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Creative Ideas for a Funeral ServiceWriting a Tribute - Probably one of the most frequently requested creative element in a funeral service these days is a personal tribute. This can be read by yourself, or by someone you elect or by the celebrant.
Composing a Poem - A poem doesn't have to rhyme, if you feel inspired why not pen your own poem in tribute, this can be read by yourself or the celebrant. Some people prefer to select a well known poem.
Photographs - Large or Small Photographs are a good focal point, which may be placed on the Coffin or nearby. Flags - Although anyone who has UK Citizenship has the right to the Union Flag on their coffin if they wish, some people choose to use a regimental flag, others may wish to employ a standard bearer for a more military style remembrance ending with the lowering of the standard.
Musicians and Soloists - The use of the Organ for a traditional church service is well known and always available, but if you wish there is an option for musicians to be employed, a Scottish Piper, a Harpist, or a wide range of vocalists can be employed. Karaoke style tracks can also be downloaded if a family member wishes to sing at the ceremony.
Sing-a-long to a favourite song - suggestions could be anything from You'll never walk alone, We'll meet again, Let it be, You raise me up, Always look on the Bright side of Life or even Puff the Magic Dragon to Land of Hope of Glory. Flowers - Floral Tributes are instantly recognised as being suitable for a funeral service, however there can be an opportunity for single flowers to be placed on the coffin by family members or the congregation. Flowers from the tribute can be dismantled and offered to members of the congregation as keep sakes, either during the service or afterwards.
Letters Cards and Children's Drawings - placed in sealed envelopes on top of the casket, these may be good-bye messages, or artwork from the younger members of the family who may not attend. . Flowers or Grasses from the Garden , Even flowering herbs, or a vegetable display in a Trug Basket, for those who loved their vegetable plot and preferred Cauliflowers instead of flowers. Multi-Media Presentations - Video, Slide and Film Presentations can be made available on a screen during the service by some funeral directors.
Booklets and Orders of Service - commemorative booklets can contain the running order of the service, the words to songs and hymns, readings or a selection of photographs, poems or written messages.
Memory Books - A book or cards may be made available to the congregation to write a message or a lasting memory of your loved one,
Video and Photography - For those who are not able to be at the funeral a Web-Streaming service may be made available, filming of the service is also an option and photography of the floral tributes or gathering is also now acceptable.
Candles - The Lightning of Candles, by the congregation or a single candle lit by the celebrant or family member is a beautiful way of showing support or perhaps a more spiritual element to the ceremony. (*not available at all venues)
Incense - The use of fragrant burning incense is an option especially in the private chapels.
Personal Items - Many things may remind you of a loved one, a favourite Cap, Teddy Bear, Cups, Medals, Knitting Needles and Wool, Favourite Tipple, Sports Scarves, Grave Side - Using Rose Petals, Single flowers instead of earth. Final Toast - Raising a Glass, or Round of Applause. www.rjsanders.co.uk Richard Sanders is a Life Celebrant who lives in Torquay South Devon, but is available for funeral services and Celebration of Life Services through the South West and further by negation.
Richard Sanders
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