One of the best ways to remember and honor a loved one who has passed is to display photos at their memorial service. Guests enjoy seeing pictures because they give them something to talk about and admire while waiting for the service to begin. There are many creative and beautiful ways to display photos during calling hours, or at a memorial or cremation service. Gather photos from family members and friends that commemorate special occasions and times of togetherness through the years.

Creative Memorial Photo Display Ideas

1. Photo Collage

Tri-fold cardboard displays are available at most office supply stores. Cover the board with fabric and use double-sided tape to attach photos. You can add captions below each photo explaining when and where it was taken. Additionally, it’s encouraged to include your loved one’s favorite religious quotes, lyrics from a song, or line from a book.

2. Memory Table

Pick out special photos to display in separate frames on a table. If your loved one had any left, place some of their shoeboxes, or other items of varying heights, under a cloth to create various levels so all of the photos can be seen. Scatter other sentimental items like a graduation cap tassel, war medals, or cherished figurines among the photo frames. 

3. Easel Display

Display one large portrait or a photo collage on an easel near the service entrance or the deceased’s casket. A large piece of poster board or a beautiful picture frame will work as a backdrop.  You can embellish the easel with flowers as well, such as roses or tulips.

4. Tree of Life

A potted tree is a lovely way to display photos. If the memorial service is in the winter, you can still use a miniature pine tree. Hang framed pictures from eye-catching ribbons on the branches.

5. Memory Blooms

Gather small vases, attach a photo to the front of each one, and fill them with small bouquets or single flower blooms. Place these near the guest book at the memorial service, or scatter them around the room for guests to admire.

6. Picture Wreath

You can find a wicker, eucalyptus, or wire wreath at a craft store and cover it with photos to make a memory wreath.  Overlap the images, put them in chronological order, or embellish them with flowers or ribbons before attaching them to the wreath.

7. Slide Show

Create a slide show using digital photos and software like Microsoft PowerPoint or Windows Movie Maker. Add background music, such as the deceased’s favorite song or a hymn. Your funeral director can help you set up the equipment or they may have a system already in place.

Contact Herman-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Wisconsin Rapids, WI at (715) 423-5460, to help you plan a personalized memorial service for your loved one. Their services include original designs for memorials and register books customized with your family photos. Visit their website to learn more about their funeral arrangement, pre-planning, and cremation services.