How to Pick a Memorial Service Location

A memorial service, held separately from the funeral, allows friends and family to celebrate the life of a loved one who has passed away. Planning a memorial service is often the responsibility of the deceased's family, though friends and employers may also be involved in the planning process. Choose a location that accommodates the number of people expected to attend in memory of the deceased.

Instructions

1. Explore traditional locations such as churches or temples, especially if your loved one was a member of a particular religious organization. Ask the priest, rabbi or minister to assist you in planning a memorial service in addition to planning the funeral service.

2. Inquire at the funeral home if a chapel or other facility is available for memorial services. Visit the facility before making a memorial service commitment.

3. Ask your funeral director for a referral for an appropriate memorial service facility. If possible, allow your funeral director to make the appropriate arrangements.

4. Consider holding a private funeral and a public memorial service if the deceased was a prominent member of the community. Choose a location that accommodates a large number of people, such as an auditorium, for your public memorial service. Contact the deceased's employer for suggestions and assistance in planning a memorial service geared toward business associates and professional acquaintances.

5. Plan a small memorial service at a location that was special to the deceased. Gather on the beach or at a public garden to remember your loved one.

6. Remember your loved one at his grave. Invite others to share their memories when the marker is placed on the grave or on significant anniversaries when others gather in memoriam.

Tips & Warnings

• Check and see if your loved one has made funeral arrangements prior to her death. If so, follow the wishes of the deceased when planning memorial services.

Resources

• Visit the Nolo website for information about funeral planning.
• Visit the Celebrating a Life Creative Memorial Service Planning website for tips about planning a memorial service.