Frequently Asked Questions
Finding yourself in the position of arranging someone’s funeral can be daunting, as well as emotionally draining. Our advice: don’t be rushed into making any decisions, do your research and think about what you want.
Below are some of the questions we get asked frequently, we hope they are of some help. Please feel free to contact us also if you need more advice.
Where is the best place to look for practical information on what has to happen when someone dies?
Start with the Government website which will explain that you need to register the death and how to do this. They will then suggest contacting a funeral director to arrange a funeral. This is where you can leave their website and look at some broader and more enlightened advice. Don’t panic! There is no rush.
We suggest you start with: The Natural Death Centre, The Good Funeral Guide and the Bereavement Advice website
If you do want to use a funeral director, they will be able to refer you to good, independent advice in your area.
If you want to go it alone, they will tell you how you can – impartially, legally and practically.
If you aren’t sure, contact us and we can talk you through your options – whether you end up using our services or not. It’s important to get this right.
What’s legally allowed?
There is a law that says a body must be disposed of. But there is no law that requires you to have a funeral ceremony.
(‘Disposal means disposal by burial, cremation or any other means’ – source Births and Deaths Registration Act, 1953.)
The Good Funeral Guide has the best information on what’s legally required and what’s optional.
If you aren’t sure, contact us and we can talk you through your options – whether you end up using our services or not. It’s important to get this right.
Where can I find out what choices are available?
There are very few rules. You don’t even have to have a funeral. You will need to make a decision about burial or cremation to dispose of the body. But the rest is up to you.
If you want, we can organise the burial or the cremation leaving you to concentrate on the funeral itself. You could have a memorial service at a church, or a party in a pub, a picnic.
Choose a place that has meaning for you and your family. Celebrate the life of the person you have lost. Do this before the cremation or burial with the coffin present. Or afterwards with the ashes. Do it with music, poems and stories, films and pictures, food and friends. It’s even possible these days to share the event via webcast with friends or relatives who can’t travel but wish they could be present.
How can I plan a funeral when I don’t know what the person who died wanted?
If the person who’s died has not made their wishes clear, then it’s worth remembering that a funeral is, in truth, for the people who are left behind.
Our advice would be to think about who will want to be involved, talk to them about their memories of the person and ask for their thoughts on what sort of ceremony and location would best reflect their life.
Our approach is to help families and friends to draw together these thoughts, and to put forward options which help them create something unique and meaningful. It may also be useful to contact a celebrant at this point who can help you think through some ideas on how to bring the memories of the person to life on the day. We know some lovely celebrants who could help.
Does a person have to be embalmed?
No, there is no legal requirement for embalming to be carried out. You can still spend time with a person who has died but who has not been embalmed.
Embalming involves replacing the liquids in the body with chemicals in order to delay the decomposition process and improve the appearance of the person who has died. Embalming products have evolved over the years and it is possible to use a more natural mix of products today.
If a body needs to be transported over long distances, or is being viewed over a long period of time it may be desirable. Having a body embalmed is an invasive procedure though se we believe it’s important to explain what it involves to families before they make a choice.
Some natural burial grounds will not accept embalmed bodies for burial because of the chemicals used.
If you are opposed to embalming, it may be advisable to expressly forbid it. At A Natural Undertaking we will only embalm if it is expressly requested, or the situation, such as repatriation, requires it.
Can I keep the body at home before the funeral?
In most cases, this will be possible. It will depend on how the person has died, the condition they were in at the moment of death, and how long it will be before the funeral.
With the right advice and support it is usually possible to bring the person home at least for a short time. This can be incredibly helpful in coming to terms with the loss, and is a tradition carried out by families that we have somewhat lost. We can talk you through the possibilities honestly and will help where we can.
In the meantime: The Good Funeral Guide has lots of information, photos and points to consider.
Do we have to have a coffin?
There is no law insisting that a coffin be used, just that the body be covered when transported in public. Some crematoria will however require that a coffin be used for a cremation, and obviously it’s a pretty good way to transport a body and has been considered as such for thousands of years.
But you can choose exactly the kind of coffin you want, or even make it yourself. We don’t mind if you find your own. Here’s a list of suppliers who will deal with the public – some still only deal with funeral directors.
And if you want, we can help you find what you’re looking for. The options are immense and sometimes pretty awesome!
Shrouds also are worth considering and are becoming more popular. They are a simple but beautiful alternative.
