One of the most touching ceremonies that I have officiated is the Celebration of Life, also known as a Memorial Service. Not everyone belongs to any particular faith, or religion, however they still wish to have a service for their deceased love one. This is especially true when a family member is cremated. The service may take place at any location of the family’s choosing, which may or may not be at a funeral home, or church, but rather at a venue such as a restaurant, function hall, or a special location for the scattering of ashes. This provides a place for those who are left behind to gather for support and to reminisce, an opportunity to celebrate the life and accomplishments of a loved one, a chance to say goodbye, and the focal point from which the healing process can begin. Such a service identifies that a person’s life has been lived, not that a death has occurred. It also notifies the community that this person has died so that people beyond the immediate family can grieve for this person as well.

A Gathering of Friends is a less formal event. It allows family and friends to share their loss and share treasured memories of the deceased. This can include a brief memorial service and light refreshments or luncheon, and can be held at any appropriate location.

A minister or a non-denominational celebrant can co-officiate with the family.  As part of the service, family and friends may share personal thoughts, memories and feelings about the deceased love one. Often times a memory table is used to display personal items of the deceased, as well as the urn in the case of cremation. A memorial board typically features a collection of family photographs and can be displayed on an easel so that visitors may reminisce about their life experiences with the deceased.

Officiation by a celebrant is a relatively new concept in funeral services, similar to officiation by a Justice of the Peace at a wedding. A celebrant will officiate at a funeral service with little or no religious involvement, depending on the family’s wishes. 

I would be very happy to meet with you and your family to listen to your stories about your loved one, and to help you create a unique, personalized ceremony.  I will listen to your ideas about what you want to see done or not done, help you to decide if you wish to have music or any special readings that you would like to have incorporated into the service. A memorial ceremony will speak when words fail those who are grieving. Therefore, I would be honored to assist you in any way that I can to help ease the sadness during the loss of your loved one.

Please click on the Fees Link to see the pricing for this service:

http://www.weddingofyourdesire.com/fees