After a loved one has passed, the last thing you may want to think about is planning a memorial service. But doing so is important to the grieving process, and honoring your loved one is a beautiful tradition. Family-owned Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home in the Greater Cincinnati area has helped families plan services for over 3 generations; here, they share a few things to consider when planning a memorial service. 

Master of Ceremonies

You’ll want someone to lead the proceedings, allowing those who were closest to your loved one to grieve during the ceremony. This person can be a professional funeral director or even a friend or loved one. They will guide others through the service, cue those who may have readings or wish to speak, and handle any other tributes that may be created, like a video or slideshow. 

Readings

Often, families will choose to include readings of various verses or excerpts during a memorial service. They don’t necessarily have to be religious readings; consider passages from a book they loved or  a monologue from their favorite movie. If finding a reading or two that works seems difficult, then consider replacing them with personal stories from speakers who are willing to talk about the deceased and their memories and relationship with them.

Music 

Music is not a necessity, but it does ease the situation. Often, a song or two is played as people are seated and then after the service as they depart. Consider playing music the deceased loved and tying that into the service, letting attendees know why this music was so important.

Always remember that every service is different, and the way you honor your loved one should be specific to them. There’s no right or wrong way to hold a service, and the more personalized it is, the more it will resonate with those who attend.

If you need guidance in planning a service, Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home in Cincinnati offers  professional funeral directors who can help. Visit their website to utilize their free arrangement planner tool. You can also call them directly at (513) 921-4144 to talk to a professional about your memorial service needs.