How to Display a Portrait at a Memorial
A memorial service is an event, put on by loved ones, to commemorate the life of a deceased individual. Such a service can be held in addition to, or instead of, a funeral. Since the remains of the individual are absent from such a service, the portrait placed on display becomes especially important, as it may serve as the last image mourners have of the recently departed. Thoughtfulness should go into selecting a portrait and displaying it, as a memorial service serves not only as a time of grief, but as a moment to remember, honor and celebrate the life of an individual.
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Instructions
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Sort through old photos to select an ideal image or images. You must decide whether you'll display one photo at the memorial or several, representing different aspects of your loved one's life. Pictures of him engaged in his favorite hobby, graduating from high school or college or embracing his favorite pet are memorable selections. If the deceased was a widower, a wedding portrait can be especially moving, as can a soldier in full regalia.
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Visit a photo shop to have the picture or pictures enlarged and restored, if needed. Here you can also have it altered in several ways, such as changing the toning from color to black and white or sepia.
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Visit retail shops online or in person to select an appropriate frame for your picture or pictures. Take into account the coloring of the photo, activities occurring and setting of the portrait when making your selection. For example, a restored wedding photo might benefit from a large, ornate, old gold frame. A college graduation portrait might work best with a sleek black frame similar to the graduation gown found in the photo.
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Find out whether management staff has access to easels for erecting your pictures, otherwise you may have to purchase them from an arts and crafts store.
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Visit the location of the memorial service to ascertain the best display locations for the photos. A single large portrait display at the front will work well, as would three large portraits, with one placed at the front and one on each side of the reception area. Multiple pictures throughout the room will encourage guests to move and mingle. Ensure that adequate lighting will be available near your designated locations.
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Purchase flowers to enhance your portrait display. If erecting the picture with the help of an easel, a large sympathy basket on the floor beneath would work well, as would a few loosely placed roses, lilies or favorite flowers of the deceased attached to the legs of the easel with raffia, ribbon or lace.
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References
- Photo Credit Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images News/Getty Images