One thing you need to be careful of though before you buy anything is to ensure your crematorium will accept the coffin you have chosen. Always ask them before you buy one.
What can/can’t we do with the ashes?
Again, not many rules here. But some places are really not keen on people just scattering ashes willy-nilly. The lovely people at Scattering Ashes have a good guide.
You may want to keep the ashes at home, turn a treasured (or even humorous) ornament or item of crockery into a vessel or have the ashes turned into jewellery or art.
There are some beautiful and creative memorial options available which we can share with you – you may even have some ideas of your own.
What’s a natural burial ground?
Natural Burial is becoming a really popular choice as Local Authority cemeteries are filling up and as more people begin to feel that cremation ceremonies are rushed and much like a conveyer belt.
Natural burial sites can vary tremendously, but all offer a beautiful and peaceful alternative which many families prefer. The Natural Death Centre charity keep a list and can help you choose.
There are three astonishingly lovely sites within fairly easy reach of Birmingham – so just because you live in the City don’t think this isn’t an option!
These are: Westall Park and Sun Rising and Temple Fields.
Let us know if you would like us to take you to see them.
How can I keep the costs down?
We don’t have expensive premises or a fleet of hearses to maintain. This means we can operate at lower cost and essentially pass those savings onto you. We also believe that people should only pay for what they need. A big challenge today is that people think they are expected to do certain things, such as hire a limousine, pay for pallbearers and such like. For us, there are no expectations. People should do what they feel is necessary to mark the life of the person who has died in a way which is appropriate and meaningful for them.
Sadly some of the costs are unavoidable. The cost of a local authority burial or cremation can depend on whether you are resident or not. A grave or ashes plot in a natural burial ground will still need paying for.
But there are ways you can save money AND at the same time create genuine and meaningful ceremonies. Our Spending Wisely page contains ideas on how to keep the costs down.
Are you part of a large company?
No – we are completely independent: two friends keen to take our knowledge and creativity to make a big difference to the families and friends we meet.
Are there any other questions you have?
Feel free to call us to ask on 0121 444 0437 or send us your question using the form below.
Reviews on Google
Ralph Woodcroft
14:47 06 Dec 24
A Natural Undertaking organised my brothers funeral which took place on 29/11/2024.They were first class in every respect.I would recommend most highly.
Melanie Smith
17:04 03 Dec 24
I lost my sister earlier this year to an unexpected and terminal illness. I asked Carrie and her colleagues at A Natural Undertaking to take care of the funeral arrangements for my sister, as I was aware of the more personal approach, which lies at the centre of all their service. The circumstances were slightly complicated as my sister passed away in hospital in Manchester and both A Natural Undertaking and I are Birmingham based and the funeral service would take place in Derbyshire. However, none of this was a problem and all the necessary logistics were taken care of seamlessly. I cannot stress how much importance A Natural Undertaking place on their sympathetic and personal approach to dealing with individuals and families in the midst of grief and loss. At every stage they ask exactly what individuals want from the process and go to great lengths to make sure that the wishes of the deceased are also honoured. Carrie and her team looked after every aspect of the process for us and helped with all the formalities but – even more importantly – helped with the emotional process to enable us to give my sister the funeral service that we wanted for her.
Abigail Hall
13:28 03 Dec 24
I couldn’t imagine a more compassionate and professional firm to deal with the whole management of my mother’s funeral. Right from day 1 they provided advice and assurance on everything, from speaking to the coroners office, to helping shape a completely personal service which was absolutely fitting to the individual who was being remembered. Simply put, I could not have done it without them. To have Carrie there on the day of the cremation was such assurance and it went off without a hitch. The 5* rating should be 6* I recommend them so highly.
Good Fly
13:02 03 Dec 24
Woman with short blonde bob and the small dog, with the white car is a bit of Karen and very rude , very disrespectful. Needs to check her attitude, it’s very unpleasant .
olly gough
10:17 25 Oct 24
I cannot recommend A Natural Undertaking enough. The support they offered during such a difficult time was exceptional. They made themselves available to us whenever we had any questions and they provided such a high level of care to us as a family and to Mum. They took care of all arrangements so that we didn’t have to worry, and the service on the day was so personal and wonderful.
