A memorial service allows grieving family members and friends of the departed to come together and celebrate the life of the loved one they lost. This celebration can take various forms and tones, depending on the personality and preferences of the individual you are remembering. If you’re planning one, here are a few ideas for paying tribute to the departed.

How to Memorialize a Lost Loved One

1. Collect Donations

Sending flowers to a memorial is a common tradition, but sometimes they aren’t necessary or don’t feel right. Instead, you can encourage friends or family members to donate to an organization your departed loved one was passionate about. Supporting a cause can be a life-affirming way to keep their memory alive.

2. Create a Memory Table

Your loved one’s hobbies and interests were an important part of their life and what many people will remember them for. A table featuring some of your loved one’s favorite items will give those who knew them a chance to share memories and make the event more personal. For instance, you can display the uniform of a proud veteran or provide guests with treats like cookies and cupcakes to remember an avid baker.

3. Start a Memory Board

Memory boards are similar to memory tables, except they allow guests to participate. Instead of creating the display yourself, provide a bulletin board or similar surface where attendees can pin up their favorite photos and other memorabilia from their time with the lost loved one. Not only does this make the entire service more personal, but it also gives everyone special insight into the effect the departed had on others’ lives.

4. Commission a Painting

A commissioned piece of art can often convey more of a person’s spirit than a picture. If you have time before the memorial service, hire an artist to paint a portrait of the departed. Many talented artists will work from photographs and can create breathtaking pieces that will give friends and family members something to focus on during the service.

5. Give Your Guests Keepsakes

Small souvenirs will make guests feel like part of the ceremony and give them something to remember the departed by. A simple charm on the table with the name and birthday of the deceased can be an attractive, tasteful favor that friends and family can take with them. Every time they look at the keepsake later, they’ll get a comforting reminder of their lost loved one.

No matter how you decide to remember your loved one, you can plan a touching memorial service with the help of T. P. White & Sons Funeral Home. This locally owned funeral home has served friends and neighbors across Cincinnati, OH, for five generations. Throughout the years, they have grown to understand how unique this time of need is to each individual. Visit their website to learn how they can help you plan a memorial service, or call (513) 231-7150 to speak with a compassionate team member today.