Britni Cartwright • December 6, 2024
How to Deal with Bereavement and Holiday Stress: Tips for the First Year
The first holiday season following the loss of a loved one can feel incredibly overwhelming. What is typically a joyful time for gathering and celebration can bring about intense feelings of grief, sadness, and even guilt. While the holiday season can be a reminder of the absence left by your loved one, it's also a time where you might need extra support, understanding, and self-care to cope with bereavement.
In this blog post, we’ll offer some tips for dealing with bereavement and holiday stress during the first year without your loved one. These tips will help you navigate the challenges of grieving while also trying to balance the demands of holiday traditions and expectations.
1. Acknowledge and Accept Your Emotions
The first holiday season after the loss of a loved one is often filled with complicated emotions. It’s important to acknowledge that grief can surface in unexpected ways. You might feel sadness, anger, or even relief at times. These emotions are all valid and part of the grieving process.
Instead of suppressing your feelings or trying to “keep it together,” allow yourself to experience them. Cry if you need to, take time for yourself, and remember that it's okay to not feel festive or joyful. Self-compassion is essential - be kind to yourself during this time.
2. Set Boundaries and Say No When Needed
The pressure of holiday expectations can add to the stress of bereavement. You might feel obligated to attend family gatherings, parties, or other social events that you’re not ready for. It's perfectly okay to say no or to leave early if you feel overwhelmed. Honor your need for rest and solitude.
Setting clear boundaries can help you manage the stress of trying to please everyone while also giving you space to mourn. If you feel like attending an event but are unsure of your emotional state, plan an exit strategy - letting people know beforehand that you may need to leave early or take breaks can reduce anxiety.
3. Create New Traditions or Modify Existing Ones
If certain holiday traditions feel too painful or overwhelming, consider creating new rituals or modifying existing ones. You don’t have to follow every tradition if it doesn’t feel right. If a particular activity or gathering is too difficult, talk to your family about adjusting things to fit what feels manageable for you.
You might decide to have a quiet day at home, spend time with close family, or do something in memory of your loved one. Lighting a candle in their honor, creating a memory box, or donating to a cause they cared about are all meaningful ways to pay tribute to their life while still allowing you to navigate your grief.
4. Reach Out for Support
Grieving during the holidays can be particularly isolating, so it’s essential to seek support when you need it. Whether it’s a close friend, a support group, or a counselor, having someone to talk to can provide comfort and understanding. You don’t have to go through this time alone.
Grief support groups can be especially beneficial during the holiday season, as they allow you to connect with others who understand what you're going through. If you're feeling isolated, reaching out to people you trust or joining a community of people in similar situations can bring solace.
5. Take Care of Yourself Physically
Grief can take a significant toll on your emotional and physical well-being. It’s important to care for your body by getting enough rest, eating nutritious meals, and engaging in some physical activity, even if it’s just a walk around the block. Physical activity can help release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that may help reduce stress and anxiety.
Dealing with grief and the additional stress of the holiday season can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At G Choice Funeral Chapel, we offer grief support and resources to help you cope during this difficult time. If you need assistance or someone to talk to, we are here for you. Contact us today to learn more about our support services and how we can assist you in finding the comfort you need to navigate the first holiday season without your loved one.
Let’s talk about something delicate, yet necessary. It happens more than we care to admit: the casket opens, and out comes a phone. A flash. A snap. A quick photo. A post. A caption. And just like that, what should be a sacred moment becomes content. Taking pictures of the deceased is not just poor etiquette—it’s trauma in disguise. “I just wanted one last photo…” I get it. You’re grieving. You want to remember. You might even feel like it’s your way of saying goodbye. But let me say this gently: what brings you closure could bring someone else unimaginable pain. Funeral services are not photoshoots. The deceased is not a spectacle. And someone’s mother, father, child, or friend does not deserve to be remembered in death through the lens of your phone. Here’s What the Family Sees: A violation of sacred space A lack of consent A moment of vulnerability turned into exposure A complete disregard for dignity and rest Imagine watching someone you love finally laid to rest—only to find their image, lips sealed by death, floating across social media platforms like a trending topic. It hurts. It dishonors. It often enrages. Reminder: If you didn’t ask the family’s permission, you have no business clicking that camera. Legacy Deserves Reverence Let us not confuse remembrance with recording. You can honor someone’s life by telling stories, sharing their smile, living out their lessons. You don’t need to document their final stillness to prove your love. If you truly want a keepsake, ask the family if there are pre-approved memorial images or programs available. Many families now design tribute videos, photo boards, or digital slideshows for this reason—with dignity and intention. There is nothing glamorous about grief. There is nothing respectful about uninvited photography. And there is nothing more sacred than the space between someone’s final breath and their final farewell. Let the dead rest. Let the family mourn. And let your phone stay in your purse, pocket or car. Because **honoring the deceased isn’t about what you capture—it’s about what you carry forward.