Susan Hannaby
17:23 11 Oct 24
Hard to put into words the support we had whilst planning a funeral for a 25 year old. We wanted something unique to him. The team supported this every step of the way with their knowledge and experience. They looked after my son prior to the funeral in such a kind compassionate way. My other son visited his brother almost daily.Callum had a send off he would have himself chosen. What an absolutely wonderful team.
Peggy Leung
23:49 25 Jul 24
Thank you Fran and the team for a 5 star service! We couldn’t thank you enough Fran for all your help and support every step of the way throughout this difficult time for my family. You are a caring person in nature, very efficient, sensitive, dedicated individual. We feel so blessed to have you as the funeral director for my mother. It was a beautiful service and a sad day for us. But you and Ruth (the celebrant) have made it so special and a memorable day for my family.Thank you so much!
Ricki Ward
16:33 30 May 24
My wife Kirsty wanted a funeral as individual as she was. I’m so happy we chose A Natural Undertaking to take care of Kirsty’s celebration. Thanks to Suzy and Fran for listening to our ideas and executing them perfectly.
Tom Turner
16:53 23 May 24
A Natural Undertaking couldn’t have been more helpful whilst taking care of my mum. I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Alan Crawford
18:26 02 May 24
Fran is a star. She's a lovely person who supports you brilliantly through the whole process, giving sage advice.
Dahnen Murdanaigum
16:52 20 Apr 24
Losing my mum was difficult enough without the added challenge of organising her funeral. But from the very first phonecall with Fran, her empathy and down to earth approach provided my dad and I with an immediate sense that we were in the right hands. She helped demystify a process that frankly would have been a struggle to navigate ourselves, supporting us every step of the way be that through matching us up with a celebrant (who was great), accommodating our often vacillating opinions, to creating a web page and slideshow, and providing a lovely space for us to come and visit my mum. The end result was a service, or rather a celebration, of my mum that I shall forever remember with a smile. A Natural Undertaking are so good at what they do that I would recommend their services without a moment's hesitation.
Barbara Carter
19:53 14 Mar 24
The team at a natural undertaking provided an absolutely first class service.From beginning to end, I felt supported and empowered in making the arrangements for my partner. Carrie in particular came up with some beautiful and brilliant suggestions for planning the funeral which made it the very special occasion it finally turned out to be. The whole thing worked wonderfully well and I felt it turned into a pitch perfect tribute to my partner, which I think she would have greatly appreciated.The feed back I have been getting from many who attended and some who watched remotely has been universally complementary, many saying it's the best funeral they have ever attended! Very highly recommended.
Lulu Foster-Young
13:15 08 Mar 24
Fantastic service from start to finish. We were looked after by the wonderful Kerri. Cant thank you enough. Much Love, The Youngs xx
Andrew Lillington
17:40 23 Feb 24
Kerri and the team were so helpful with planning my father’s funeral. It was a very difficult and sad time for my Mum. Kerri took away the stress of planning the perfect farewell.We were so pleased with Dad’s services. Ruth was the celebrant at the crematorium and she told Dad’s story with passion, as if she had known the family her whole life.I would strongly recommend a Natural Undertaking to any friends and family. Thank you.
jayne Harper
06:00 09 Jan 24
We lost our mother in November and decided to use A Natural Undertaking as I had previously been to a funeral directed by them and was impressed. I must say they went above and beyond throughout the whole process which helped us greatly in our grief. The funeral was january 8th the most bespoke beautiful final farewell to our beautiful mom which was exactly what she deserved you helped us do her proud Thank you so much. A special Thank you to Kerry Dunn who was outstanding even working in the background whilst she was unwell herself.I would highly recommend A Natural Undertaking simply the best.
Kay Yardley
14:28 20 Dec 23
A friend recommended A Natural Undertaking, a friend who is very hard to please. He wasn’t wrong to recommend them. Carrie has such a warm and caring character, she is just perfect for taking all of the stress and worry out what is a very emotional and challenging time. Carrie was always very quick to respond to any questions that I had and she was also great for recommending a celebrant and a venue to hold the wake. I wouldn’t hesitate to highly recommend A Natural Undertaking.
Steve Baker
15:20 24 Oct 23
Being independent was a deciding factor the other was meeting Fran who immediately put me at ease at what was a distressing time. If i could i would give more than five stars and a huge thank you from me and my daughter.
