You still need funeral homes Mentor, OH, during the pandemic. Many Americans have lost a loved one to COVID-19 or any other reason since early 2020. What’s worse is the federal restrictions on social gatherings and indoor events have barred many people from holding a memorial service in memory of the lost loved ones.
With the federal and state governments easing the COVID restrictions, many families are planning to arrange a memorial service for the loved ones who have died during the pandemic. If you’re one of them, here is a step-by-step guide on how to plan a perfect memorial service:
Set Date and Time
First things first, choose a day and time to invite close friends and family to gather and honor the deceased. It’s better to arrange the event on a special day like the loved one’s birthday, anniversary, or any other memorable date.
Else, choose a holiday to make it easier for the invitees to attend the event.
Choose a Location
You have got all the options in the world to choose a perfect place for the memorial service. If you’re short on budget, plan the event in the deceased’s family home. If you want to, invite your loved ones to a private place like a hotel, beach, or any natural spot.
Consider the local government’s COVID protocols. You may have to consider an outdoor ceremony in the ground or a funeral home having ample space.
Send Invitations
Let the loved ones know individually about the upcoming event. Many of the friends would have no idea about the planned memorial service. Use social media platforms or send a notice in the local newspaper if you want to invite community fellows as well.
Prepare for the Meal or Beverages
Decide whether you want to serve a full meal or just refreshments to the guests. A part of the decision is contingent on the time of the event. For instance, if you’re inviting the loved ones around 12 pm-3 pm or 7 pm-10 pm, then consider serving the full meal.
Similarly, make a list of the beverages you want to serve the guests. Depending on whether you’re planning in summer or winter, finalize the list of drinks.
Personalize the Event
Think of creative ideas to customize the event in a way it should reflect the deceased’s personality and way of life. After all, that’s the purpose of this event anyway. Here are the few things you can do:
- Display pictures of the deceased or make a tributary slideshow
- Display the personal items of belongings of the loved one
- Ask the guests to show up in a specific dress code such as in the deceased’s favorite color
- Ask the loved ones to say a few words in the memory of the deceased or share a story.
Use Technology
Don’t forget that almost everyone is going through a tough time during this pandemic. Chances are some of the loved ones wouldn’t make it to the event for any reason.
Consider using technology to live stream the event so everyone could watch and pay tribute to the deceased at funeral homes Mentor, OH.