Let’s have a heart-to-heart. A funeral is not just a service—it’s sacred space. It’s where legacy is honored, grief is witnessed, and dignity is demanded. Yet too often, I’ve seen people show up to homegoings like it’s brunch, a block party, or worse… a photo shoot. Funeral etiquette still matters, and as the curator of grace and good sense, Funeral Barbie is here to lovingly remind you of a few non-negotiables. Arrive Early. Period. Let’s be clear: showing up late to a funeral is not just disrespectful—it’s disruptive. You interrupt mourning families, block views, and sometimes walk in during the most sacred moments. Don’t do it. Tip: Use Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps to plan your trip. Check traffic the night before. And if you’re prone to running late, aim to arrive 30 minutes early and wait in your car. Punctuality at funerals is a sign of respect—not just for the deceased, but for those carrying their memory. Dress Like You Understand the Assignment No, black isn’t always required—but dignity is. That means no crop tops, no leggings-as-pants, no bedazzled club heels, and definitely no slogan tees. You are there to honor a life, not make a fashion statement. Dress Code Basics: Black, navy, charcoal, or muted colors Dresses or skirts to the knee or longer Suits, slacks, and modest tops for men Shoulders and cleavage covered, if possible Comfortable shoes (especially for graveside services) When in doubt, elevated and understated wins every time. Put the Phone Away—And I Mean AWAY Let me say this with love: the funeral is not your content. Unless you’re the official photographer (and trust me, they rarely are), you have no business recording, livestreaming, or snapping selfies during the service. Put your phone on silent. Leave it in your purse or pocket. This is not the time for distractions. If you must use your phone (for navigation or emergencies), step outside. Never scroll during a eulogy. Never film a casket. Never post a grieving family without consent. There’s a fine line between remembrance and disrespect—and cell phones often cross it. Use Online Tools to Stay Informed & Organized Many families now use websites or apps to share funeral details, RSVP links, virtual streaming options, and even donation links. Don’t ignore these resources. Check the obituary website, church announcement page, or funeral home portal before asking the family for details. It saves them emotional labor—and keeps you informed about parking, attire requests, or live stream info. A little digital awareness goes a long way in honoring the process without adding stress. Funerals are moments of deep reverence—not a time to perform, distract, or draw attention to yourself. Whether you knew the person well or you’re just showing support, the rule is simple: show up with love, dress with care, and move with quiet respect. Because in our culture, how you show up when someone’s gone says everything about who you are while they’re here.
Let’s talk real. Planning your final arrangements isn’t taboo—it’s responsible. But purchasing your own casket or urn without proper knowledge can be a costly, emotional, and sometimes irreversible mistake. I see it happen too often: people walking into funeral homes or online shops thinking they’re taking control of their exit, but they’re doing it blind. They don’t know the materials, the laws, the hidden fees, or how their choices might burden their families later. Let’s pull back the satin curtain and talk facts: Not All Caskets Are Created Equal That $5,000 casket might look luxurious online—but is it solid wood or wood veneer? Is it sealed or non-sealed? Does it meet the cemetery’s burial vault requirements? Many people buy based on appearance without understanding durability, environmental regulations, or what’s actually needed for burial. Tip: Always ask for a l Price List from any provider be sure it breaks down every item and fee. Urn Shopping is More Than Pretty Patterns Urns aren’t just decorative—they serve specific purposes. Is the urn meant for burial, scattering, or display? Does it need to meet TSA guidelines for air travel? What’s the size in cubic inches? If the math is wrong, your loved one’s ashes may not even fit. Tip: One pound of body weight equals roughly one cubic inch of ash. Plan accordingly. You Might Be Double Paying If you purchase a casket or urn ahead of time without coordinating with your chosen funeral home, you risk paying again—either in storage fees, or delivery issues. Know Your Rights: Under the FTC Funeral Rule, funeral homes must accept caskets and urns purchased elsewhere. They can’t charge you a fee just for bringing your own. You’re Planning Emotionally, Not Logically Let’s be honest. Sometimes we choose the most extravagant option because we think it’s “what we deserve.” But extravagance doesn’t equal peace of mind. Your farewell should reflect your values, not your vulnerability. Ask yourself: Am I choosing this to make a statement, or to lighten the load on my loved ones? Planning your own homegoing isn’t morbid—it’s sacred. But don’t let luxury, fear, or misinformation lead your decisions. Do the research, ask the questions, and remember: legacy isn’t in the lining of the casket—it’s in the clarity you leave behind. You deserve a farewell that honors you without burdening the people you love.
