Decide which public address the cemetery should use
Some cemeteries can launch quickly on a hosted Custodia Serena path, then connect a custom domain later. Others already own a domain and want the public website to use that address from day one.
The best choice depends on the timeline, who controls the registrar account, and whether the domain is already connected to email or another website. A domain change should never break staff email.
Explain DNS in plain language inside the dashboard
Cemetery staff should not need to guess what a CNAME, A record, or nameserver means. The dashboard should explain what record to add, where to add it, and when to wait for propagation.
If nameservers are used, the instructions should clearly explain that the domain's DNS management moves to the platform. If a CNAME or A record is used, the instructions should show the exact host and value.
- Show the current domain status.
- Explain whether the hosted path or custom domain is active.
- Show exact DNS values and registrar steps.
- Warn staff not to change email-related records casually.
Verify the secure public website before promotion
After DNS changes, test both the plain and secure versions of the domain. The public website should resolve to the correct cemetery, load with HTTPS, and show the right logo, favicon, privacy pages, and public search settings.
Do not print or announce the custom domain until the live page is stable. The hosted path can remain useful while DNS finishes propagating.