Helping families create a meaningful funeral experience is what drives us to do what we do. It helps start a healthy grieving process and allows families to celebrate life, their way.
Making sure you have a few things that are personalised & unique is the best way to put together a special & memorable send off. Here are a few ideas to add the all-important personal touch.
Choose a Personalised Casket or Urn
These days, there are a wide range of options when choosing a casket or urn. It is becoming more common to choose a colourful painted design or a customised pattern/theme. This could include favourite colours, national flags or even motifs from a particular hobby or interest. If you prefer a more traditional wooden casket, you could choose a particular wood that represents a loved one or where they were from. There are also more eco-friendly options such as wicker caskets or sustainable wood if you feel that would be a fitting tribute.
Songs
Whether it’s a hymn to be sung by attendees, or a send off song to be played as the casket is carried out, it’s essential to make sure the music is perfect for the occasion. You could use one of your loved one’s favourite songs, or something that brings back memories for you. You should also make sure that the music reflects their personality in some way and has a celebratory & uplifting message.
Give Out Books
If the deceased was a keen reader, they’re bound to have left behind a personal collection of books. To make best use of them, why not encourage funeral attendees to take one or two on their way out? This is a great way for everyone to remember your loved one, while learning more about what they were interested in.
Recite a Poem
Poems can reflect thoughts, ideals, and outlooks on life. If your loved one had a favourite poem, it could be the perfect way to express their views and the way they saw the world. If they didn’t have a particular favourite, perhaps write one yourself for an even more meaningful gesture. Alternatively, asking a child to write a poem and recite it can also be extremely touching, sure to create some truly special moments.
Serve Their favourite Food & Beverages
As well as the standard coffee and slices, why not add some personalised post service refreshments? Your loved one is bound to have had preferred hot or cold drinks, whether it’s peppermint tea or lemonade. It’s also very simple to arrange their favourite kinds of cakes, muffins or sandwiches. Whatever it is, make sure you have enough for everyone as you celebrate their life together.
Personalised Keepsake
What better way to make a funeral memorable than with unique keepsakes for friends and family to take home with them. It could be something decorative for the mantlepiece, or even a specially designed bookmark. Including a copy of your loved one’s signature or initials somewhere on the keepsake can also be a special touch.
There are no rules, and every family is different, so do what you feel is best. We hope that these ideas have sparked some inspiration if you are planning a loved one’s funeral. At Osbornes, our staff are able to assist throughout the entire funeral planning process. We can endeavour to realise any personal wishes you may have, just get in touch with our friendly team.
Helping families create a meaningful funeral experience is what drives us to do what we do.
