Celebrations of life, on the other hand, are happier occasions in which people celebrate life. A celebration of life, as the name denotes a celebration, so guests should expect a joyful event. They’re often more like parties than funerals, commemorating the deceased’s life. Funerals are generally more somber events at which people speak in hushed tones and have subdued manners. Celebrations of life, on the other hand, are usually more casual with the emphasis on the positives of the person’s life rather than the sadness of their passing.  

Think of a celebration of life as a more upbeat memorial service. Celebrations of life are most commonly held at someone’s home, a garden, park, or a rented even venue, unlike funerals that are held at funeral homes and churches. Also, similarly to memorial services, these events are held after the cremation or burial, while some choose to hold them a year after the death as an anniversary commemoration. There really are no hard and fast rules about what celebrations of life should be. They can be whatever the bereaved and the deceased want them to be.  

Since celebrations of life are unlike funerals, they require different attire other than funerals. Generally, the bereaved ask celebration of life guests to wear more casual, bright or upbeat clothing to mark the happier tone of the occasion. Guests can also send flowers to bring color and life to the event, or to honor an aspect of the deceased’s life such as colors of a favorite sports team or an alma mater.

If you’re looking for inspiration for a celebration of life, you can:  

• ask friends and family to share their happy memories

• have people bring photos and mementos

• make a memory box or book and ask guests to write comments, memories, or leave mementos

• play a video or slide show of photos and video clips of the deceased

• make a playlist of the deceased’s favorite music or songs to play at the event

• display some of the deceased’s prized possessions like collections, photos, or even clothing

• encourage guests to share funny and happy memories as well as poignant ones. 

By definition, celebrations of life are happy, joyful and bright. No matter what you plan for your lost loved one’s celebration of life it should be positive and a chance to remember the best of the deceased’s life.  

Memorial Event Center is an Alamo, TX event center with a wide range of services. Call or visit us today to learn more about what we can do for you when you’re planning your next event, no matter what that event may be.