The purpose of a celebration of life, memorial service, burial, or other ceremony, despite their differences, is to allow those whose lives the deceased affected in large and small ways to express their respect and celebrate their memory. They also serve as a crucial phase in the grieving process, enabling the bereaved to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of their deceased loved one, as well as gain the support and companionship of others. Our funeral homes in Bellevue, WA also offer a celebration of life service.

Indeed, the most remarkable celebrations are extremely meaningful and capture the departed’s unique life and personality. With that, here’s how to plan a life celebration for your loved one.

1. Timing

A memorial or celebration of life can be held at any time after a person’s passing. You may opt to make preparations quickly, but waiting several weeks or even months is also fine. It can be tough to make decisions quickly following a significant loss; by arranging the event several months in advance, you can solicit the assistance of others or even hire a professional planner.

2. Type of Service

Choose the type of ceremony you wish to hold. Depending on the disposition of the remains, a number of event planning options are available.

3. Guests to Invite

After you’ve decided on the type of service and time of the event, it’s a good idea to create an invitation list. Consider first your immediate family, then your more distant relatives. Next, create a list of friends, and not just current pals; include friends from childhood, school, different occupations, and various locales.

4. Venue/Location

Fortunately in a celebration of life, you can also choose the place where the celebration will be held. So, you can decide where the life celebration will take place.

5. Readings and Readers

You may choose religious prayers, readings, poems, quotes, personal writings, or song lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased. Afterward, pick the reader or readers who will offer the documents.

6. Eulogist / Speakers

If you prefer to have a eulogy, you must select the writer and speaker.

7. Music

Pick songs, hymns, and other musical works that the deceased appreciated or that have special importance.

8. Food & Beverage

Food and beverage options include do-it-yourself (with the assistance of friends and family) preparation, hiring a caterer, or the venue’s full-service food and beverage service.

9. Photographer / Camera Operator

You may want to photograph or record the celebration in order to save the memories for years to come. You can assign this task to a family member or close friend, or you can hire a professional photographer.

10. Flowers & Memorials

Traditionally, people express their grief by sending flowers. Still, it is common for families to request memorial donations rather than flowers. You can say in the obituary, on social media, and on event invitations whether flowers or memorials are preferred, or if both are acceptable.

As you noticed all the decision-making will be yours to make when you choose a celebration of life. Now, if you need assistance and still have questions to ask, reach our company of funeral homes in Bellevue, WA.