When it comes time for funeral and cremation planning, so many decisions need to be made about disposition and the arrangements themselves that personalization can end up being an afterthought. We try our best to make sure that families know that services can be personalized.

After all, end-of-life gatherings are intended to celebrate and honor the deceased.

Personalization Provides Comfort

A Memorial Gathering or visitation focused on all the loveable qualities of the deceased is more comfortable than an impersonal service.

People find comfort through storytelling. When they share their feelings, they acknowledge the many emotions that accompany their loss. Memorial Gatherings and visitations cover the full spectrum of human emotion. We see smiles. We see tears. We hear anger and laughter. Most importantly, though, we hear people remembering all of the great qualities they’re going to miss.

Including personal effects as part of the service brings so many memories to the forefront of the conversation. If a loved one was known for her knitting, for example, having some of her creations available to see and touch can be of great comfort.

Pictures and videos are another fantastic way to give family members a chance to reflect on their most cherished memories. It’s a real opportunity for healing. Even the process of gathering the photos can be comforting.

Plus, everyone asked to contribute personal items will choose things with memories attached. It’s amazing how many times families learn something new about their loved one at the service.

For first responders, fallen military heroes, and honorably discharged veterans, the Patriot Guard Riders will appear as invited guests of the family to pay their respects. This 100% volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization aims to ensure dignity and respect at memorial services.

Personalization Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

It’s not hard to personalize your loved one’s service. Including their favorite food or beverage, playing their favorite song, or sharing favorite memories are all fantastic ways to honor someone who’s going to be missed.

Having a service as unique as your loved one is important.

They lived a unique life. They had their own strengths, weaknesses, dreams, and aspirations. An impersonal service just isn’t an effective way to pay tribute. It’s not an effective way to heal.

It just doesn’t do justice to the person everyone is coming to pay their respects to.