Memorials & Celebrations

Memorials & Celebrations

Unlike traditional funerals, memorials and celebrations of life are gatherings that usually don’t include a casket, although they may feature an urn with the deceased's ashes. These gatherings can be held weeks or even months after the passing, and can take place in various settings—such as a church, funeral home, community hall, or a place that held special meaning for the deceased and their loved ones.



While memorials and celebrations of life have much in common, they can look and feel quite different. Both are ceremonies bringing together people who have experienced a shared loss, but one often reflects longstanding traditions, while the other tends to embrace modern shifts in social values.

Two candles are sitting next to each other in the water.

The memorial services we create with families are thoughtfully tailored to honor the emotional and spiritual needs of those attending. These gatherings often follow a similar structure to traditional funerals, yet allow for a range of personal touches that make each ceremony unique and meaningful. Special elements might include chosen music or hymns that hold significance, readings selected to reflect the character or values of the deceased, and a heartfelt eulogy to celebrate their life. Through these personalized elements, the service becomes a tribute that resonates deeply with family and friends, providing comfort and a sense of closeness to the person being remembered

Memorials

A group of people are standing next to each other with their arms around each other.

A celebration of life centers around honoring the unique personality, accomplishments, and life story of the person who has passed, weaving these elements into the service itself. This type of gathering allows for more creativity, encouraging family and friends to incorporate meaningful and personalized touches that reflect the individual’s spirit. Since celebrations of life are often held after the person’s remains have already been cared for through burial or cremation, there is typically more time to thoughtfully plan and organize the event. This extra planning time helps create a memorable and heartfelt tribute, allowing those attending to focus on joyful memories and the lasting impact of the person’s life.

Celebration of Life

Two candles are sitting next to each other in the water.

We’ve found that many families today are looking for something beyond a traditional funeral. When time is taken to display photographs or organize the event around a favorite hobby or interest of the person who has passed, the service often feels more personal and meaningful to those in attendance. These special touches help create a ceremony that truly honors the individual’s life and resonates deeply with family and friends.

Personalization

If a personalized service would be meaningful for your family, consider reflecting on questions like these:


  • What activities or hobbies did your loved one enjoy?
  • What qualities made them unique?
  • What was their profession, and how did it influence their life?
  • Were they spiritual or religious?
  • Did they take pride in their cultural or ethnic background?
  • How would they most want to be remembered by others?
There is a small island in the middle of the lake at sunset.

For families who have chosen cremation for a loved one, the next step is deciding what to do with the ashes. Many people choose to scatter them, and while this practice is generally unregulated, there are a few guidelines to consider.

Ash Scattering

  • Consider the preferences and wishes of the deceased.
  • Be mindful of local rules, especially in public parks, waterways, or other shared spaces.
  • Choose a meaningful location, such as a place that was significant to your loved one.
  • Ensure you have permission if scattering on private property.
  • Plan for the weather, as wind conditions can impact the experience.
  • Consider having a small ceremony or moment of reflection at the chosen location.