The Quick Guide To Making A Memorial Scrapbook At A Funeral

Gathering loved ones together for a funeral can create an ambiance of that's oddly mixed with deep grief and the joy that comes with cherished memories and a reunion of family members who may not have seen one another in a while. The funeral is a good event for the creation of a memorial scrapbook. Since so many different people who were important to the loved one will be gathered together, you may want to encourage people to help join in the creation of a memorial scrapbook for the deceased person's children, spouse, or other immediate family.

What You Need:

• Scrapbook (choose a color that meant something to the lost loved one)
• Two blank scrapbook pages for each person who attends
• Three packages of colored pens
• Stickers that reflect the deceased person's hobbies
• Two-sided scrapbooking tape
• Glitter, lace, and other accessories
• Table to display scrapbook

What to Do:

Step 1: Set Up the Area for the Scrapbook

You should set up the scrapbooking area in a place that is convenient for those who are attending the funeral service. Talk to the funeral home about the request, and the funeral director may offer suggestions for how to best place the scrapbooking table. Some may suggest placing the scrapbook alongside the signature book for attendees.

Step 2: Display a Sign with Instructions

Place a simple sign on the scrapbooking table that states the name of the lost loved one, and also let people know that this is the scrapbooking station. The sign should be friendly and let people know what they should do to participate. For example, you may let them know that people are encouraged to draw, write stories, share photos, make funny comments, express feelings of love, or any other thing you want to encourage people to contribute to the scrapbook.

Step 3: Encourage Each Attendee to Contribute

When you designate someone to call and let people know about funeral arrangements, you may also let them know about the fact that you will be making a memorial scrapbook at the funeral. You may politely encourage them to make duplicate copies of pictures they have of the deceased person so that they can place an extra copy in the memorial scrapbook alongside written memories of the lost loved one.

If you are not able to let them know beforehand, have someone who will tell each guest about the scrapbook as they arrive. Although contributing to the scrapbook should be optional, let guests know why you are doing it and why it will be helpful for them to be a part of the tribute.

Finally, keep in mind that a memorial scrapbook can be a cherished memento for the lost loved one's spouse, kids, or other family members. You may want to mention the memorial scrapbook during the memorial ceremony itself. Also, be sure to have someone who will discuss the scrapbook with each attendee who may be confused about what they should contribute to it, and thank everybody who participates for their help in making the scrapbook special.