Top 6 Funeral Trends 2021

Traditionally, funerals in the West were a muted affair. However, there has been a cultural shift away from this since the beginning of the 21st century, and the choice of funerals and memorials has boomed. More personal ceremonies have gained increasing popularity, with many people opting for funeral plans that leave sombre traditions behind, and instead speak to their own interests and passions.

Here are the top 6 funeral trends that we’re seeing in 2021.

1. A change of setting

Half a century ago, most funerals in the UK would have been in a church setting, with a focus on hymns, prayers and religious ceremonies. But over the years, funeral trends have changed and shifted with the times to accommodate a more personal style of funeral without a focus on religion. Many people now choose to have their funeral services in a setting that has significance to them, rather than a religious setting. These humanist funerals, or DIY funerals, can be held anywhere that’s happy to host them, from a crematorium to a community centre. Families and friends will often lead the service and give readings in lieu of a minister, offering what many people consider a more intimate way to say goodbye.

2. Celebrations of life

For some, a celebration of life feels more reflective of who they are than a solemn funeral. Simply put, a celebration of life is a more uplifting alternative to traditional funeral services. Rather than focussing on the sadness of a loved one passing away, it celebrates their life and all the joy it brought. It’s an opportunity for family members and friends to share their positive, happy memories. Often, guests will wear bright colours, and singing, dancing, and having a good time are all encouraged. Like any funeral service, a celebration of life is a personal occasion and can take whatever shape the person who has died prefers.

3. More people choose cremation

Whether to be buried or cremated is something that many of us will have to weigh up when thinking about our funerals. What many people don’t realise is that this was not always the case. Direct cremations gained popularity in the 19th century to keep down funeral costs when burial plots became increasingly expensive in cities. Before this, burials were standard. Nowadays, reasons to be cremated are varied, but personalisation is a popular rationale.

When a person is cremated, their ashes can be scattered in a place of their choosing, meaning that their final resting place can be somewhere that meant a lot to them. Rather than being confined to a particular burial plot, ashes can be scattered in the sea, abroad, or along with someone else who has died.

If you’re looking for inspiration for things to do with ashes after cremation, read our guide: What to do with the ashes of a loved one.