YP Spotlight YP Spotlight How do you spend your time outside of work? Is there anything in particular that you enjoy doing? Outside of work I enjoy hiking and exploring new places with my Newfoundland puppy, Philip, and traveling to see my favorite band with my best friend. I also really enjoy tie-dying and reading. What are three of your personal goals? 1. Learn to accept my limits. 2. Start each day on a positive note or with a good outlook. Allie poses with her Newfoundland puppy, Philip (photo provided) What are you proud of that you have achieved so far during your career in funeral service? I'm really proud of how far I have come since the time I started. In my career so far I feel I have made a lot of great connections with other funeral directors and I have worked hard to increase my knowledge and be able to problem-solve on my own. Looking back to when I started my apprenticeship, I remember I had questions on virtually everything, but now there is a sense of accomplishment in knowing I can do it myself and even be part of training for new apprentices coming in. I have also been able to put on some wonderful end-of-the-year memorials and tributes that I am proud of because the families enjoy coming to the service each year to remember and honor their loved ones they've lost that year. What are some important/notable trends you have noticed in funeral service? Families are beginning to move away from traditional services and leaning more toward celebrations of life at the funeral home. Obviously cremation is becoming more and more popular, but I also see more people stepping away from church services as well and opting to do something more personal at outside locations. Another thing I have noticed is a lot of people inquiring about green burial/biodegradable urns. 3. Stay persistent and reliable at work and to my friends and family despite outside obstacles. Who or what inspires you? I absolutely admire both of my grandmothers. They are both such strong, intelligent and selfless women who always put their families first and support us endlessly www.ogr.org | The Independent® 17
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