Funeral planning is a difficult task, and it’s something that many people prefer to avoid thinking about until absolutely necessary. However, one of the best ways to ensure that your final wishes are respected while also alleviating the burden on your loved ones is to pre-plan your funeral. Pre-planning gives you the opportunity to make decisions that reflect your personal desires, while providing peace of mind for both you and your family. In this blog post, we’ll explore the many benefits of pre-planning your funeral and how it can make a challenging time easier for everyone involved. 1. Reducing the Burden on Loved Ones When a loved one passes away, the emotional strain can be overwhelming. Having to make funeral arrangements while grieving can add an extra layer of stress for family members. By pre-planning your funeral, you take on the responsibility of making these decisions, which means your loved ones can focus on grieving and celebrating your life rather than worrying about logistics. Pre-planning can help them avoid making difficult decisions during a time when they are emotionally vulnerable. 2. Ensuring Your Wishes Are Honored One of the main reasons to pre-plan a funeral is to ensure that your final wishes are clearly communicated and followed. This includes decisions about the type of service, burial or cremation preferences, and any specific requests, such as music, readings, or specific ceremonial elements. By documenting your wishes in advance, you can relieve your family from the uncertainty of making decisions on your behalf, ensuring that the funeral aligns with your values and desires. 3. Financial Benefits and Cost Control Funerals can be expensive, with costs adding up quickly for services, caskets, and other memorial items. By pre-planning your funeral, you can lock in today’s prices and avoid potential future price increases. Many funeral homes offer pre-payment options that allow you to pay for the funeral over time, providing financial security for your family and reducing their financial burden. It’s important to discuss the details with the funeral home to understand exactly what is included in your pre-paid plan. 4. Personalizing the Service Pre-planning gives you the opportunity to personalize the funeral service to reflect your unique personality and life. You can choose specific songs, readings, and speakers that are meaningful to you, ensuring that the service is a true reflection of your values and preferences. This can make the event more memorable for your family and friends, and provide them with a meaningful way to celebrate your life. 5. Avoiding Family Disagreements Funeral planning can sometimes lead to disagreements among family members, especially if there are differing opinions about how to honor the deceased. By pre-planning your funeral, you make your wishes clear, which can help avoid potential conflicts among family members. This is particularly important if there are complex family dynamics that could lead to stress or tension during an already emotional time. At G Choice Funeral Chapel, we understand that pre-planning your funeral is a deeply personal and important decision. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process with compassion and professionalism, ensuring that your final wishes are met while easing the burden on your loved ones. If you’re interested in learning more about pre-planning your funeral, or if you have questions about the options available, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us . We are here to help you make informed decisions and provide peace of mind for you and your family. Contact G Choice Funeral Chapel today to get started.
