Greetings Funeral Business Builders
It happened again this week…I met another fellow Baby Boomer and told him that I help funeral home owners change their business to meet the needs of our generation.
He replied, “Good. The last thing I want is the type of funeral my parents had.”
I get a response like that every time I tell someone what I do for a living.
The Baby Boom generation, born between 1946 and 1964, has a unique view of funerals and funeral homes that is quite different from that of their parents.
For the previous generation, funerals were often formal and predictable events. These ceremonies were deeply rooted in tradition, with specific rituals like open casket viewings and graveside services.
Funeral homes were seen as solemn places where respect for the deceased was the main focus.
Everything about these services was done according to long-standing customs, which were seen as essential parts of the grieving process and a final act of respect for the deceased.
In contrast, Baby Boomers have brought a new approach to funerals. For them, a funeral isn’t just a time to mourn a loss but also an opportunity to celebrate the life that was lived.
They’re less focused on strict traditions and more interested in creating personalized experiences that reflect the unique personality of the deceased. This generation is more open to alternative options, like cremation, green burials, or themed services.
The emphasis is on individuality, and funerals are now seen as a way to honor a person’s life in a meaningful and personal way. This change in perspective has forced funeral homes to adapt.
Baby Boomers don’t want the same traditional services their parents had; they’re looking for help in creating experiences that truly reflect the person being honored. As a result, funeral homes are now offering more options, including pre-planning services with personalized touches and multimedia presentations that celebrate the life and legacy of the deceased.
As Baby Boomers continue to age, their influence on the funeral industry will grow. They will push for more changes that match their values of individuality, creativity, and the celebration of life, shaping the future of funeral services.
Funeral home owners who don’t change their businesses to meet the needs of Baby Boomers won’t stay in business very long.
However, owners who change to serve Boomers better will see their business grow in the coming years.
Until next time
John
PS: Not sure how to succeed with Boomers? Click here to schedule a time for us to talk.
