Tips For Planning a Meaningful Memorial Service

Families I serve are constantly at odds about proper or fitting memorial tributes for their loved ones. It’s easy for one to become overwhelmed with the busyness of life in general, especially after losing someone they cared for. There’s certainly at least one constant…when planning a memorial service, you can’t mess up. Always be mindful of events or accomplishments in the life of the deceased. Additionally, there may have been a special place (public park, etc.) that may provide the family or their guests needed solace. Often, families don’t realize that memorial services don’t have to be held at the funeral home, or their church. In more and more cases, families and guests alike are more comfortable in a setting where everyone can more easily be themselves, than in the cold sterile environment of a church or funeral home. Certainly cost should always be a factor. All sorts of venues from city parks, beaches, family farms, mountains, or favorite restaurants, just to name a few, have little to no cost at all. There’s no need to spend a lot of money on flowers either. Remember, sometimes simple is better, or at least more appropriate. Don’t try to overcomplicate the situation. Keep in mind that these types of services are meant to honor the memories and accomplishments of a recently departed, and in many cases they were simple people themselves. Try and not plan a service that wouldn’t fit the individual. The truth of the matter is that your guests aren’t there for fine food, wine, fancy table cloths, or trinkets, they are there to reflect on the deceased and their life and times spent with them. Humanistic services, or those services void of religious tones, are sometimes more appropriate. Yes, there’s always a place for our Lord, but maybe just not so much at this particular memorial service. If the family chooses for there to be no minister or officiant, just elect a family member or friend to keep things going. Some form of Order and formality may sometimes help the overall mood. A portable music player (usually battery powered) will be sufficient to play the selected music. Three songs are usually plenty. Always be respectful of your guests time. Most memorial services last about 45 minutes, much longer than that is too long. Your guests will probably need to go back to work. The main thing to remember is that you can’t go wrong. Your heart will guide you. Allow yourself the peace of mind received as you’re mindful of these important details as you’re planning a fitting tribute for your loved one.

Please give us a call if you have a loss of a loved one. We are available 24/7 to help you. We will walk you through our simple process and give you a free quote without any hidden fees.DFW: 817-910-4497Amarillo: 806-425-2449