Following a death, families often rush out to spend thousands of dollars on a monument. Monuments are used to memorialize the deceased and can be used to mark the area where remains have been buried. As lovely as these strong, ever-lasting tombstones may be, there are other ways to memorialize your loved ones that are far more budget-friendly.
Photographs
Pictures are treasures that we keep in many places – our phones, framed on our walls, or in albums. Putting a collection of pictures together in a way that suits your lifestyle is a popular way to remember those we’ve recently lost. Scrap-booking, putting together a memorial slide show, or even making ornaments with photos are just some of the ways to remember your loved one.
Cremation Jewelry
For those requiring something to carry with them at all times, jewelry is another option for people to keep their loved ones with them at all times. Whether it’s cremation jewelry or just a locket with a photo or lock of hair, these items often bring comfort to those grieving.
Memories of our Loved Ones
We can’t always depend on our memories alone to bring us comfort during difficult times. We often have to reach out to others to hear stories and share memories of those we have lost. Try placing a jar for guests either at the service or in your home and ask friends and family to write their most favourite story about your loved one and place it in the jar. Refer to this jar on special occasions or on days when you really just need to remember. An alternative for our tech-savvy friends, try a video compilation of friends and family members sharing their cherished memories. If you are really organized, it can be shared on social media or a copy can be made to distribute as a keepsake.
Re-Purposing Belongings
In an age where we as a society need to be far more conscious about recycling, re-using, and reducing, why not re-purpose some articles of clothing of your lost one into a pillow, a blanket, or a stuffed animal? These items can be cherished by guests or by younger members of the family for years to come.
Our Own Memorial Garden
There is always at least one avid gardener in each family. Why not plant your loved one’s favourite flowers and plant a memorial tree too? Some families choose to scatter or bury some cremated remains in the garden as well. It may also be nice to include a memorial bench or a personalized stepping stone to make the natural tribute more special.
Be Charitable
There may have been a cause that was special to your loved one and families may choose to establish a charity to help that cause. It’s a great way to create a legacy. However, this type of work may not be for everyone. Instead, as a way to commemorate an anniversary, family and friends can also volunteer as a group or even raise funds for a charity that would bring them joy.
Music is Meaningful
An integral part of any funeral service is music. We find great comfort in music as it gives us time to reflect and reminisce. Lyrics also have a way of verbalizing things we can’t find a way to say ourselves. As a keepsake, it may be nice to share a ‘mixed tape’ or a playlist of all your loved one’s favourite songs. Share with family and friends. Music has a way of bringing all of us together in love and loss.
Writing a Memorial
For those skilled with a pen or keyboard, it may be nice to put together a poem, a memoir, or a series of short stories. Share them on a memorial page set up on social media for everyone to embrace.
Funeral professionals are here to help facilitate the process in the days following a death. We are here to help you move forward in any way that we can by directing you to services and products that may be of use. Sometimes though, great comfort comes from creativity and knowing what is right for you. Find a Funeral Professional that respects that and let them help you along the way.