Grief is a deeply personal experience that everyone faces at some point in life. It can be triggered by the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or any other significant loss. What many people don’t realize is that grief doesn’t follow a single, predictable path. It can be a complicated mix of emotions and experiences, and it can vary from person to person. Understanding the stages of grief and how to cope with them can provide comfort and guidance during a very challenging time. In this blog post, we’ll explore the stages of grief and offer some strategies for coping with the pain and loss. The Stages of Grief: The concept of the stages of grief was first introduced by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her groundbreaking 1969 book On Death and Dying. According to Kübler-Ross, there are five primary stages of grief that many people go through when facing loss. These stages, though not necessarily experienced in order or at all, can provide a helpful framework for understanding the emotional turmoil that comes with grief. Denial The first stage of grief is often denial. This is when individuals have difficulty accepting the reality of their loss. They may feel numb or as if the situation isn’t real. Denial can provide a temporary defense mechanism, allowing people to slowly process the shock of their loss. Anger As reality begins to set in, anger may follow. People in this stage often feel frustration and resentment, either toward themselves, others, or even the deceased. This anger can stem from feelings of helplessness, and it may manifest in outward irritability or inward self-blame. Bargaining During this stage, individuals may try to make deals or promises in an attempt to reverse the loss. They might find themselves thinking, “If only I had done this differently,” or “I’ll change if you bring them back.” Bargaining is often an expression of regret and a desire to regain some control over the situation. Depression As the full reality of the loss sinks in, individuals may experience sadness and despair. Feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and overwhelming sorrow are common in this stage. It’s important to recognize that depression is a natural part of the grieving process, but it can also be a signal to seek support. Acceptance The final stage of grief is acceptance, where individuals come to terms with their loss. While this does not mean the pain is gone, it indicates that the person has begun to adjust to life without their loved one and has found a way to move forward. This stage often brings a sense of peace, though it can take time. Coping with Grief: Understanding that grief is a complex and ongoing process is crucial for coping with loss. Here are some strategies that may help individuals manage their grief: Allow Yourself to Feel It’s important to let yourself experience the full range of emotions that come with grief. Suppressing feelings may only prolong the healing process. Give yourself permission to grieve and process emotions without judgment. Talk to Someone Sharing your feelings with friends, family, or a therapist can be incredibly healing. Talking about your loss can help you process your emotions and feel less isolated. Practice Self-Care Taking care of your physical health can support your emotional healing. Make sure to get enough rest, eat well, and engage in activities that help reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, or taking walks. Seek Support Groups Grief support groups can provide a sense of community with others who are going through similar experiences. These groups can offer comfort and validation and help you feel less alone. If you’re struggling with grief and need support, G Choice Funeral Chapel is here to help. We offer grief support resources and can connect you with local support groups or professional counselors to guide you through this difficult time. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance or simply to talk. Our compassionate team is here to provide the support and comfort you need to navigate your grief and begin healing. Contact G Choice Funeral Chapel today for more information.
The funeral profession is steeped in tradition, but it is also a field that must constantly evolve to meet the changing needs of families and communities. This year’s National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association (NFDMA) event embraced this duality with the theme “Create | Collaborate | Cultivate.” It’s a powerful message that reflects the future of funeral service - one built on innovation, partnership, and growth. G. Choice Funeral Chapel, serving families across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware, continues to embody this mindset in every aspect of its service. During the event, Britni’ Choice, President of G. Choice Funeral Chapel, was recognized as a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner, a distinction that highlights her commitment to professional excellence and progressive leadership in the industry. Creating Personalized and Meaningful Services The first pillar, Create, is central to how G. Choice Funeral Chapel approaches each family they serve. Creating a meaningful funeral or memorial isn’t simply about following a checklist; it’s about crafting a unique and lasting tribute that reflects the life, values, and legacy of the individual being honored. From personalized service options to modern memorial formats, we help families design experiences that are authentic and deeply personal. Whether it’s incorporating cultural traditions, live-streaming services for out-of-town loved ones, or arranging unique keepsakes, the chapel’s commitment to creative solutions ensures that no two services are alike. Collaborating with Families and the Community The second focus, Collaborate, is at the heart of how we build trust. Funeral planning is inherently emotional and often overwhelming. At G. Choice Funeral Chapel, we don’t simply offer services - we partner with families, walking with them step by step to ensure every detail reflects their wishes and values. This collaborative spirit also extends beyond the funeral home. We work closely with local churches, community organizations, and care professionals, creating a support network that helps families navigate grief, healing, and life after loss. Our collaborative approach to service planning and care is what sets them apart from other funeral homes in the region. Cultivating a Legacy of Service and Growth The final theme, Cultivate, speaks to long-term vision and development. At G. Choice Funeral Chapel, this means more than maintaining a legacy. It’s about investing in education, professional development, and community engagement to continually improve the care they provide. With over 45 years of family ownership and a deep-rooted connection to the community, G. Choice Funeral Chapel continues to cultivate excellence. This includes staying up to date with industry standards, expanding service offerings, and fostering a team culture of compassion and professionalism. By nurturing both our staff and its service model, we ensure we can meet the diverse and evolving needs of families today - and for generations to come. Leading with Purpose The recognition of Britni’ Choice at this year’s NFDMA event is a testament to the values that G. Choice Funeral Chapel lives every day. “Create | Collaborate | Cultivate” is not just a theme - it’s a philosophy that guides our work, our growth, and our unwavering commitment to serving families with dignity and respect. Let’s Create the Future Together As the funeral profession continues to evolve, G. Choice Funeral Chapel remains a beacon of dignity, respect, and forward-thinking care. Whether you're pre-planning for peace of mind or need compassionate guidance during a time of loss, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact G. Choice Funeral Chapel today to learn how our certified professionals can help you create a service that truly honors your loved one while embracing the future of funeral care. Visit our website or call to speak with a member of our dedicated team.
