A Handful of Ways to Personalize a Memorial Service
It’s been awhile since we have talked about planning a memorial service for a family member or friend. Often, if the loved one had a pre-planning arrangement, the overall plan for the service may have already been outlined. Even so, there are always ways to add special touches to help those who are grieving and want to celebrate the one they have lost. Here are some ideas that may help you make the service very personal and special:
Create a Memory Table
Display favorite photos, treasured keepsakes, books, and personal items that reflect your loved one’s personality, hobbies, or achievements. It invites guests to reflect on the unique life they lived. You can ask attendees to bring something to contribute to the table.
Ask Guests to Share Stories
Whether spoken during the service or written in a remembrance book, sharing stories brings comfort and connection. Consider encouraging guests to write down a memory or message that the family can keep. If speaking at the service, it is recommended to have someone monitor the speakers to keep track of time.
Build a Personalized Playlist
Music can instantly bring back memories. Curate a playlist of songs your loved one cherished—perhaps their favorite artist, a song from their youth, or something that reminds everyone of them. You can play this while showing a video or have it as background music.
Set Up a Memory Jar or Tree
Place note cards and pens near a jar or decorative tree. Guests can write messages of love, gratitude, or even private thoughts they didn’t get to say. These messages become a cherished keepsake for the family.
Live Stream the Service
Many people want to be present but can’t travel. Live streaming allows family and friends near and far to feel included and say their goodbyes.
Offer a Keepsake or Favor
Consider giving out small keepsakes—like bookmarks with a favorite quote, packets of flower seeds, or custom candles.
Incorporate a Ritual or Symbol
Release butterflies, light candles, plant a tree, or invite guests to place a flower by the casket or urn. These small rituals provide a sense of closure and honor the transition in a symbolic way.
Display Their Words or Wisdom
Did your loved one have a favorite quote, saying, or something they always told others? Displaying their words on a sign, card, or program helps carry their voice forward and offers comfort to those grieving.
At its heart, a memorial service is about love and remembrance. Personal touches not only help the living say goodbye, but also keeps our loved one’s spirit alive in the stories, songs, and shared moments we carry forward.
Hilgenfeld Mortuary’s knowledgeable and experienced staff can help you plan a memorial service that is just right to celebrate the life of your loved one.