Susan Jacobson
07:44 03 Oct 23
Not sure where I start to express how ‘ A Natural Undertaking ‘ helped me through the most difficult time. They put their arms around me, physically and emotionally. Helped me beyond any expectations I may have had from a funeral director. Nothing was too much trouble, even helped resolve my IT issues.The Celebration of Life for my husband, Simon, was as perfect as it could have been. That was down to A Natural Undertaking. They took care of my husband, and they took care of me too.My thanks to Fran, Kerri, Carrie and the team.
Amanda Watkins-Gmail
10:51 18 Aug 23
My mom and I organised my Dad's cremation with Suzy and the team at A Natural Undertaking. They were professionalism embodied, but more importantly at such a sad time, they were understanding, respectful and above all kind. They listened to what we asked for and didn't in anyway push or question our requests. They made everything very clear and easy and our family are grateful for their help and support.
Nicola Jones
19:33 15 Aug 23
Would recommend this funeral director. Nothing was too much trouble. They were very professional and they kept me informed throughout. Their attention to detail was outstanding. Any changes were carried out as requested. The celebrant they recommended could not have been better. They were very caring and my sister had a beautiful send off that she deserved. I wish to express my thanks to all staff at a Natural Undertaking especially Suzy.
Becky Greenhill
19:31 14 Aug 23
When mum passed away at home, it was like handing her to a loving friend. I cannot praise the services provided by a Natural Undertaking enough - caring, compassionate and human. Mum's funeral was exactly as she had planned - a wonderful celebration of her life. Ladies please keep doing what you do, you make such a difference.
Nicky wilson
21:12 13 Jul 23
Fran & her beautiful team , were incredible, they turned the most heartbreaking episode into a heartwarming journey, that none of us could ever have imagined, Fran gently drew our wishes and requests out of us, Thank God she did ! We were so broken ,however Fran & her team managed to created the most powerful memories for us ! Bless you ( angels) thank you
Chris Maciel
17:02 07 Jul 23
Fran and Suzy were angels born to arrange funerals. We needed an undertaker close to our home in Kings Heath. We found them on the internet. From the moment we met them, they made us feel we had made the right choice. Both beautiful women liaised with my son and we all felt the VIP treatment shown and given to us. They treated my husband of 53 years as if he was still alive calling him Edmund instead of deceased. The whole funeral was arranged very efficiently and all the people attending said how lovely it was. I can never ever thank the ladies enough. If ever you need an excellent funeral home please use them. They take a burden of your shoulders with their excellent execution in everything that is needed. God bless them.Chris Maciel (wife)
Roxsamme Wilson
07:59 26 Jun 23
I cannot praise Fran at A Natural Undertaking enough.I lost my partner & we have a 3 month old baby together.Fran knew I wanted his funeral to be very special and different. I had so many questions and requests and she held my hand every step of the way, nothing was too much. She made me feel like part of her family & I will be forever grateful that she helped me through the hardest experience of my life and made such a special send off for my man.She brought so many ideas to the table, it didn’t feel feel like a funeral, it felt like a magical send off & she lead over 200 motorbikes to the crematorium.Thank you so much Fran & the team, if I could give more than 5 stars, I’d give you 1000
Leslie Hughes
23:19 18 Jun 23
I really can’t give the ladies at A Natural Undertaking a high enough review, Fran and the team were absolutely amazing. Nothing was too much trouble in the care of my son Fraser ..from multiple viewings from many members of family and friends to managing an escort of 200 motorcycles to the crematorium. Everything we needed as a family, support, a hug, advice was always there and the surroundings were perfect to make you feel comfortable. Ladies you are all angels ..my son would have appreciated all your attention..thanking you all so very very much .. Leslie ( mom) 🖤x
Simon Howarth
17:01 12 Mar 23
Thank goodness for A Natural Undertaking! Carrie and her team were fantastic throughout, providing my late mom and our family with the sensitive care and consideration required at a difficult time. The whole experience was 1st class, from recommendation of a celebrant to suit the occasion, the florist to provide the perfect flowers through to the order of service, ceremony and wake in celebration of my mom’s life. Thank you so so much. Simon, Richard, Criddy, Jude, Sam, Lulu, Abel, Abi, family and friends.
Chris W
00:33 29 Jan 23
I can't thank A Natural Undertaking enough for the incredible job they did with my dad's funeral. They made everything so easy and stress-free for us during such a difficult time. From their compassionate and understanding staff, to the personal touches that were made to our ceremony, it was truly a meaningful experience that we will never forget. I would highly recommend them to anyone who needs help planning a funeral.
