A funeral is a way to both honor the deceased and comfort the living. To fulfill these purposes, a funeral service should feel personal. Many families want to memorialize their loved one in a way that person would have liked, so here are a few suggestions to create a heartfelt and individualized service.

Personal Touches for a Funeral

1. Venue

Churches and funeral homes are traditional funeral venues, but you might also consider having the ceremony in a place that was important to the deceased. Alternatively, you can make a generic setting feel more individualized with the right decorations, such as photos, treasured keepsakes, crafts, and your loved one's favorite flowers.

2. Music

Think about your loved one's favorite songs or artists when choosing music for the funeral. Also, ask others in your family for inspiration. Many family members and friends will have fond memories of your loved one relating to shared songs.

3. Clothes

Black clothing is traditional, but it is growing increasingly common to ask attendees to wear bright colors, or the deceased's favorite color. Many families feel this is a better way to honor the life, personality, creativity, and joy of their loved one.

4. Symbols & Ceremonies

A simple, beautiful gesture during the funeral can help guests to feel closer to the person they have lost. Some families choose to release birds, butterflies, balloons, or lanterns, sometimes with attached messages from the guests. A candle lighting ceremony can also be a touching addition.

5. A Meal

Around the globe and throughout history, sharing food has been a way to bring people together. A shared meal following the funeral will give attendees a chance to strengthen bonds, process their emotions, and share memories of the departed.

For help planning a personal and heartfelt funeral, contact Porto Funeral Homes. With 75 years of history serving New Haven County, CT, they offer compassionate, individualized care for grieving families. To start the planning process, call (203) 467-3000 for their East Haven location or (203) 934-5000 for West Haven. You can also reach out online.