A memorial keepsake can take a number of different forms. They can be something as simple as a printed card with your loved one’s favorite poem or an elaborate cremation art piece. But one thing all memorial keepsakes can have in common is that they can be deeply personal to the life being honored.
In this article, we have categorized three types of memorial keepsakes: gifts to the family, keepsakes that are passed out to attendees of a memorial service or celebration of life, and items for the family that were created by attendees of the memorial service or celebration of life.
Memorial Keepsake Gifts
When thinking about a gift to the family of the loved one being honored, one place to start is with the loved one’s favorite things. Something like their favorite song, book, or poem can easily translate into a framed piece that is presented to the family. For example, if the loved one had a favorite book, you might find a copy of the book, decide on an excerpt that best represents the loved one, tear out the page, and frame it. The result is not only a unique and interesting framed piece of art but also a memorial keepsake that has deep, personal meaning.
There are also a variety of items available online that can be personalized with a quote or photo, such as frames and decorative glass blocks. Celebration of life quotes can be found with sentiments of remembrance, ones that celebrate a life well-lived, or come from famous works of literature. But you may choose to use a quote that directly relates to something in your loved one’s life; whether that be a favorite saying of theirs, a reflection on their hobbies or profession, or in a language they spoke or loved. Similarly, if you opt for a photo gift, you can feel free to choose a photo that directly reflects the spirit of the loved one. Ultimately, you can assemble a memorial keepsake gift that meaningfully represents the unique life being honored.
Memorial Keepsakes for Attendees
Memorial keepsakes can come in the form of small tokens, meant to be kept by attendees of a memorial service. One of the nice things about small tokens is that they can easily be mailed if you decide to host a virtual memorial. In fact, these mailed-out tokens can become a part of the celebration. For those hosting an out-of-the-box celebration of life party, you can consider sending out something you might find at a party supply store, such as noisemakers or a decoration. Not only will this be a fun reminder of your loved one’s spirit but it also adds another element of togetherness to a virtual gathering.
Keychains, ornaments, and cards can also make wonderful memorial keepsake items. Much like a personalized keepsake gift, these items can be inscribed with your loved one’s favorite quote, celebration of life poem, or song lyric. Whether virtual or in-person, choosing to pass out a memorial keepsake can be a beautiful way to offer attendees a reminder of how the loved one’s life touched theirs.
Memorial Keepsake Creations
One way to enhance a feeling of togetherness at a memorial or celebration of life is to have attendees create something together. And at the end, the creation serves as a wonderful memorial keepsake. Memory jars, for example, give guests a chance to participate and allow you to reminisce about your loved one with unique and varied memories. Video memorials are also a deeply personal way to collect memories. These can be recorded prior to either an in-person or virtual gathering, played at the gathering, and then given to the family to cherish. Not only can these keepsake creations serve as an outlet of remembrance for friends and family, but they can also allow you to collect memories and glimpses of moments in your loved one’s life that you may not otherwise have had.
Unique Memorials, Unique Keepsakes
We at Lighten believe that a memorial service can be as unique as the loved one being celebrated. And this uniqueness is a result of many personalized details, such as keepsakes that reflect your loved one. If you would like to start planning a unique memorial, Lighten can help.
