Although nobody ever looks forward to a funeral, it is the last chance that people will have to pay their respects, and it can help with the grieving process if there are some personal touches added to the occasion. Funerals aren’t only about the person that died, but those around them. Below are some tips that offer help in personalising a funeral when planning ahead.
A Memory Board of Photos
There will be some great memories that you want to share with your friends and relatives. A good idea may be to have a memory board that’s full of pictures of those special times that you want them to remember too. It could be early childhood photos that might give people a giggle, images of some memorable holidays, your children if you have any, or even a special day like a wedding day.
Pre-Chosen Music
Music is an important part of everyone’s life. How many times have you heard a song playing in a car and it’s evoked a memory? If there is a special song that you love, or that has lyrics that are important to you – you can share that with your friends and relatives. That way – whenever that song plays, they will be reminded of you. You can have this song played during the ceremony.
Ask Guests to Bring Mementos
A funeral is a celebration of your life – and is an opportunity for loved ones to share their memories of you with others. It’s a good idea to perhaps encourage guests to bring their very own mementos. This could be a note, a card, or simply an item that reminds them of you. You can also ask that certain people read eulogies or readings for you. This tends to be a funeral tradition anyway, but if you plan some of your favourites in advance – it can make it more special.
Personalise the Coffin
Often people are encouraged to place cherished things in their loved one’s coffin. This could be a favourite book, a hat, photographs, an item of clothing – or even something humorous. This can be much more personalised than just having some flowers placed on the coffin and makes things that little bit more personal. You may want to compare funeral directors to see which ones are most accommodating to your needs, but you should find that they get requests like this all the time.
Planning your own funeral can be a daunting experience at any point in life but personalising it can make things a little less scary – and put you in control of the situation. It also means that your close relatives and friends can attend a meaningful ceremony and event that they know you would have wanted.
