Earlier this year I attended a memorial service. I had wondered what would be different from a funeral service - or if it would be really much the same (as it was only a week after the person had died). 

Well I was impressed!

The immediate family had had the opportunity to express their grief and farewell their loved one in private funeral service. At the memorial service the ashes were accompanied by a few meaningful objects that were closely associated with the person.  My experience was that it allowed extended family, friends and colleagues an opportunity to express their loss and support for the immediate family in a less intensely emotional ceremony most funerals I have attended.

I could see that the immediate family had valued their opportunity for a private ceremony where their emotions had been fully expressed, enabling them to feel more comfortable to participate in the memorial service. Those of us who were there were invited to speak about what the person had meant to us and share stories - that generated lots of laughter and a few tears. I noticed that is was far less difficult for the immediate family, especially the grandchildren.

All in all, it was a great way to make a farewell for a loved one just that little bit more manageable, yet at the same time meaningful and appreciated by the family.

If you'd like to talk to me about how we could create something like this for your family, please feel free to get in touch.