As you plan a funeral or memorial service for your loved one, there are many traditions you can choose to follow. However, to honor your loved one and comfort family and friends, a funeral service should also be personalized to reflect the life of the deceased. Here are a few ways to create a meaningful and unique service. 

Personal Touches for a Memorial Service

1. Dress Code

While tradition dictates black clothes for a funeral, it's also common to ask attendees to wear colorful clothes to remind them that your loved one was vibrant, creative, and positive. Ask for a specific color, or simply request that your attendees not wear black.

2. Open Mic

It can be comforting to share treasured memories of your loved one and to hear what others cherished about them. Include time for attendees to share their experiences with your loved one. This can take the place of a traditional eulogy, or it can be added on to the service.

3. Arts & Crafts

If your loved one enjoyed making art, display some of their crafts or artwork during the service. Ask attendees beforehand about any gifts they may have received that they can lend you for the event; this will showcase the creativity, uniqueness, and thoughtfulness of the deceased.

4. Memorial Video

If there is time before the memorial service, gather as many photos and video clips of your loved one as you can from friends and family. Then, find the ones that illustrate the deceased's personality, interests, relationships, and history. Use them to create a moving slideshow video to show at the service.

For help planning a touching and meaningful memorial service, visit Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Inc. Funeral Home in Middletown, NY. With over a century of history serving the families of Orange County, they offer personalized services, including military funerals. To speak with a member of their team, call them at (845) 343-2142 or reach out online.