17%? Let’s level that up.

I just ran across this stat … Did you know 69% of adults over 40 want to pre-arrange their funeral services, but only 17% actually do*? That’s a huge gap!

So, what’s holding us back from taking this important step?

“Plenty of time!” We often think death is far off, but life is unpredictable. Pre-planning now means making clear-headed decisions, not rushed ones.

Picture it: Sam and his spouse sat with me and decided not to plan. “It wasn’t the right time”. Years later, there was an unexpected diagnosis. Sam found my card and reached out for guidance, and we talked through the family’s questions. He and his family sat together, grief-stricken, to make arrangements during a terrible, emotional time. He looked me in the eye and said he wished they had taken care of things when we met before.

“My family will handle it.” While they will, imagine the immense burden lifted if your wishes were already known. Pre-planning is a loving gift that allows them to grieve, not guess.

Picture it: Someone reached out to me after her father had passed away. She wanted to thank me for helping dad put plans in place years ago, and said that she would have made all the wrong decisions – she would have chosen the wrong casket, placed him in the wrong cemetery, and other choices. She was so glad his voice was there to guide her.

“Too uncomfortable to think about.” It’s natural to avoid this topic, but facing it now empowers you to create a service that truly reflects your life, values, and wishes.

Picture it: We’re sitting around a table—maybe your kitchen table—drinking coffee together. I’m guiding us through questions and options, ensuring every detail feels right for you. Even clients who shed a few tears during the conversation often share a laugh. By the end, there’s a sense of relief, knowing that the plans truly honor their unique story and values.

“It’s too expensive/I don’t know where to start.” Starting is easy – it’s a simple phone call to your trusted planning advisor – like me. I will walk with you through your planning decisions, help you document your wishes, and review payment plan options that work for you. It will never be less expensive than it is today – and planning with a clear head avoids emotional spending in a time of grief.

Picture it: I worked with a family who lost a friend they had been responsible for for many, many years. It was unexpected, and they were devastated. They wanted the best for him. Although presented with many choices, they chose the most expensive casket because they thought it best honored him. Weeks later, they called back in regret – they had not made the right financial choice and wondered if there was anything we could do.

Why pre-plan?

• Peace of Mind: For you and your loved ones, knowing everything is taken care of.
• Your Wishes Honored: Ensure your final farewell truly reflects who you are.
• Reduces Stress & Decisions for Family: Spare them from making difficult emotional, financial, and logistical choices during a time of grief.
• Financial Foresight: Understand costs and make informed, budgeted, meaningful decisions.

Take the first step towards peace of mind today – It’s easier than you think, and the gift to your family is immeasurable. You can reach me at 407-608-9242 to schedule your consultation.

*Survey by the Funeral and Memorial Information Council (FAMIC) and Harris Poll. https://www.famic.org/famic-study/