Sometimes it is not about what words you choose, but rather how you say them. If the thought of delivering a somber speech from behind a podium makes you cringe, Lighten wants you to know that it’s okay to think outside the box. Think as far outside the box as you would like until you arrive at a memorial tribute that is worthy of your loved one’s life story.
We are sharing experiences that we hope get ideas flowing for an uplifting and completely customized life celebration. The following examples do have one thing in common, though… They are all totally unique.
The Talking Dog | Memorial Tribute Example #1
Wait, a talking dog? Yes. With the help of some clever video editing, of course… Lighten had the opportunity to host a virtual memorial service in which the family wanted their loved one’s dog to be able to express his sentiments in a pre-recorded video. It was such a unique idea and, at the same time, one we couldn’t believe we hadn’t heard before. The relationships we hold with our pets can be some of the most loving, caring, and personal ones in life. Naturally, including something that close to the heart made a perfect fit as a memorial tribute.
Consider: Relationships
When assembling the story of your loved one’s life, we suggest that you consider their relationships with people, animals, and even experiences. A traditional eulogy or tribute is typically delivered by the children of or other immediate relatives of the loved one who passed. Are there other people who could highlight important aspects of their life where the family wasn’t necessarily closely involved?
The Blooper Reel | Memorial Tribute Example #2
We collaborated with a family who embraced the opportunities presented by pre-recorded video in a similarly playful way. The virtual memorial service included many touching elements, such as a recording of the scattering of the loved one’s ashes. But toward the end of the service, the family wanted to include something that was closer to “fun” than “touching.” They accomplished this by collecting the best outtakes from the pre-recording process. The loved one being honored, who is described as amazing and a free spirit, would have appreciated her family and friends enjoying that bit of levity.
Consider: It’s okay to laugh
While it’s not uncommon for people to include little jokes here and there during a memorial service, we are suggesting that it’s okay to take it a step further. For example, are there scenes from movies or stand-up specials that you know your loved one would want played at their end of life celebration?
The Puppet Show | Memorial Tribute Example #3
We had the unique opportunity to work with a daughter who decided to interpret her father’s greatest attributes in the way she knew best: through puppets. As the owner of a children’s puppet theater, this daughter leaned into her creative talents to give attendees so much more than a line-listing of great things about her father – the puppets discussed her father’s greatest attributes, recounted great memories, and even sang a song in his honor. It was creative, fun, and most importantly, brought smiles to everyone’s faces.
Consider: Illustrative Experiences
In the example above, the family member used her own unique talent to create an experience. You could also consider the experiences with which your loved one had deep personal ties. Lighten has curated some greatly popular in-person experiences, such as The Big Screen for theater lovers or movie buffs and The Sports Fan for those who never missed a game.
Whether you decide to utilize a virtual memorial service format or create an in-person experience, Lighten can help. Begin by telling us your loved one’s unique story and we will curate a memorial worthy of their life.
