Others choose to use a memory table of photographs and other memorabilia instead. It’s a good idea to bring up positive memories and stories you have about the deceased as well as the. At the same time, keep the tone of the event in mind when giving your condolences. When giving condolences to the family, you’ll want to express your condolences at the loss of your loved one and relay your sympathy to the family. Sometimes you can reveal their character by detailing one short moment in their life experience.Īnd use it as the centerpiece of the event. While a celebration of life is a memorial service meant for celebrating the life of the deceased, it’s still an event that requires tact and respect.

Not every biographical detail needs to be highlighted rather you're trying to capture their essence by telling revealing anecdotes or stories.

What details of your loved one's life do you want to share with guests?.

But, if your loved one didn't appreciate music (and lots of folks don’t), it may be more appropriate to read chosen spiritual selections, or excerpts from literature. Music is an integral part of life for many people, and a celebration of life is the perfect event in which to showcase the meaningful music of your loved one's life.

What readings and music should you include?.

It's entirely up to you we've even seen 'pot luck' celebrations of life where guests actually sign up to bring select foods and beverages. What you serve may depend on the theme of your celebration of life, or may be based on your loved one's favorite dishes.

What food or beverages should be served?.

This question involves thinking about what your loved one liked most about their life and gives everyone a remarkable space to share memories, laugh, and even cry together. We've heard some exciting celebration-of-life ideas over the years.

What group activities would be appropriate?.

Either way, you'll want to select those people who have shared a close relationship with the deceased and have something meaningful to contribute. Many times family members or friends will be very direct about their desire to make a short presentation at the celebration of life other times you need to come out and ask folks if they would be willing to publicly share their thoughts and feelings. However, many families today hire a non-denominational celebrant to oversee the celebration of life. If your loved one was religious, you may opt to have their pastor or church minister perform these tasks.

Who will orchestrate or conduct the event?.

Be sure to check in with out-of-town relatives and friends about their situation before settling on these critical details. Here's where your imagination is tempered by any scheduling or travel-related issues facing those who will be invited.

Where, and when, should the event take place?.

You can add new names to the list as you go along. Write down the names of everyone you think would want to be there and then set it aside. The number of guests define the where, when, and how of your celebration of life.

Celebration of life