Losing a loved one is never easy, even when you know it is coming. Planning the funeral adds another layer to that grief. However, it does not have to all be a mournful event. Depending on the circumstances, you may choose to have a celebration of life instead. This means celebrating the person's life, accomplishments, and passions instead of mourning their death. Here are some ways you can make that happen.
Consider Where To Hold the Event
Most funeral services take place in a church or a funeral home. However, if you want to make it more of a celebration of life, somewhere outside may be a better option. Consider a park or a backyard, for example. These can be great options for keeping the mood upbeat and positive.
Make the Dress Code Colorful
There is no need to wear all black for a celebration of life service. In fact, it may be better to wear something that honors your loved one's memory. You can encourage people to wear their favorite color or something that supports their favorite sports team. This dress code helps keep the mood lifted and can make it a more fun experience.
Ask People To Share Stories
When announcing the event, include in the invitation that you would like people to think of stories to share if they're comfortable. Putting it on the invitation gives people time to think instead of being put on the spot and feeling pressured to answer immediately. Hearing these stories can bring laughter, joy, and peace to those attending.
Incorporate Their Passions
See if you can incorporate the deceased's passions or hobbies into the memorial service. Did they have a special recipe for banana bread that everyone raved about? Were they avid bird watchers? Did they love music and have a talent for playing an instrument? Evaluate their hobbies and what they love and see if you can't make that a part of the service.
Share Photos
We live in a time when people are almost always taking pictures. Sharing these pictures can be another great aspect of a celebration of life. Ask people to bring photos if they have them and put them together into a slide show. You can have this slideshow running throughout the service.
Find a Place To Establish a Memorial
Think of where your loved one liked spending a lot of time or what they were passionate about. Use this information to establish a memorial for them. For example, was there a church they attended for years? Were they passionate about gardening? Planting a tree, donating a park bench, or starting a garden are ways to create a memorial that all can enjoy for years to come.
Ask for a Donation to a Charity
Often, people ask attendees to donate to a charity instead of buying flowers. Consider having a donation box people can use to donate money. The charity you choose is up to you. For example, if the deceased was an avid animal lover, you may consider donating it to your local humane society or animal shelter.
Livestream the Celebration
Whether it's because they're out of town, have COVID concerns, or have other obligations, not everyone will be able to attend. Livestreaming the event can make it possible for people to attend worldwide, and you'll be thankful for the recording after. Put a link to the live stream in the invitation, and share it on social media so people know where to find it.
Remember, this day is about honoring your loved one, not having a picture-perfect celebration of life. Take the pressure off and let it be a casual event so you don't get stressed about the details or the cost. Enjoy your time and use it to remember your loved one and the things they loved.
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