White doves have grown to symbolize love, peace, and joy, and many people choose to release them at the celebration of life for their loved one who has passed. Releasing the birds into the sky is a way to honor the spirit of the departed and create a tribute to their memory. From where you can release doves to who should do it, it’s natural to have several questions about this ceremony. To determine whether it’s the best way to celebrate the life of someone you’ve lost, consider the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this ceremony.

FAQ About Releasing White Doves at Celebration of Life Events

Can the doves be released indoors?

For the safety of the birds and the guests, handlers request that the white doves are only released outdoors. While the birds have a special diet to help prevent any potential accidents, releasing them outdoors will prevent property damage to the chapel or funeral home. Aside from preventing damage, doves need to be released outdoors to find their way back home after being released.

How many doves can be released?

Most dove release companies have the capability of releasing dozens of birds at once. However, you can control how many doves are involved in your event. First, you should call the handler to see how many birds the company has in their possession and how many of those are available for your event. Second, you need to decide on the tone of your event, how many people you want to participate, and how many doves you need to make the celebration of life successful. 

Who will release the doves?

Those attending the celebration of life are allowed to handle and release the white doves. Before the event, they are shown how to hold the animals and release them properly. If you choose to release a singular dove, the honor should go to a surviving family member, like a spouse or child. If multiple doves are being released, consider extending the honor to friends and relatives of the deceased.   

At what point in the service are the doves released?

If the service is taking place outside, you need to choose at which point in the service you want to release the doves. Most people choose to release the doves after any service or speeches have been given. If the service is indoors, you would want to release the doves when everyone has gathered outside. As this is the way you are choosing to say goodbye, you need to think about when the doves would be most memorable to those at the celebration of life.

If you are planning a celebration of life or memorial tribute for a friend or relative within 50 miles of Cincinnati, OH, contact A Sign of Peace White Dove Releases. Based in Erlanger, KY, the company will help you arrange a funeral dove release to make the event even more meaningful. They will also help you navigate how to plan the release. To discuss options, call (859) 727-3254. Visit the company online to learn more about what white doves symbolize and stay connected on Facebook for news alerts.