Nigel Lacey
10:47 09 Jan 23
I am so very pleased that we found and chose A Natural Undertaking to arrange mum's funeral service. They were professional, compassionate, supportive and diplomatic throughout and gave good advice. Suzy looked after mum from start to finish and obviously genuinely cares about the service offered. Suzy visited us at home and gave us many helpful ideas and guided us when unsure, making things as easy as possible for us and took a weight off our minds. Equally, their office is light and bright so it did not feel claustrophobic when we had some time sitting with Mum in her casket. The white wicker casket was beautiful and the natural flowers very appropriate.Suzy was easy to contact and responded very quickly to any queries. We chose a white electric hearse which was obviously quiet and reverential.We felt fully supported throughout the whole process and could not have asked for anything more. Thank you so much for offering such a vital service with such compassion at a time when people so need your support.
Linda Marshall
11:07 10 Oct 22
A Natural Undertaking was recommended to me for my husband’s funeral. I am so grateful - my daughter and I were really happy with the care and attention we received from Suzy. Nothing was too much trouble for her, from the first meeting to the day of the funeral. The service turned out to be exactly what we wanted – non-traditional and personal to our family. We received lots of compliments afterwards, so I want to thank them for brilliant organisation and support, helping us through a very difficult time.
Vishal Tween
14:44 08 Oct 22
I cannot not recommend A Natural Undertaking highly enough! They have been amazing in helping me organise a truly fitting send off for my mother. Fran has been so helpful, kind, understanding and patient with me whilst I fumbled my way through the (new to me) process of organising a funeral, offering superb advice, guidance and reassurances. Thank you for helping us organise the perfect, personal send off!
Lesley Houghton
10:47 21 Sep 22
We were so pleased to have found A Natural Undertaking for Mum's funeral which took place this week and would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone. A loved one's funeral is so important and the team were able to help us achieve the personal and relaxed one we had hoped for. Carrie came to meet us to make initial arrangements and that made the process so much easier too. They assisted with choice of celebrant and Kathryn Day was also wonderful, both before and on the day. Their web page link is also such a good way of being able to communicate information to friends and family prior to the funeral. Finally, the little white Nissan Leaf was just the right choice. Thank you again to everyone at A Natural Undertaking.
Andy Gudge
13:49 30 Aug 22
My wife of almost 50 years died quite suddenly at the end of July. A Natural Undertaking was recommended to me and from the first conversation we (my daughter and I) had with them to the exchange of emails after the funeral their professionalism, compassion, kindness and understanding was quite admirable and very touching. I cannot recommend them highly enough.
Lorraine Hester
15:12 12 Aug 22
It's hard to put into words how highly I can recommend a natural undertaking. Frans calm, reassuring, knowledgeable advice and support helped us on so many levels throughout the whole process after unexpectedly losing my mum. She managed the whole process often prompting me gently and quickly responding to any queries I had. I knew mum was in a calm, respectful, caring place and this meant so much. Thank you x
Khirstie Bromage
19:28 01 Aug 22
I wanted to say thank you for the care , support and compassion when it came to organising our mums celebration of life service in January.You went above and beyond to make sure it was perfect for mum. I can’t thank you enough for the care you showed for our autistic sister.I can’t recommend a natural undertaking enough, arranging a service is so emotional but was made easier by all of you.Mum would have been proud of everything we were able to do for her.Thank you so much.
Imelda Stevens
14:46 26 Jul 22
Fran & her team - what a find! I had a bespoke structure in my mind for my adored husband’s funeral not knowing if some of it would be possible. A Natural Undertaking made it all possible. Their advice, suggestions & overall approach (calm, quiet, compassionate & empathetic without being in the slightest bit obsequious) illustrated the way forward regarding funeral planning without a doubt. Bern’s Celebration of Life was perfect. “The Celebration by which all others will be measured” & “The best funeral I have ever been to” are just two from a large number of similar comments I received during the days that followed his funeral. Their “non corporate” premises provided an intimate & comfortable environment in which to talk about Bern which made us (myself & Bern’s daughter) feel 100% comfortable in the knowledge that he was in good & caring hands & not just a monetary figure on the bottom profit line. Independent & unique - I cannot recommend them highly enough - they were brilliant!
