While not new, personalized or custom funerals are very popular with many families these days. The approach reflects a certain change of mentality. Indeed, eschewing the usual classic floral arrangements, families are tending to set aside the imposed customs of the past, in favor of an approach that offers the deceased an (exit) that reflects who that person was, a special way of sharing an emotion, of saying (goodbye).
Adapting to the market, funeral homes can be quite flexible in responding to the new trend towards highly personalized memorials, which can take a variety of forms. For instance, various decorative elements may be displayed next to the casket or urn; some families add a video presentation, chamber music, prerecorded tributes or photographs; others may choose a casket with interchangeable corners; the service may be held in a special location or use vehicles or items (clothing, tools, etc.) that remind everyone of a representative aspect of the life or personality of the deceased.
Note that personalized funerals generally do not cost any more than traditional ones. It should also be pointed out that a personalized funeral is an approach that must be initiated by the family. The role of the funeral home is to respond as appropriately as possible to the request.
Including different items or symbols that were closely connected with the deceased is becoming common, although this custom dates back to Antiquity; indeed, many ancient tombs have been found to contain familiar objects that were meant to accompany the deceased on his or her journey to the afterlife.
It is advisable, nevertheless, that this practice be kept within the limits of good taste, dignity and respect. Keep in mind that the funeral should be personalized around the most important person in the family’s eyes and, that this type of expression is first and foremost for the deceased. The families have to realize that this reminder of the deceased, that the number of objects or the size of the display, for example, cannot by themselves express the true depth of their love for the person.
Regardless of the circumstance, the funeral home chosen by the family can advise them and help them plan a personalized funeral to meet their needs and expectations for a heartfelt tribute that is still dignified.