Memorial Arrangement Ideas for Loved Ones Who Choose Cremation
Whether you’ve found yourself coordinating a memorial service for a loved one with a clearly outlined preplan or you are suddenly involved in making unguided, tough final arrangement decisions, the responsibility of getting it “right” comes with a lot of pressure. Planning can feel tremendously arduous. But, it doesn’t have to feel so overwhelming.
For most, sharing and communicating the life, legacy, and respect for their deceased loved one is an important step in grieving. And, the staff at Davis-Struempf Funeral Home & Crematory can help.
Here in Mableton, GA, funeral homes with cremation services have become quite popular because it is an affordable, flexible memorial option. Here are some tips from our deathcare experts regarding a post-cremation memorial service:
Urn Arrangement
At a traditional funeral, the casket is the central focus. At a post-cremation service, it’s up to you to choose the role of the cremated remains. Some families choose to create a focal arrangement on a table or altar to place the urn alongside flowers and memorabilia fitting to the deceased’s preferences, such as:
- Playing cards
- Favorite board games
- Photos of special memories
- Books
- Shadow boxes
Food Services
Traditionally, food is offered to guests at a memorial service. Why not present foods the deceased loved one enjoyed in life? Examples:
- Popcorn. A popcorn machine is a whimsy touch for guests of a known popcorn lover.
- Favorite cake or dessert. A funeral does not have to be somber in all aspects—a colorful cake in the flavor(s) the deceased loved most would fare as a loving treat for grieving guests to share.
- Homemade meal. Survivors often choose to present their loved one’s favorite homecooked meal: “Momma’s Cornbread Casserole” or “Grandmother’s Secret Recipe” are a lovely tribute.
Eulogy
A eulogy is often a difficult responsibility—but an important one. They can be somber, sad, funny, or anything in between. Here are a few tips to writing a heartfelt eulogy for your loved one at their Mableton, GA funeral home gathering:
- Collect memories. Sprinkling a few well-known memories into your delivery will help guests feel united in remembrance of their late loved one.
- Select a theme. Would your loved one have preferred their gathering to be lighthearted or melancholy? Perhaps they outlined their preference in a preplan. Choose a theme to help guide you.
- Organize thoughts. That school age “beginning, middle, and end” as a guide will help keep the eulogy organized. Consider beginning with how you knew the deceased, how you see others have been connected to them, what their life meant to you, personally, and what their legacy should mean.
- Practice. Speaking in front of others can be intimidating. Practicing what to say and how to say it will help.
- Unwind. However possible, find ways to relax, breathe, and gather your wits beforehand.
Davis-Struempf Funeral Home & Crematory wants to make your loved one’s funeral and cremation arrangements in Mableton, GA just right. Please, call us at (770) 944-2900 or visit our staff at 1975 East-West Connector, Austell, GA 30106.