Let’s Talk Memorials

A memorial service is a ceremony held to honor and celebrate the life of a deceased person, typically without the body present. Unlike a funeral, which often includes the burial or cremation of the body, a memorial service focuses on remembrance and reflection. It can take place at any time after the death, allowing for flexibility in planning.

The primary purpose of a memorial service is to provide family and friends an opportunity to gather, share memories, and support one another in their grief.

How much are Memorial services?

The costs of a memorial service can vary widely based on location, preferences, and specific arrangements. Here’s a general breakdown of potential expenses:

Venue

You have options with this decision.

1- Local Funeral Home: $300-$500

  • They may have a reception room available

2. Community Center or Hall: $200 - $1,500

3. Religious Institution: Often donation-based, but may have a fee ($100 - $500)

4.Home: Usually no cost, but may require setup and cleanup

Officiant

1. Minister, Rabbi, or Celebrant: $150 - $500

2. Family Member or Friend: No cost, but may require preparation

Program Materials

1. Printed Programs: $50 - $200 (depending on quantity and design)

  • check with where you had the cremation/burial done and they ay offer printing services.

2. Memorial Cards: $25 - $100

  • You can use Canva or Etsy to create something and print them off at your local Walgreens/CVS

Music/Video

Live Musicians: $200 - $500 (for a soloist, band, or ensemble)

Speaker/playlist: Usually no cost, but may require setup

Slideshow: Ask your local funeral home if they can share the software they use or you can create one using PowerPoint.

Catering

Light Refreshments: $100 - $500 (depending on number of guests)

Full Meal: $1,000 - $3,000

Decorations

Flowers: $100 - $500 (depending on arrangements and types)

  • Use your local florist- We love Freytag’s or William Paul and designs.

Remember there is truly no right or wrong way to have any type of service.

I have had families have their memorial service at a park, or at their loved ones favorite restaurant.

How ever you want to celebrate your loved one is the perfect way!

People want to celebrate the unique personality and lifestyle of their loved ones. A memorial service allows for family to incorporate personal touches—such as displaying photographs or designing the service around a favorite hobby—a memorial service can become much more meaningful and reflective of the individual’s life.

Don’t feel intimidated by the name… a memorial service can be called a celebration of life as well!

A celebration of life offers greater opportunities for creativity compared to a traditional funeral. Typically held after the person's remains have been laid to rest or cremated, these gatherings allow for more time to plan. This extra time enables you to thoughtfully consider how best to honor and celebrate the life of your loved one.

If a personalized memorial service resonates with your family's needs, consider these questions:

  • What activities brought joy to your loved one?

  • How would you describe their personality?

  • What impact did their profession have on their life and identity?

  • Did they hold spiritual beliefs?

  • How did their cultural or ethnic heritage influence their life?