Delivering a eulogy at a loved one’s funeral is an opportunity to give a beautiful tribute to their life. But, if you’ve never written such a speech before, it can be difficult to know how to begin. Thankfully, following these simple tips will let you craft a fitting addition to the celebration of life.

4 Ways to Help Prepare a Eulogy

1. Draw on Your Personal Interactions

Trying to encapsulate an entire life into a single speech is an impossible task. Focusing on your personal interactions with the deceased, however, will provide a more intimate foundation for the eulogy. Asking simple questions can help get you started. How did you meet? Was there one interaction in particular that illustrates their personality? The answers to these questions will spark a good starting place and conjure up some good memories, helping set a loving tone.

2.  Don’t Be Afraid of Humor If It’s Appropriate

While many funerals are more formal in tone, a eulogy can be a wonderful opportunity to have a well-meaning laugh. If the deceased had a vibrant and humorous personality, there’s no reason you can’t incorporate the same amount of liveliness into your speech; after all, it’s a celebration of life.

3. Be Mindful of Length

Because writing a eulogy may be the first time you’re confronting your feelings about the death of the loved one, it can be a very emotional and cathartic experience. This can make it difficult to stop writing after you start. Keeping your speech to around five or 10 minutes, however, is a good rule of thumb. It’s also good practice to recite your speech a few times before the funeral to make sure you’re comfortable with its length.

4. Speak From the Heart & Don’t Fear Mistakes

Those attending the funeral aren’t expecting a perfect eulogy. Speaking from your heart with love will easily eclipse any stumbles or other tiny mistakes that are made. Keeping this in mind will allow you to create an honest celebration of life instead of relying on a stock template for your speech.

Arndt Funeral Home LLC has been offering funeral services to residents of the Rochester, NY, area for more than four decades. The compassionate staff will assist in planning a beautiful celebration of life including details such as urns, burials, and funeral pre-planning. For more information, call (585) 225-6350 or visit the website today.