Jane Summerton
14:43 13 Jul 22
Suzie was very helpful and welcoming and made the situation so much more easier than I was expecting, so different from previous experience with other funeral undertakers.The communication between Suzie, Westall Park, the celebrant Jess and the flowers from Carole at the Tuckshop was wonderful and I felt very relaxed about the day.
Jo Southerton
14:43 25 Jun 22
Can 100% recommend A Natural Undertaking. Having no experience with loss they supported me through the whole process with professionalism and sensitivity. They are such kind sincere people who really care about getting it right. Thank you
Suzanne Lazarus
11:18 22 Jun 22
It is difficult to write a review for such a sad and devastating time as the loss of a loved one but I felt it important to do so as this company, and Fran in particular, were invaluable to my family and I during the most difficult time. If this review helps to direct someone else to their service, and their support, then it is worth it. Fran was not only efficient, knowledgeable and practical in all of her help but treated us all with the most dignity and care. I can safely say that if felt like we were being supported by family. Nothing was too much trouble. Home visits really helped my children be involved, and all options were considered to make my husbands send off personalised, warm and filled with love. I cannot thank them enough.
Adam Jo
08:52 13 May 22
Many thanks to Carrie, Fran and their team for arranging my Nan's funeral. As per her wishes, the funeral was traditional and everything was done to the finest detail with nothing being too much trouble. More importantly, they showed a lot of compassion to the family during such a sad time, and we can't thank them enough. Highly recommended.
L C
09:51 21 Feb 22
A pleasure from the very start to have Fran and Susie in support. We had a calm, quiet approach to the funeral planning, really good advice on all fronts - especially celebrants, venues and much more - which resulted in a sad yet joyous occasion as we said goodbye to Sylvia. This seemed just right for us, a fitting send off and some marvellous memories. This is the way ahead for the funerals and we thoroughly recommend.
wendy beddows
12:51 17 Dec 21
We lost our 30 year old son to a motorbike accident in September and our World fell apart. It was a family member who recommended A Natural Undertaking and I'm so glad she did. Carrie was amazing, so understanding and caring. Nothing was ever to much trouble. Our sons funeral was a very unique one, we tried to do what we thought he would have wanted. It was so difficult trying to think about a decision when your going through the worst time in your life but Carrie made it so much easier. We would recommend A Natural Undertaking 100% they are simply the best.
S J Knight
21:36 11 Nov 21
Carrie & the team at A Natural Undertaking are just absolutely amazing. They conducted my brothers funeral with extremely sincere thoughts, pride & dignity. My brother was a young man when he passed away so needed something to reflect this within his funeral. A Natural Undertaking put us in touch with people to make this unique to him and the send off he deserved, even under strict covid restrictions.I cannot thank the team enough 🙏🏻Sarah Knight
Matthew Ingram
12:49 09 Sep 21
Natural Undertaking organised both my Mum's and Dad's funeral. With my Mum's (2018) they helped my Dad organise a very personal funeral that aligned with my parent's beliefs and wishes. When my dad passed (2021), we returned to natural to have as similar service as possible.For both occasions they provided a friendly, compassionate service to help create a celebration of a person's life. They help you understand the options and provide the information you need to create the service you wish to make for your loved one. They are always on hand if you need to make changes or ask questions. I thank Carrie, Roxy, Fran and the rest of their team for all they did for my parents. I would not hesitate to recommend them.
Sandra Yates
08:37 28 Aug 21
So glad we found a natural undertaking.In such a difficult time it was lovely to find such professional and caring people.Carrie & Fran listened to our wishes and did exactly what we wanted. They found us David the lovely vicar, who, also was caring and compassionate.After, everyone commented on how smooth things went, and how the day was memorable.This was an indication of how good a natural undertaking are, and, it gave us comfort to know that we made the right decision in choosing them.Highly recommended. Five Stars
Tania Khanahmadi
10:25 26 Jul 21
An amazing and unique service, so glad we found them!When our mum died, we didn't want a typical funeral. We didn't know what we wanted, but the cliche "celebration of life" was closer to what we wanted than anything else.Carrie was absolutely amazing. We knew straight away we wanted them after the initial sympathetic conversation.Carrie is so loving, passionate, caring and helpful. Nothing is too much, she does so much and makes it all look effortless.She told us we could have whatever we wanted and she helped us give our mum a loving and simple ceremony, with personal touches our mum would have loved, that involved and included all the people she cared about and who cared about her.Carrie feels more like a friend or a member of the family. She is a beautiful person with a heart of gold, knowledgable and so good at what she does.Thank you so much Carrie and your fabulous team!Tania & Helen
David Hitchman
11:30 24 Apr 21
We contacted Fran and Carrie after looking at their website. They were very responsive and were happy to make their service fit in with what we wanted for our daughter. Perhaps more importantly, we had confidence that they would properly look after our daughters body. The death of a loved one is always upsetting, but Fran and Carrie and their team made the process easier and made little suggestions along the way which really helped. Our experience of using A Natural Undertaking was a positive one and one that we would recommend to others.
