A Guide to Unique Memorial Services

It is now common for people to choose to celebrate the life of a loved one in an unusual or unique way. Our guide will touch upon some of the meaningful and interesting things people are doing to pay homage to their loved ones.

Alternative Hearses

There are many places in the UK offering unique or unusual hearses that can really personalise a service for a loved one. Here are some of the more interesting hearses we have found:

Firework ash scattering

Many companies across the UK are now offering a truly unique way to say goodbye to a loved one and scatter their ashes. As seen in the video clip from BBC below, ashes are respectfully and tastefully incorporated into fireworks by trained pyrotechnicians. Many providers will also give the option of arranging the display for you.

Have a woodland burial

Natural woodland burials are becoming more popular with people who are environmentally conscious. There are over 270 beautiful natural woodland burial sites in the UK that offer a truly beautiful send-off, set amongst natural flora, fauna and woodland. To find out more about natural woodland burials read our article here.

Unique funeral ceremony ideas

There are many ways to add personality to a ceremony. Here are some of our favourites:

Live stream the funeral

Many social platforms, including Facebook and YouTube provide live streaming options. By live streaming a funeral service, you give people who were unable to attend a chance to be a part of the ceremony and pay their respects from wherever they are in the world.

Release balloons

A beautiful and vibrant way to pay homage to a life lived. There are many companies in the UK that will create custom balloons, you can then source a pressurised helium pump or get a local company to help to inflate them.

Dove release

As a symbol of peace and love, a dove release provides a beautiful and visual way to pay tribute to a loved one.

Unique memorial service ideas

Whether you decide on a traditional or more modern and unique funeral, there are many ways you can add something different to remember a life lived. Here are some of our top picks:

Give out seed packets

Giving out seed packets allows mourners to each grow their own memorial for a loved one in their own garden. This is a wonderful way to celebrate a life lived, giving each attendee a lasting memorial.

Personalised candles

Some people choose to give out personalised candles with the loved one’s name on, providing each guest with an opportunity to pay tribute in the days and weeks after the funeral.

Create a memory tree

You may wish to allow guests to share their memories of a loved one by creating a unique memorial tree. This could be as simple as having a vase with branches in on a counter with labels and pens.

Unique ideas for the wake

Wakes are often held at a hall or pub nearby, giving attendees a chance to talk together and share their memories. They also provide an opportunity to introduce even more of your loved one’s personality:

Host an open microphone

Attendees may wish to share memories about the loved one that has passed. Providing an open mic at the wake gives them a chance to talk about their memories and experiences.

Include four legged friends

If your loved one was fond of animals, it may be a nice touch to welcome pets to take part in the wake.

Personalise the food

Serve up a selection of a loved one’s favourite foods to personalise the Wake, a further tribute to a life lived.