Personalization

There are great strides being taken to provide personalization for the funeral ceremony.  New avenues are being explored such as:

• non-traditional music

• poetry or readings of special verses or memorabilia

• specialized caskets, vaults and other merchandise

• display of photographs, etc.  

This trend of personalization, creates a service that is a reflection of the life lived and celebrates that life.  A continuation of this type of service would naturally flow over into the visitation, or wake when friends gather with the family and view of the body.  The viewing is less formal and scheduled than the funeral, and allows for a wider range of ideas.  There are many ways to personalize the viewing:

Music - with today's technology, you can create a personalized CD or tape with the deceased's favorite songs.  Music is very important to many people because favorite songs usually reflect an era or a style dear to the deceased.  If the deceased was a musician, the instrument could be displayed with favorite sheet music on a music stand.

Photos - Framed photos and portraits can be displayed on tables and easels.  Family snapshots can be shown on our special board with magnetized frames.  Photo albums can also be used to chronicle a person's life.

Hobbies - Most people have a hobby or something they are passionate about.  A quilter can have one of her quilts displayed either over the casket or on an easel.  Someone that worked with wood could have a few of their handcrafted creations displayed.  Trophies and awards make wonderful additions to the viewing as they reflect the skill and accomplishments of the deceased .  Also, a collector could have some of his prized pieces brought in to be shown.  The ideas or limitless on how articles can be utilized in or near the casket, around the room or in floral arrangements.

Memorabilia - Items collected and treasured over a lifetime, were often sources of fond memories for deceased and those closest to them.  Memorabilia from military service, college days, special occasions such as weddings and other items can also be used to provide a special touch for the viewing.  Favorite poems can also be incorporated either by framing them and setting them out on tables or using them in the memorial folder distributed during the viewing.  

Special items on display during the viewing not only provide an insight into the life of the deceased, they also offer an opportunity for family and friends alike to reminisce.  While family members may need help in putting these items together, the time spent and memories shared will be well worth the effort.