Ray King
04:55 23 May 20
I cannot speak highly enough of A Natural Undertaking. Fran and her whole team provide a very professional and efficient service with the care and compassion which is so important at a time of grief. In such a difficult time of the Covid pandemic, this especially more stressful experience was made easier by their very personal care.
Jamal Shabba
13:43 26 Mar 20
Truly a remarkable company to use for such a horrible time. Their knowledge of the industry provides a lot of comfort and are very willing and happy to move to in keep with requests. Would recommend them to anyone that should ever have the misfortune of needing them. They genuinely turn a horrible situation into the event the deceased would want it to be.
Chris Hallmark
08:38 07 Mar 20
Carrie and Fran have built a business that feels genuinely different. They were warm, friendly and very responsive. They wanted to help us create the funeral that was right for our family, and to remember Dad in our warm and slightly quirky way. They even indulged us with the custard jokes. I cannot recommend them more highly and wish them every success with their alternative take on remembrance.
Gillian Washington
18:06 29 Jan 20
A Natural Undertaking is an undertakers with a difference. No stuffy offices with men in black suits. Just lovely helpful and caring people. Lots of choices were available and nothing was too much trouble. We did not feel pressurised or rushed into making decisions. Our whole experience was dealt with total empathy and efficiency. Would highly recommend them. Definitely 5 stars.
Amanda Smart
18:50 20 Jan 20
We were so thankful for all that Carrie, Zed and Fran did to help us through the period following the devastation of Oliver's death. The sense that they really empathised with the pain of what we were going through and their way of guiding us, while encouraging us to do what was most helpful and most reflected Oliver's life was so empowering. You can't re-do a funeral! It was so important to us that it was 'right' and they made that easier at a time when we were struggling to think clearly. The service they provided was so personal and sensitive. Thank you!
James MacLaren
16:04 11 Dec 19
Carrie, Fran and everyone at A Natural Undertaking were fantastic in arranging my Mum's funeral. Carrie was keen right from the start to make sure that everything was just so, despite the fact that we were working on a budget. Everything was clear and well explained (in fact, from beginning to end, communication was exemplary). Fran was fantastic in putting together the order or service as well. They communicated with all of the relevant parties, such that everything came together seamlessly.I hope that I never need to, but if I need to arrange a funeral again, I won't hesitate to give them a call.
Elizabeth Logan
06:40 12 Nov 19
I can't speak highly enough of Carrie, Fran and the entire Natural Undertaking team. Their compassion and professionalism were outstanding. The funeral and the celebration of life for my Father-in-Law were just what he and the family wanted, we couldn't have asked for better. The Natural Undertaking team were there for us from the start, from their calm reception area to their suggestions for flowers, locations and support with all those little details - they just smoothed the way. I would recommend them in a heartbeat.
Rachel Gregory
06:45 12 Oct 19
Absolutely wonderful company. Understood our family’s wishes completely. Ethical and their pricing is incredibly fair. Thank you so much for making a difficult time much easier for us.
Rachel Plant
11:40 08 Oct 19
From start to finish Carrie, Fran and zed were the most wonderful undertakers we could have asked for. They were so much more than just funeral directors, they were supportive, respectful and inspiring. Our family had an idea of what we wanted for Holly's funeral and everyone at A Natural Undertaking helped guide us with her wishes. Holly wanted a natural burial and it was in her quirky nature to have a creative and diverse farewell which is exactly what she got.Death and grief is extremely hard especially when a loved one is so young. We felt like we had an opportunity to help others through this process as a result of everything they had to offer us. Our family, our children & friends were all involved (as per our wishes) thanks to the huge effort and organisation of these wonderful people at A Natural Burial.Thank you so much for everything you did for Holly and family. We will hold you in our hearts forever x
Lisa Small
09:19 02 Jul 19
From our first meeting with Fran to the day of our son's funeral, we were treated with care, empathy, dignity and understanding. The whole team at A Natural Undertaking, Fran, Zed and Carrie, paid attention to the smallest of details in the planning of his funeral, carefully explaining everything to us in a way which was clear but sensitive. Their handling of the arrangements ensured that he had a beautiful and fitting send off. We could not have been given a better level of care, and we would highly recommend them to anyone who wants to give their loved one a unique, individually tailored farewell.
