How Picaluna is revolutionising cost structures.
A discussion of the increasing demand for transparent funeral pricing and a showcase of how Picaluna’s pricing model provides clarity and fairness to families, eliminating hidden costs and fees.
The passing of a loved one is an emotional and trying time, and while families focus on bidding their final farewells, the last thing they need is to be blindsided by unexpected financial burdens. Whether it be an expected or sudden death, the cost burden is real and unfortunately the funeral industry has been notorious for its hidden costs that can catch grieving families off guard.
Fortunately, a new wave of transparency has recently emerged!
In October 2016 Picaluna Funerals Sydney launched, with one important goal, to offer a better way for family and friends to say goodbye to the people they love. They wanted the process to be simpler, more affordable, and definitely transparent. Picaluna saw the need for innovation in this arena. In their development they included elements such as death doulas, prepaid plans, and eco-friendly options, and have built an honourable reputation for transparency within their cost structures. Recently, Picaluna expanded its operations to Melbourne and has consolidated its place in the funeral industry, transforming the way funeral services are priced and offered.
In this article, we delve into the importance of transparency in funeral pricing and explore various aspects of the evolving funeral landscape in Australia. We’ll shed light on the concept of funeral hidden costs, explore why they exist, and provide guidance on how to navigate this delicate terrain.
Past patterns
Historically, several factors have contributed to the prevalence of hidden costs within the funeral industry. A major contributor to this is the practice of bundling services together into packages. Funeral packages can obscure individual services costs. When services are bundled into packages families might end up paying for services they don’t necessarily need or want.
While the core components of a funeral are usually apparent, such as the casket or coffin, transportation, and service fees, there are many additional costs that families might not anticipate or might not need to include. These costs can quickly add up, leaving families grappling with unanticipated financial stress during an already challenging time. Funeral planning during a time of heightened emotional vulnerability can make families more susceptible to including additional services, without fully understanding the costs involved.
Common Hidden Costs in Funerals
Funeral services often involve an array of products that come with associated expenses, however not all services are vital. Embalming has different levels, and is often not necessary. Families might find themselves paying for some element of embalming without realising that it’s optional and not a requirement.
Viewing and Visitation: Viewing and visitation services, including makeup and hairstyling for the deceased, can carry extra charges that families might not anticipate, particularly if multiple viewing times are required.
Grave Opening and Closing: Even if the burial site is not included in the funeral package, families might face additional costs for opening and closing the grave. These costs can vary from cemetery to cemetery.
Floral Arrangements: While flowers are often an integral part of funeral services, families might not be prepared for the costs associated with elaborate floral arrangements. Families should consider this expense and discuss all options, including sourcing flowers locally or from their own gardens.
Funeral expenses can quickly escalate, with various components contributing to the overall costs of caskets and coffins, cremation fees, professional services, venue hire, and more. In such a sensitive time, it’s crucial for grieving families to have a clear understanding of the pricing breakdown.
As funeral practices continue to evolve, and we move towards more non traditional funeral services, the importance of transparent pricing cannot be overstated. Picaluna’s model and the broader industry innovations means that the landscape is shifting towards a future where saying goodbye is not only respectful but also financially manageable and emotionally healing non traditional funeral services.
Navigating Funeral Costs
When discussing funeral arrangements with a funeral director it is prudent to request an itemised breakdown of all the costs. This assists in the understanding of what you’re paying for and can highlight potential concealed expenses. If something is unclear or if you’re unsure about a particular cost, don’t hesitate to ask questions. A reputable funeral director should be willing to provide transparent answers.
The prevalence of funeral hidden costs underscores the importance of being informed and proactive when making funeral arrangements. By understanding the factors contributing to hidden costs and taking steps to navigate this terrain with caution, families can ensure that they’re making decisions that align with their budget and their loved one’s wishes. Transparent communication, research, and seeking the guidance of reputable funeral directors can go a long way in ensuring that the farewell process is both respectful and financially manageable.
