How to Plan a Modern Memorial: 10 Inspiring Ideas

Written By Sarah Marie Sherbon

By Sarah-Marie Sherbon

A guide to unique funerals from BONAVENTURE

🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
 📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
📧 bonaventurememorial@gmail.com

Why Modern Memorials Matter

The traditional funeral is no longer the default. Today, more families are choosing to celebrate life in ways that reflect individuality, values, and meaningful moments. Whether you’re planning ahead or honoring someone you love, this guide is here to help you design a farewell that feels truly personal.

72% of families want a non-traditional funeral but:

“Less than 5% of all funerals were personalized in any meaningful way. We reached that insight by asking funeral homes from around the country to come in and to share their experiences with personalized funerals,” according to Funeral One.

1. Pick a Place That Meant Something

Whether it’s a favorite hiking trail, a stretch of coast, or a mountain overlook, the right setting sets the tone. Consider:

  • National or state parks

  • Private gardens

  • Overlook points with a view

BONAVENTURE TIP: Choose a destination where ashes can be scattered legally and naturally.

2. Skip the Suits

Traditional black attire isn’t required. Invite guests to wear something meaningful:

  • Their loved one’s favorite color

  • A travel shirt or hiking gear

  • A shared uniform or band tee

3. Make It Interactive

Give guests a way to participate:

  • Write a memory card

  • Add a stone to a memorial cairn

  • Contribute to a photo collage

4. Create a Ceremony That Fits

No need for a podium. Think about:

  • A sunset toast

  • Poems read aloud

  • Favorite songs played live or via playlist

5. Honor Their Hobbies

Infuse their personality into the day:

  • Birdwatching moment of silence

  • Painting supplies and canvases

  • Garden planting or tree dedication

6. Choose an Eco-Friendly Option

Go green with options like:

  • Ash scattering in nature

  • Biodegradable urns

  • Skip embalming and traditional burial

BONAVENTURE TIP: All our scatterings are 100% green-forward and chemical-free.

7. Let Go in Your Own Way

You don’t have to host a service at all. Many families:

  • Hold private moments at home

  • Send ashes to be scattered unaccompanied

  • Choose to celebrate months (or years) after the loss

8. Add Light & Sound

Make it memorable with:

  • Lantern or candlelight ceremonies

  • Fireworks at dusk

  • A personalized playlist or song list

9. Share the Moment Digitally

Not everyone can attend. Consider:

  • Live-streaming or recording the tribute

  • Creating an online memory page

  • Sending guests a keepsake photo or quote after

10. Preserve the Legacy

Help memories last:

  • Install a GPS memorial plaque

  • Commission a painting or keepsake box

  • Create a travel-inspired tribute book

Ready to Start?

BONAVENTURE offers custom ash scattering in some of the most beautiful places on earth. Whether you’re present or prefer a quiet, unaccompanied farewell, we’ll help you create something unforgettable.

🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
 📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
📧 bonaventurememorial@gmail.com

Sarah Marie Sherbon
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