Choosing the Right Memorialization Option: Burial, Cremation, or Something Unique? When the time comes to plan a funeral, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is how to memorialize your loved one. Whether you are planning for yourself or a family member, it’s essential to understand the various memorialization options available so that you can make a decision that aligns with your loved one’s wishes, values, and beliefs. The two most common options are burial and cremation, but there are also unique alternatives that may be a better fit for some families. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most popular memorialization choices, and offer insights to help you decide which one is right for you. Traditional Burial: Burial has been a long-standing tradition and remains one of the most widely chosen memorialization options. With burial, the deceased’s body is placed in a casket and laid to rest in a cemetery or burial plot. Families may choose to have a viewing or funeral service before the burial, which typically takes place at the gravesite with a ceremony, a prayer, and a final farewell. Advantages of Burial: Permanence One of the key benefits of burial is the permanent memorial it provides. A gravesite with a headstone or marker can serve as a physical place for families to visit, reflect, and remember their loved one. Cultural and Religious Significance For many, burial is a significant practice that aligns with their cultural or religious beliefs. It provides a sense of continuity and tradition, particularly for those who believe in the importance of the body remaining intact after death. Family Legacy A burial plot offers a lasting location that can be passed down through generations, keeping family history alive. Cremation: Cremation is the process of reducing the body to ashes through high heat, and the remains are returned to the family in an urn. Cremation can be followed by a memorial service, where the ashes may be present or displayed in a meaningful way, or they may be scattered in a location that was significant to the deceased. Advantages of Cremation: Flexibility Cremation offers families greater flexibility when it comes to memorialization. The cremated remains can be kept in a decorative urn at home, placed in a columbarium, or scattered in a location of personal significance to the deceased. Cost-Effective Generally, cremation tends to be less expensive than traditional burial due to the lower cost of materials and services (i.e., caskets, burial plots). Environmentally Friendly Options Many families opt for eco-friendly cremation practices, such as biodegradable urns and natural scattering sites, making it a more sustainable option. Unique Memorialization Options: For those seeking something more personalized or unique, there are many options beyond traditional burial and cremation. Some of these alternatives can honor the deceased’s individuality or contribute to the environment. Memorial Reefs By turning cremated remains into a reef ball and placing it in the ocean, families can create a living memorial that helps foster marine life and environmental sustainability. Biodegradable Urns and Memorial Trees Some families choose to use biodegradable urns that contain a seed, allowing the cremated remains to become part of a tree or plant. This offers a natural, living tribute to the deceased. Memorial Jewelry or Keepsakes A unique option for memorializing a loved one is turning their cremated remains into jewelry or keepsakes, such as a necklace or ring. These pieces can carry a small portion of the remains, allowing loved ones to carry a part of them wherever they go. Choosing the right memorialization option for your loved one is a deeply personal decision, and G Choice Funeral Chapel is here to help guide you through the process. Whether you’re considering traditional burial, cremation, or a more unique option, our experienced team can provide valuable insight and help you create a meaningful tribute that reflects the life and legacy of your loved one. Contact us today to learn more about your options and begin planning a memorial that truly honors their memory. Let us provide the support and care you need during this difficult time.