Linda Higgins
18:07 06 May 19
We would like to congratulate Fran and Cassie for looking after our dear friend Joan.From the start to finish the care, kindness and attention to detail was second to non. We were given help and support with all the arrangements and we felt that the stress, of loosing a loved one so suddenly, had been taken off our shoulders. They helped to turn the day into a wonderful tribute to Joan.We would highly recommend this wonderful service!
Chris Lee
15:50 15 Apr 19
The service provided by a Natural Undertaking was perfect.Fran and Carrie advised and guided us through both the process and the decisions that we needed to make for my father’s funeral with thought and understanding. They advised us what was possible and made constructive suggestions without pressure. They then calmly undertook the organisation of the service itself with calm efficiency despite late inputs from ourselves. The resulting service was both personal and appropriate to say goodbye to my father from myself, our family and his friends.I was specifically appreciated that Carrie found time to discuss in general the workings of the undertaking business which one at other times have little time or inclination to investigate. It certainly helped me during this time.I whole heartedly recommend this company.
Jane Arstall
17:19 14 Apr 19
Carrie and Fran are amazing! Nothing is too much trouble for them and they go the extra mile to make sure that people get exactly the funeral they want. We had a big funeral at Cambridge Road Methodist Church and wanted to use a YouTube clip of my husband playing the Birmingham Town Hall organ which had been his special 60th birthday treat. Carrie managed to arrange an audio clip so that everyone heard Mark playing at his own funeral, which made the service really special. I know Mark would have loved the service. Thanks Carrie and Fran - I would recommend you to anyone.
Kamala Kay Mann
05:50 09 Apr 19
Carrie and Frances bought a heart centred approach to a very sad and difficult time with the death of my brother. They organised the funeral in a week and it ran so seemlessly, so smoothly that the image I get when summing up how I feel about their services is a beautiful Swan gently gliding through water. Thier compassion, kindness and ability to listen, guide and respond softens my heart as I write this. Their attention to detail and having everything covered was such a massive weight off the family’s shoulders. We felt completely held. It seems strange to write this but they were a breath of fresh air to what is in essence is a very difficult time. Thank you so much Carrie and Frances - just like Swans gliding through water, you made a very difficult time seem like a heart centred natural undertaking. K Mann
Giles Darby
13:40 19 Feb 19
Professional, sensitive, efficient and compassionate from start to finish. Their personal, alternative and fresh approach was exactly what we wanted yet without compromising all the finer arrangement details, which were dealt with perfectly. I can’t recommend them highly enough at what is always a difficult time.
Mike Abrams
17:59 30 Dec 18
A Natural Undertaking were recommended to us following the death of my wife, by a friend who had used them previously. From our first meeting, we felt we were in good hands with a team that could talk us through the complexities of the arrangements and discuss the range of options available to us in a personal and very caring way. Working together we planned a service that included a number of unique elements that reflected the exceptional individual who sadly we were having to lay to rest. On the day, the arrangements worked perfectly and the feedback from friends and relatives who attended has been very positive. I am so glad we worked with A Natural Undertaking - we received a very personal and caring service and the whole team were a pleasure to deal with.
Simon Wilkes
15:16 20 Dec 18
As a family we decided to go forward with a direct cremation and hold our own service outside a church environment. Even though this was with our fathers wishes it is sometimes easy to think you must follow the 'traditional' route. Fran & Carrie were both supportive in helping us ensure the day was the right mix of sadness and celebration. It was the little caring things which made the difference. So if you want the right service without feeling you are still in the 1950s then Natural Undertaking will provide a first class service whether its a simple option like ours or a full bespoke option.
Nerina Villa
11:02 20 Sep 18
Right from my first phone call Fran at A Natural Undertaking was amazing. She was kind, warm and comforting at a time when that is exactly what you need. She gave me wonderful advice and made sure that we were able to create the most wonderful, individual funeral for my mum that still makes me smile when I think of it. They were there at every step of the way with support, advice and practical help. Thank you so much.