Picaluna Funerals was founded on the principle of creating authentic and meaningful farewells that reflect the individuality and essence of the departed. They have made it their mission to bring transparency and honesty to the forefront of funeral planning. Their innovative approach aims to empower families with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions, removing any feeling of being exploited or manipulated. Their commitment to openness and honesty is reflected in all aspects of their services.
Innovations Shaping the Funeral Landscape and Services Offered
Funeral Bonds: A funeral bond is a financial investment designed to cover future funeral expenses. This proactive approach empowers people to plan ahead and have more control over their funeral costs.
Prepaid Funeral Plans: Picaluna’s prepaid funeral plans allow individuals to lock in today’s prices for their future funeral, protecting against inflation and ensuring that loved ones aren’t burdened by rising costs. These plans offer not only financial benefits but also the assurance that one’s final wishes will be respected.
Transparent Pricing Structures: Picaluna is known for its clear and straightforward pricing structures. Families can access detailed breakdowns of all costs, enabling them to tailor the life celebration funeral service to their preferences and budget. This openness eliminates surprises and helps create a more respectful and stress-free process.
Eco-Friendly Options: Picaluna extends its commitment to transparency to its eco-friendly offerings. Families can opt for cardboard coffins or eco coffins, contributing to a more sustainable farewell. The cost implications of these choices are presented transparently, allowing families to make environmentally conscious decisions without any hidden fees.
Local Funeral Celebrants: Collaborating with local funeral celebrants is another way Picaluna enhances its services. Families have the option to work with celebrants who understand the community, ensuring a personalised and meaningful ceremony that captures the essence of the individual being honoured.
Beyond transparency, several other Picaluna innovations are reshaping the funeral industry landscape in Australia!
Live Streaming Funeral Services: In the digital age, geographical constraints need not prevent loved ones from participating in funeral services. Picaluna and other funeral homes offer live streaming options, enabling family and friends from around the country and the world to be part of the farewell ceremony. This service reduces costs for the deceased’s larger community.
Funeral Venues: Funeral venues are evolving to offer more flexibility and diverse spaces for commemorations. These venues cater to various preferences, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. Funeral directors work to ensure that the funeral venue aligns with the deceased’s personality and the family’s wishes and budget.
Funeral Celebrant Training: Picaluna places emphasis on training local funeral celebrants, ensuring they possess the necessary skills to create meaningful and customised ceremonies to serve their own communities. This training contributes to a higher standard of service and a deeper connection between the celebrant and the bereaved.
Cardboard Coffin Designs: Eco-friendly coffins, particularly cardboard coffins, have gained popularity due to their biodegradability and affordability. They can also be personalised with unique designs and artwork, adding a touch of individuality to the farewell.
The True Value of Transparency
Transparency in funeral pricing extends beyond financial clarity—it fosters empathy, respect, and understanding. Families are empowered to make choices that reflect their cultural values, personal preferences, and financial circumstances. In a time marked by vulnerability, being able to navigate the funeral process with transparency helps ease the emotional burden and foster a more meaningful healing journey.
Picaluna’s model
Picaluna believes in 100% price transparency, so we do things a little differently.
We see our role as being available to assist and empower families to create meaningful and authentic farewells that are aligned with their values. We are completely transparent with our pricing, sourcing everything at wholesale price and applying a 35% service fee to the wholesale cost of the funeral. Furthermore, we donate 5% of our profit to a charity of your choice. All costings can be easily located here on the website.
In conclusion
Transparency not only fosters trust but also empowers families to make informed decisions that align with their budget and values. A lack of transparency can lead to undue financial strain and emotional distress.
The funeral industry is undergoing a transformation driven by a demand for transparency, affordability, and sustainability. Picaluna Funerals stands as a beacon for change, offering transparent pricing structures, innovative prepaid plans, and eco-friendly options. By reimagining how funeral services are provided and priced, Picaluna is demonstrating a commitment to honouring both the departed and the grieving families.
