If you are going to be holding an outdoor funeral service for a family member, planning one that honors them may seem like a daunting task. The following tips can make the ceremony memorable and help you, your family, and friends say goodbye to your loved one in a unique way and begin the healing process.

Balloon Release

Purchase some helium balloons to hand out to each guest who attends the ceremony. Provide file cards and pens and ask each attendee to write one of their fondest memories of your loved one. Use a hole puncher to create holes in the file cards after they have been filled out and attach the cards to the balloons with pieces of string.

Invite everyone to stand together towards the end of the ceremony to release the balloons. As the balloons drift away, each person can take time to reflect upon the message that they wrote and remember your loved one as they gaze at their balloon.

Pool Of Memories

Set up a small pool or large bucket and fill it with water. Place floating candles inside of it. Ask everyone to stand around the pool or bucket while holding hands. Instruct the attendees to take turns sharing their fondest memories of your family member as the candles drift through the water. Once each person has taken a turn, recite a poem that describes your loved one as each guest blows out one of the candles.

Picnic At The Park

Hold the ceremony at a local park that your loved one enjoy spending time at. Set up blankets, folding chairs, and a canopy for the event. Place vases full of your family member's favorite foliage next to a photograph of your loved one. Prepare sandwiches, salads, and cold beverages for everyone to enjoy during the service. The informal surroundings will allow everyone to relax and enjoy the outdoor surroundings as they speak candidly about your loved one.

Take photographs of the scenery in the park and the guests who attended after the funeral service has ended and make duplicate copies. Create small photo albums to give to your guests in the near future so that they can remember the event with fondness.

If you decide to use one of the previous tips, share special memories with your family members and friends during the funeral service that will help everyone cope with the loss of your family member. Click here to learn more about funeral services.

Share