Undeniably, losing a family member, spouse, or friend can be a time filled with sadness, confusion, and anger. Hosting a celebration of life is a way to handle the passing while sharing joyous moments with others who are also grieving. Hosting a celebration of life event for your loved one is a spectacular way to honor them.
Budget
This event is a time for everyone to come together and celebrate, it is not the time to stress about money. Be realistic as to what you can spend on the celebration of life. If other family members or friends would like to donate funds or their time, allow them do so. It will be extremely helpful to be able to rely on a few others during the preparation and clean up after the event.
Set a Date
Select a date and time for the event. If there are people coming in from out of town to attend the funeral service, then an ideal time to host the celebration of life would be after the funeral while they are still in the area. Begin to compile the guest list.
Location
Once you have a close estimation as to how many people will be able to attend the event, decide on where the celebration will be located. If there will be a small group of people in attendance, hosting the gathering at someone’s home would be sufficient. For a larger group, look into renting a space at a local place of worship, a neighborhood clubhouse, or a nearby community center.
When choosing a facility, inquire if they provide seating and if the media equipment you may need will be available on site. The event location should be a comfortable and serene spot. If children will be in attendance, ensure that the location is kid friendly along with being handicap accessible for elderly guests or anyone arriving in a wheelchair.
Food and Drinks
Determine if there will be food available at the celebration of life. Catering the event can become costly. Consider doing a potluck where each guest can bring a side dish, fruit or veggie tray, dessert, drinks or disposable paper items. If you decide on potluck at the event, be sure to include the details of what food items you’d like for the guests to consider bringing when you send out the invitations.
Photographs, Music, and Décor
Gather photographs of the deceased that would be fitting to share at the event. There are a number of ways that you can showcase these images. A framed collage may be created from the photographs, a few photo albums can be put together, or a slide show accompanied by music can be placed on a DVD. If money permits, commission a local artist to create a painting or illustration of your loved one. Display the artwork on an easel for the attendees to view.
Having some of the family members and friends read poetry and share stories about the loved one who passed is a fantastic addition to the celebration of life. This gives everyone who will be in attendance a way to channel their emotions in a positive and healthy manner. A mix CD of the deceased relative’s favorite music is also an appropriate inclusion.
When planning the décor for the event, make arrangements based on the interest and taste of your loved one. If they weren’t a flower person then don’t make decorating with flowers a priority. Did they enjoy balloons or adore candles? The goal of the event is to represent the deceased and the things they enjoyed in life.
Invitations
Invitations can be kept simple and sent through e-mail. This is a convenient way to get in touch with a large group of people without having to place a phone call to each individual. Another idea is setting up an account with Socializr. It is a wonderful website that allows you to set up the event information online, customize invitations, and track RSVPs.
Along with the basic information about the event, include whether or not the guest should bring something to the event (food, photographs of the deceased, etc.) You can also create a map of the location on Mapquest and include the link to the map in your e-mail.
Keepsake
A final idea would be to create a keepsake for each attendee to take home with them. This can be a card with the loved ones photograph on the cover and information about them printed inside. If you choose to make a mix CD for the event, have additional copies of the compilation available for each guests to have a copy.
Don’t get too caught up in trying to plan a perfect event. Stay focused that the celebration is for someone who you hold close to your heart and is no longer with you. Stock up on Kleenex and celebrate their life.
