Avoid These 3 Mistakes When Planning an Outdoor Memorial

Outdoor memorial services are truly a beautiful event. While these services are often held inside buildings such as funeral homes and churches, deciding to hold the service outdoors can make it a unique and peaceful event. However, these outdoor events do take a little more work and consideration to ensure they run smoothly. Knowing some of the top mistakes families make when planning an outdoor service can help you avoid making them as well. As providers of cremation services in Irving, TX., we are listing the top three mistakes we see most often.

1. Choosing a Noisy / Busy Location

Location, location, location. The location can make- or -break- the whole service. While you want to look for a location that has beautiful surroundings, you also want to think about the noise and crowd level.

For example, if you decide to hold the service at a park, check with the local park officials to make sure there aren’t any events such as bike races or charity walks that will be in that area on the day of the service. Also, if you choose a park, you might choose a less popular area so that you don’t have a lot of people around disturbing the service

2. Not Considering the Needs of the Guests

Mistake umber two is when the needs of the guests have been overlooked. For example, if it is a hot summer day, you may need to have a way to provide water and shade. Perhaps you need to rent a tent that the service can be held under or find a heavily shaded area. If it looks like rain, you will need to have a way for guests to be covered either with shelter or by offering umbrellas. Also, if the service is going to be long, you need to make sure there are restrooms available as well as ample seating.

3. Forgetting Key Equipment

Typically when you hold an indoor memorial service, things like a sound system, projectors, laptops, and microphones are generally provided. However, with an outdoor services, you will most likely have to provide these items yourself. Make sure you create a complete list of all the items you will need so that you don’t forget anything the day of the service. If you have someone who is technically inclined, see if they can help you with what you may need as well any help with the actual set up.

Final Thoughts

While it is true that an outdoor memorial service may require more planning and work to ensure everything runs smoothly, it can be completely worth the extra effort. Having your service in a place that is surrounded by plants, flowers, blue skies, and fresh air and truly bring the service to a whole new level of peace, calm, and togetherness.