The funeral or memorial service you plan for a loved one can be as personal as you wish it to be. Many families find great comfort in turning their thoughts inward for a time, to consider the personality, interests, and achievements of their loved one. Your Funeral Director will ask you to list one or two words describing any of the following things about your loved one:

• Personal characteristics
• Passions, interests, and hobbies
• Lifetime Achievements
• The Funeral Director will also ask you about:
• The special memories you wish to share, or highlight at the service
• The important people you’d like to note or include
• How you’d like to personalize elements of the ceremony, such as the music, prayers, or recitations

Once you've given thought to the unique life and personality of the person who died, it's time to incorporate those memories into the funeral plan. Be creative as you, together with your family, friends, Funeral Director and the person who will lead the service, brainstorm how to remember and honor this special person.

A good way to personalize the funeral is to personalize the common elements of funeral ceremonies:

• The visitation
• The eulogy
• The music
• The readings
• The procession
• The committal service
• The gathering or reception