Personal, modern and entirely your own

At George Ball & Son, we believe a funeral should feel as unique as the life it celebrates. An alternative funeral moves away from tradition, allowing you to create a service that’s less formal, more personal — or simply different in all the right ways.

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What is an alternative funeral?

An alternative funeral is any service that breaks away from traditional expectations. It may be non-religious, held in a non-traditional venue, or follow a more relaxed, creative structure. These services can feel less formal and more reflective of the person being remembered.

Some families choose alternative funerals for environmental reasons, to reflect modern values, or simply because they want something more personal.

What’s included in an alternative funeral?

  • Funeral planning and guidance
  • Hearse or alternative transport
  • Choice of venue
    indoors, outdoors or private spaces
  • Coffin or casket options including natural and eco-friendly choices
  • Creative elements
    music, readings, symbolic acts
  • Burial, cremation or green alternatives

We offer clear, tailored pricing with no surprises. Whether you want a full celebration or a simpler ceremony, we’ll build a plan that works for you.

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Examples of Alternative Funerals

Modern, meaningful and made to reflect the person you’re remembering.

  • Celebration of Life Ceremonies
    Focused more on joy than formality, these events honour the person’s life through stories, music and shared memories — often with colourful dress, uplifting speeches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Woodland or Outdoor Services
    Held in natural settings such as woodland burial grounds or private gardens, these services offer a peaceful, environmentally conscious option for those who loved the outdoors.
  • Humanist or Civil-Led Ceremonies
    Non-religious services led by a celebrant, designed entirely around the individual’s beliefs, personality and values — without formal religious structure.
  • Family-Led Gatherings
    Informal ceremonies arranged and led by family or friends, often at home or in a meaningful place. These can be deeply personal and allow loved ones to shape the event in their own way.
  • Eco-Conscious or Minimalist Funerals
    A pared-back approach using biodegradable coffins, natural materials and minimal transport — chosen for simplicity, sustainability or budget considerations.
  • Themed Services
    Whether it’s favourite music, colours, hobbies or even a football team, themed funerals create a powerful sense of identity and celebration for someone with strong passions or interests.

Personal Touches – Make it Your Own

  • Music & Readings
    Choose personal favourites or live performances.
  • Natural Coffins
    Willow, wicker, cardboard or other biodegradable materials.
  • Unique Venues
    Gardens, halls, homes or meaningful outdoor spaces.
  • Symbolic Tributes
    Candle lighting, tree planting, or scattering petals.
  • Alternative Transport
    VW campervans, motorcycles, vintage cars – you decide.

Whatever you have in mind, we’ll support you with kindness and experience. We’ll handle logistics and legal requirements, so you can focus on making the service meaningful.

Our Simple, Supportive Process

Speak to Us

Call us any time to discuss your needs.

Get in touch

Planning the Funeral

We’ll meet at our office or your home.

Making Arrangements

We’ll take care of logistics, paperwork, and communication.

The Funeral Day

Our team will be with you every step of the way.

Aftercare Support

We’re still here after the service, whenever you need us.

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions?
Please contact our friendly team.

Contact us

Alternative funerals step away from traditional formats. They may involve different venues, styles, celebrants or values. They’re often more relaxed, modern, or creatively personal.

Absolutely. In fact, music and readings often play a key role in personalising an alternative funeral.

No. You can choose a non-religious celebrant, a family member, a friend — or no officiant at all.

Yes. We offer biodegradable coffins, natural burial grounds, and low-impact transport options.

We can usually arrange a funeral within 7–14 days, depending on your preferences and venue availability.

Not always — it depends on your choices. Simpler formats may cost less, while some bespoke elements may cost more. We’ll always offer a transparent quote.

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  • I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service we received from George Ball & Son during one of the most challenging times in our lives. When my father passed away, I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about how to proceed. However, the team at George Ball & Son was nothing short of excellent.
    Kathy Q
    Google Review
  • We had really good support from George Ball and Son from the minute my dad died; their care and compassion was excellent.
    All the funeral arrangements were made with minimal fuss, our wishes were easily accommodated and on the day of the funeral everything went smoothly.
    Thank you !
    Anne Brice
    Google Review
  • Margaret, Daniel & Rachel, Are so caring. They go that extra mile to help their customer. From our first meeting, to making my beloved husband look so lovely and peaceful, to the photograph, flowers and order of service and their attention to detail. Nothing was too much trouble. Everything they did was to perfection! I can't thank them enough.
    Carole
    Google Review