DIY Memorial Service
The following checklist will help you create a memorable celebration.
Do-It-Yourself Memorial Service Checklist
How to plan a memorable celebration:
Memorial Service
- Select an urn that reflects your loved ones personality.
- Choose location for the memorial service/celebration.
- Choose floral arrangements.
- Select which photographs and memorabilia you’d like to display. Create video or make photo boards.
- Consider any customs, traditions, or religious rites that are important to you and your family.
- Select music and hymns, if desired.
- Choose a theme for decorations and personalized stationery at your services.
- Brainstorm any additional ways you’d like to personalize the services or pay tribute to your accomplishments, hobbies, personality, and life story.
Participants
- Choose a clergy member or officiator to preside over the service. An honorarium of $150-$200 is customary.
- Select any musicians whose talents you’d like to employ. An honorarium of $75-$100 is customary for each musician.
- Choose friends or family members to perform the eulogy, read scripture, or prepare a speech.
Will you have military honors? Call your local VFW or American Legion to set up.
Final Disposition
- Choose a cemetery cremation plot or columbarium for urn if appropriate.
- Select a memorial or grave marker and inscription.
- Decide who will keep the urn until burial or scattering.
- Decide who will scatter the cremated remains and where.
Reception/Luncheon
- Choose location for the luncheon: restaurant, hall, your house, etc.
- Choose a cater or order food. Plan for about 15% more than expected so you don’t run out.
- Choose decorations that are fitting for the deceased. Did they have a favorite color or hobby?
