A BEAUTIFUL Life Funerals opened its new Morpeth premises a little over a month ago and is now serving the communities of Morpeth, Dungog, Port Stephens and surrounding areas.

Owner Sharon Tolcher said it has been incredible to witness the community support and talented local creatives.

“We have gorgeous cotton and lace shrouds being made for us in Dungog, precious ceramic urns for ashes from Raymond Terrace and the Morpeth Men’s Shed are making artisan timber boxes out of locally sourced timber so that ashes can be returned in a dignified manner.

“We also have a local team of gentle souls to assist with pastoral care and vigils if needed.”

To best prepare families, A Beautiful Life Funerals will be holding regular Pre-Need Funeral Planning and End of Life Wishes Workshops.

The first one will be held on 11 December at A Beautiful Life Funerals at 3/142 Swan Street, Morpeth from 4-6pm.

“Numbers will be limited to eight to make for easier conversation, and we will have Ruth Boydell and Bernadette Connolly who both have rich experience as end of life doulas to share their thoughts and answer your questions,” Sharon Tolcher.

“We don’t want this to be a difficult conversation for people and in our experience people love to talk about their options if given the opportunity.

“We will be providing Boydell’s wine and a cheese and fruit plate and cannot wait to share the afternoon in some wonderful conversation.

“You will leave with your Advanced Care Directive, End of Life Wishes and Funeral Plan.

“The cost is $55. Please email care@abeautifullifefunerals to save your seat.”

Sharon said being uncomfortable discussing death and dying was a part of Australian culture.

“We are noticing that on many occasions families have not discussed their wishes with each other and then sadly when an unexpected death occurs there is compounded distress for those left behind when making the many decisions that are needed to plan a funeral or memorial service.

“In our culture here in Australia many of us are not good at talking about this really important life event.

“We plan our weddings and other major milestones for many months or even years but find it hard to talk about our wishes at the end of our beautiful life.

“It takes courage to think about your own mortality and create a gift of insight for those you love and those that care for you.

“It is a great act of empowerment and can bring great comfort and a healthier bereavement to those left behind.”