuary to the next. Because it’s family-owned instead of part of a large corporate chain, Olive Tree Mortuary is able to offer one of the best values in Southern California.

Ensures your wishes will be honored
You’ll be able to influence all elements of your funeral, from the casket or urn to the music, songs or readings to be included at the service. Many people make the mistake of only recording their preferences in their Will. Unfortunately, the Will, which is often stored in a safety deposit box, frequently is not read until after the funeral has taken place.

Eliminates guesswork for your family
Chances are your family members do not know exactly what decisions you would have made. Sometimes family members do not know the answers to even the most basic questions, such as whether the deceased would prefer to be buried, cremated or interned.

Reduces last-minute expenses
Because you have planned in advance, your family is less likely to incur additional expenses at the time of the funeral.

Alleviates the burden for your loved ones
Preplanning your funeral ensures that your loved ones will not have to make these difficult decisions at what is already a very challenging time. Instead, rational decisions can be made ahead of time without the urgency that occurs once a death has taken place.

Enables you to pre-pay
Pre-paying for your funeral can offer significant financial benefits. First, this relieves your loved ones of the burden of paying for your funeral. During their time of grief they won’t have to deal with this financial worry. Second, in many cases, pre-payment allows you to lock in today’s prices. As with everything else, funeral costs do go up over time.