When you're taking care of a recently deceased loved one's funeral arrangements, and it comes time to select the casket, it's worthwhile to give this step careful consideration. Caskets are available in different materials, colors, and styles, and while it's important to strongly consider these characteristics, you should also inquire about special features that many caskets include. You want to be sure that every element of the funeral service and subsequent burial perfectly suits the person you're honoring, and a casket with a few different special features is important. Here are some special features to consider.
Sliding Drawer
If the person requested that he or she wanted to be buried with certain valuable keepsakes, you don't need to merely scatter these items inside the casket. Instead, find a casket that includes a sliding drawer. Often positioned at either end of the casket, this small drawer operates like the upper drawer of a dresser. It may be lined in felt or another soft material, and can be pulled out and filled with whatever special items the person asked to be buried with. The drawer can then be slid shut, where it will remain virtually unnoticeable during the funeral service and the burial.
Fine Details
When some people think of buying a themed casket, they think that it has to be gaudy. Fortunately, this isn't the case. If your deceased family member had a high degree of passion about a specific topic, you may be able to find a casket that has subtle details that reflect this passion. For example, if your loved one was an avid golfer, you don't need to get a coffin painted up like a golf course. Instead, you may be able to find one that has subtle details positioned around the exterior to pay tribute to the person's love of golf.
Lid Inserts
Many caskets can also be outfitted with lid inserts, which are essentially a pocket or holder in the material on the inside of the lid. This will allow you to mount a specific object to the inside of the lid, making it visible during an open-casket funeral service. For example, some inserts are made to hold a folded up flag, while others are made to hold a large photo — for example, a family photo. Taking the time during the shopping process to find a casket that offers these features is an effective way to honor the life of your loved one.
Talk to companies like Elmwood Casket Company to learn more about custom caskets and available features.