Losing a loved one, whether a family member or a friend, comes with a lot of confusion and unresolved emotions.
Bringing yourself to accept the reality of the loss and picking the pieces up to carry out your duty of organizing a memorial service requires a lot of strength and courage.
If you aren’t mentally prepared, the process of grieving the loss of your loved one can be all-consuming, so it’s advisable that you seek the help of a professional funeral service provider when taking on the daunting task of planning a memorial service.
A memorial service differs from a traditional funeral service; while in most traditional funeral services, the physical body is present, in a memorial service, the nearest and dearest of the deceased gather to honor and pay tribute to their loved one’s life.
Memorial services can be held right after the funeral or even weeks after, depending on the deceased’s religious preferences and personal values. However, the proceedings at most memorial services have similar elements, like families gathering to share stories, memories, and readings.
But if you want to organize something different and unique for your loved one which will directly align with the preferences and the values of your loved one compared to the conventional traditions, the following are unique ideas for memorials for loved ones.
1. Planting a Memorial Garden
Instead of a conventional memorial, plant an honorary garden or dedicate a tree in your loved one’s name to create a living memorial. This preserves their memories and offers a serene setting for reflection. In the years to come, this living memorial can bring happiness, solace, hope, and perhaps even inspiration to future generations.
A memorial tree is an ideal catalyst for creating a brand-new family custom. Close relatives can gather for a memorial service every year to watch the tree grow. You could even create a memorial garden as a tribute to your loved one if they had a knack for gardening. Some families may even opt to scatter their loved one’s ashes in the garden.
2. Releasing Paper Lanterns
Releasing something physical into the sky and watching it flow away can be a great way for you to release your grief. In most cases, releasing something into the air symbolizes letting go of one’s emotions in a given situation. You could make this a family tradition by coming together every year to release paper lanterns in honor of the loved one you lost.
In some cultures and religions, releasing a paper lantern symbolizes letting remembrance and the spiritual connection between the Heavens and the Earth. However, it’s also important to be conscious of the safety aspects, especially since it involves the environment. Be mindful of your surroundings so you can pay tribute to your loved one in a fitting way.
3. Memory Capsule
Another lovely way to remember a loved one who has passed away is by creating a memory capsule. A memory capsule is a container or time capsule that contains objects, letters, and keepsakes that symbolize and preserve cherished memories of the deceased. It enables you to compile a unique collection of memories that loved ones can look back on in the future.
You can either choose to create one large capsule or create multiple small capsules for everyone to make them more personalized. You can include letters, photocards, and even items that were cherished by the deceased. This is a unique way to honor your loved one and may even be a therapeutic process for family and friends.
Unique ideas for creating meaningful memorials for loved ones
You always have the choice of hosting your memorials for loved ones at home and taking the conventional route, but considering the above-mentioned unique memorials can help create a safe space for everyone to grieve in a healthy way and heal while keeping your loved one at heart.
No matter which memorial you choose to undertake, professionals have experience in assisting with all types of memorials for loved ones, so consider hiring a funeral service provider who can guide you through the process and take the heavy burden off your shoulders.
