I know this might be a bit controversial—especially with my cousin, who’s a pastor—but I want to share an honest perspective on what truly makes a memorial or Celebration of Life meaningful. Whether you’re planning an in-person gathering or an online memorial service, the real beauty lies in how authentically the life of your loved one is honored.
The Traditional Approach: The Power of Ceremony
Some schools of thought believe that memorial services should follow a traditional ceremonial structure. This includes formal readings, prayers, songs, and perhaps a sermon delivered by a clergy member or celebrant. There’s comfort in this ritual. It offers structure at a time when emotions feel messy and unpredictable. It helps the community grieve together and provides a sense of reverence.
For many families, these ceremonial elements can bring healing and peace. They help us process loss within a familiar framework, which is especially important for people with strong religious or cultural traditions.
The True Celebration of Life
Then there are those who believe the most moving memorial services are the ones filled with personal reflections. This second school of thought focuses less on structure and more on letting the people who knew and loved the deceased share their memories, unfiltered and heartfelt.
It may not be polished. People may cry. They may laugh. But they speak from deep connection—and that’s where the magic happens. When friends and family share real stories about your loved one, you get to hear about their quirks, kindness, humor, struggles, and legacy. It’s raw and it’s real. It truly becomes a celebration of life, as loved ones celebrate the best memories of a loved one.
Personally, I’ve seen these moments become the most meaningful part of a Celebration of Life. These unscripted tributes let your loved one’s personality shine far brighter than any formal reading could.
Let Their Story Be Told by Those Who Knew Them
Pastors and celebrants absolutely play a role—they offer guidance through grief and often bring great wisdom. But if they didn’t personally know your loved one, they can’t speak to their specific impact. That’s why I always encourage families to make space for the people who knew them best. Give them a platform to honor, to remember, and to celebrate. We’re more than happy to help you create either one of these beautiful memorial services, but personally, I find that having close loved ones share is truly powerful!
So whether you’re planning a traditional gathering or an online memorial service, think about how you can create space for genuine storytelling. That’s where the gold is. That’s where true tribute lives.