As you begin planning for this unforgettable experience, let your loved one's life be your guide. To help you focus, here are some ideas that can make a world of difference in your service.
Personal effects and reminiscence - To begin personalizing a funeral, consider what was unique and memorable about your loved one. Think about his or her special qualities, passions, hobbies and pastimes. Was your husband an amateur painter? Consider holding a retrospective of his work. Was your grandmother a teacher? You may want to ask the school choir to perform at the service, or invite a former student to speak. Your creativity will provide a lasting, honorable representation of your loved one.
Music - Music can be a powerful way to remember your loved one. Today, many services feature a mix of religious and secular music played from a CD or even by a live musician.
Involve family and friends - While you might be somewhat reluctant to ask, family and friends may feel honored to get involved in your loved one's funeral. Your funeral director can help you create an interactive experience to help people who are grieving, especially children.
Speakers - Think about asking key individuals to contribute a remembrance, reading, poem or favorite story. Many times, such contributions can go a long way toward capturing the essence of your loved one.
Special touches - One way of making a ceremony more special is to create decorative touches such as candles, a special covering to drape over the casket or a photograph montage of the person whose life you are celebrating. Consider placing chairs in a semicircle or in small, intimate clusters around the room.
Mementos or remembrances - Hand out a small keepsake as friends and family leave the funeral, something that will later bring your loved one to mind.
Memorials - Dedicating a memorial to your loved one is a wonderful way of honoring them. Planting a tree or making a conuibution to a relevant charity can create a lasting mernory that will also benefit others.
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