Just as with adult funerals, you can choose the type of service you would like to have, including an order of service, readings, music and flowers, and let people know what colours you would like them to wear to the funeral. You may like to have a small gathering after the service.
If you choose not to have flowers at the funeral, you might like to request donations instead to a charity of your choice, and Sands has funeral envelopes and other resources available. You may choose to hold the funeral service at an external public venue or you may prefer a more intimate space such as your home or your garden.
Some parents ask a friend or relative to take photographs. It is important to let them know exactly what you want them to do and especially if there are any times during the service that you want them to avoid taking photographs. Photos can provide you with precious mementoes and remind you of the people who came to honour your baby and to support you. These photos may also be helpful for young siblings as they grow older, or as a way of starting a conversation with them about their brother or sister.
If you want photos or a video of the funeral ceremony itself, check first with the person leading the funeral, the funeral director and any staff involved in the funeral. It is usually possible as long as the funeral is only for your baby and is not shared with others.