Your loved one was a unique individual, just as their funeral service should be. However, knowing how to plan a service with personal touches can be challenging as you have probably not had to plan a funeral before.  If you are making arrangements with funeral homes in Elgin, SC., here are 5 tips to creating a meaningful and personalized service.  

1. Select an Officiant Who Knew Your Loved One

The officiant is the person who is in charge of leading the service. They may also meet with the family and friends beforehand to ensure the service flows smoothly. Because this is such an important role, it’s nice to have someone fill this position that knew your loved one personally. This makes the service much more meaningful as they may share memories or stories of your loved one during the service.

2. Choosing a Personal Reading or Poem

If you are having a religious service consider adding in a passage or prayer that was special to your loved one. If they had a Bible perhaps there was something in there that was underlined or highlighted. If the service is non-religious in nature look for a poem or other reading that was special to them. This could even be a lyric from one of their favorite songs or artist. 

3. Create a Personalized Funeral Favor

Funeral favors are small tokens of appreciation that are given to guests who attend the service. They serve as a way to thank guests for coming as well as service as a small keepsake. This is a perfect opportunity to personalize the service.  

For example, if your loved one was an avid gardener you could hand out seed packets with their favorite flowers. If they loved baking your could have their favorite recipe printed on a nice card. Think of their passions and hobbies and create a funeral favor around that. 

4. Choose Personal Flower Displays

While there are certain flowers associated with funerals, you don’t have to be limited to them. If your loved one had a favorite flowers, use that in the décor. Even if it is not a traditional choice, don’t be afraid to use it. If your loved one didn’t have a favorite flower, you could use their favorite color and choose flowers that fit within that range.  

5. Select Their Favorite Music

Music plays a big role in funerals as it serves for background music, as well as main elements during the service. This is a great place to personalize the service and choose music your loved one adored. You could choose a certain song, artist, or even genre.

Final Thoughts

While planning a funeral is never easy, if you look for ways to make it truly personal for your loved one it can help bring you a little comfort. Knowing you are creating a special service that will honor them will not only make it special for you but for the guests as well. Make sure to talk to the funeral director when making arrangements with funeral homes in Elgin, SC., as they can help make sure your service flows perfectly.