When we remember someone, it’s not the big things we miss most. It’s all the irreplaceable little things that made that person special.
Your celebration of life or traditional funeral service can be customized to reflect your character and passions and remind your loved ones of unforgettable memories and cherished moments.
We celebrate the details that make a life unique.
Key considerations for funeral planning
Before considering all the many ways to personalize a service, first consider what type of service you want. Different people want different things, and there's no right or wrong.
Your choice will be influenced by your religious and cultural customs, family traditions and personal preferences.
Think about:
How tightknit is your network? How large is your group of friends and family?
Do you like to keep things simple or do you love elaborate gatherings?
Does religion or spirituality play a big part in your life?
Would you prefer an uplifting event or a more somber ceremony?
Do you hold traditional values or embrace a more contemporary lifestyle?
Would you prefer loved ones to gather outdoors or indoors?
Regardless of whether you want an intimate, quiet gathering in a woodsy clearing or a jazz band on a patio with hundreds of people enjoying food and cocktails, your Dignity Memorial® provider knows just what to do to make it happen.
Plus, by documenting your wishes in your Personal Planning Guide, you alleviate the emotional burden on your loved ones—they don't have to guess what you would have wanted.
Here are a few ways to personalize a memorial service.
FOOD & DRINK
Food brings people together
Offering food or beverages before, during or after a funeral service is an increasingly common choice among the families we serve. They tell us that sharing a meal or toasting to their loved one’s memory brings comfort, joy and healing.
That’s why most of our locations now offer catered receptions. By planning your funeral in advance, you can set aside funds to ensure this important rite doesn’t become a financial burden. Plus the options are endless.
FLOWERS
Flowers are an uplifting reminder of life's beauty
Flowers also add to a memorable story. Bouquets can be arranged in teapots, watering cans, cowboy boots, coffee cups and more.
Single stems in clear glass vases set a different tone than elaborate sprays spread around a room. You might also consider alternatives to flowers, such as small saplings or baskets of fruit.
Learn about the symbolism of different funeral flowers as you're deciding.
MUSIC
Every life has a soundtrack
Music can evoke memories of vacations and road trips, first dates and weddings, religious ceremonies and celebrations.
When thinking about your memorial, consider if live or recorded music feels more appropriate. Think about how photos and videos set to favorite songs can establish a tone and help tell your story.
Whether you want timeless hymns or a playlist of rock anthems, write down your choices in your planning guide and share them with your family to ensure your wishes are known. Here are 143 songs you may want to consider.
SPEECH
Words offer remembrance and closure
Poems, quotes, scripture or song lyrics are one way to remind people of the things you love and the unique way your mind works.
Is there a saying for which you're known? A go-to passage you love to share? A favorite verse you always turn to when you need a pick-me-up? Any of these things can be incorporated into your service and become touching parts of a remembrance. Think about it and write it down. Read more about eulogies here.
ATTIRE
Clothing can be a tribute
It's still traditional for guests attending a somber ceremony to dress in dark colors, though it's entirely appropriate if you'd like them to accent their attire with a pop of color.
Or you might consider asking attendees to wear something reminiscent of something you often wore—ornate hats or funny ties, for example.
Sports jerseys, team colors or attire that suits a theme—tropical shirts for a luau, perhaps—can add to the festive feeling of a more uplifting event.
DECOR & KEEPSAKES
Design helps express your passions
Transform a memorial into a tropical paradise, backyard barbecue or biker rally. From cooking to travel, running to reading, acting to origami, there are endless ways to tell a special story.
Display his golf clubs and give out personalized golf balls to guests. Or, if the beach was her happy place, set the theme as fun-in-the-sun, with sand, umbrella drinks and flip-flops for friends to take home.
Many people cherish a little something to remember a loved one by. Learn about funeral favors and keepsakes for family members.
We're here to help
We celebrate life with compassion and attention to detail. Working with an experienced planning professional is the best way to plan your service, make your wishes known and save your family from the twin burdens of guessing what you want and figuring out how to pay for it. If you've got questions about pre-planning your services, we've got answers.
We can help guide you through every step of the way: