We celebrate birthdays, graduations, and weddings with loads of panache, food, drink and gifts. So, why do we choose to keep funerals so gloomy? Globally the trend in funeral trends has shifted from sober and dull events to themed parties, wine tasting memorial services, even drive-thru funerals. We know not everyone would appreciate the smell of roasted coffee beans at a wake keep, but here are have a few novel ways to keep your passing in the mind of your mourners.
Remembering our loved ones doesn't have to end after the funeral. We'll keep them in our hearts for a long, long time, but giving keepsakes that family and guests will appreciate can also help.
Mementoes celebrating their lives can come in almost any form. Now, before you blanch at the potential cost, simply include it in your pre-paid funeral plan with the funeral home. Many of the keepsakes recommended are relatively cheap; some of them can even be made at home and given out at the wake.
- Flowers have been used, for decades, to help convey emotions, when words fail us. In an otherwise sombre wake, flowers can bring a splash of colour and pleasant fragrances. If the deceased had any favourite blooms, they can serve as a reminder of some of the things they loved. Funeral flowers are usually arranged to serve as a tribute. They are usually left at the graveside and in the funeral home. Sympathy flowers are generally smaller sized arrangements sent to the home of the deceased. They are a great choice to express sympathy and serve as a keepsake in memory of the recipient's loved one.
- Release of Doves – There is something about seeing birds in flight that makes hope spring eternal in our hearts. The white dove, in particular, represents peace, love and happiness. At a memorial service, a single dove or a flock can be released and help ease the grief of the family as they watch them fly away. Some funeral companies offer release of butterflies and even balloons. There's just something peaceful about seeing something fly away into the sky.
- Letters, Poems and Stationery - Sometimes, words fail us and it's only through writing that we can express our strongest emotions. Members of the bereaved family can pen their feelings on paper and have it turned into little keepsakes. Words can be printed on stationery, engraved on rocks, even beamed into the sky in a laser show. Use the power of words for grief catharsis.
- Tribute Quilts and Blankets – Quilts have been known to help with the grieving process. Heir soft all-encompassing nature helps ease the pain of a loved one's passing. Some people have said it almost feels like they are getting a hug from beyond the grave. Tribute Blankets, which can be personalized with the photo of the deceased and words of comfort, are given to family members.
- Everyone has some sort of smartphone these days. Video and pictures is a cinch to capture. You can use said footage to create a sideshow celebrating their lives. Funeral homes offer slicker post production editing, options to post online, create memorial sites or even stream the ceremony live. Use captured images in this celebration of life, and at the end, you can save it on flash drives and hand out to guests. Photos can also be turned into keepsakes like key rings.
- Candles – Memorial candles can be given as mementoes to guests to light in remembrance of the deceased. These can be customized by enclosing them in custom engraved holders.
- Art – Ashes from the cremation can be made into custom art or jewellery that is presented to family members. A truly unique gift that beats just sitting in an urn.
- Firework displays – Another way to send your loved one off, literally with a blast, is to incorporate their ashes into a firework display. This unique and beautiful service can be tailored to meet your specific needs. From loud and colourful displays to more subtle, yet flashy ones, the wake will definitely remain in guest's minds for a long time.
Everyone leaves with fond memories.
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