Funerals play a big role in the healing process. Not only do they serve as a way to honor the deceased, but they also provide an opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate the life lost, and support one another in the process. Making the funeral personal to the loved one lost is an excellent way to enhance the service. Whether the service is taking place in one of the funeral homes in Rockford, IL, a church, or some other location, there are some easy and effective ways to truly customize the service.

Change the Guestbook

When guests first arrive at the service, they will make their way over and sign the guestbook. This is the first opportunity to change things up a little. Rather than having guests just sign their names in the book, invite them to write a short memory or other note instead. This will make the guestbook a keepsake that you can look back on.

Personalize the Décor

Another way to customize the service is by the décor. This could be anything from using their favorite color to their favorite holiday for inspiration. For example, if they loved Christmas, you could include holiday décor and poinsettias. If they loved the color yellow, you could use yellow flowers, tablecloths, candles, or other elements. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look “traditional”. Guests won’t mind and in fact, may enjoy it as it can make them feel more connected to the deceased.

Display a Photo Collage

Creating a photo collage display provides a perfect opportunity to show off your loved one’s life and personality. You could add photos that show things like:

• Their wedding, graduation, or other big life events
• Childhood photos
• Photos of their first car or other things that were important to them
• Achievements, medals, and ribbons
• Images of them surrounded by friends and/or family
• Images of them enjoying their hobbies or passions

When choosing photos, you can ask other family members and even close friends for photos as they may have some great photos you have not even seen before.

Serve Their Favorite Dish

At the reception after the funeral consider serving your loved one’s favorite dish. Maybe it was something that was homemade by you or them. Perhaps it was a savory entrée from a local restaurant. Whatever it was, serving it at the reception as either the entire menu or part of it is a wonderful way to personalize this event. And don’t forget about the drink. Did they have something they always loved? Maybe sweet tea or lemonade? Perhaps a favorite beer or wine? Make sure to include this as well.

Final Thoughts

Funerals are special events that help us process our grief and begin the journey to healing. Personalizing these services is a wonderful way to honor and remember the deceased. If you would like more information on services at funeral homes in Rockford, IL, or more ways to customize your loved one’s tribute, contact us today as we are always here to help.