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VIRTUAL
MEMORIAL
TOOLKIT
Tools To Help Your Family Plan An Online Memorial
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 the way we come together has dramatically changed. Grieving the death of a loved-one is an event we absolutely feel compelled to gather for, and that feeling doesn't go away with a pandemic.
Since we can't gather physically we're finding ways to share funeral services and celebrations of life on digital platforms. But what makes a memorable and meaningful service? The funeral directors at Mueller Memorial have put together a list of the things you need.
Mueller Memorial is consistently voted Best Funeral Home by readers of Press Publications.
VIRTUAL MEMORIAL TOOLKIT
What's Inside?
VMT Workbook
This is a printable or fillable PDF that will be your guide for decision making and help make sure all the details are considered.
Service Plans
Step by step outlines for religious, spiritual, or non-religious services. And a checklist to make sure everything's set.
Writing a Eulogy
We give you the elements that make a great story. And that's what eulogies are, telling the story of someone's life.
Readings and Scripture
You don't have to search thousands of pages of Scripture or poems, we have the frequently chosen readings all in in one place.
Song Library
Links to the most the most requested versions of religious, traditional, and popular songs for memorial services.
Tech Setup
Recommendations for looking and sounding your best. What equipment we use, and which little things can make your smartphone seem like a pro's camera.
9 Things You Need to Host an Online Memorial Service
1) A Platform - The best platforms are Zoom, Facebook, and YouTube. These platforms have the widest (or open) user base and will make it easiest to reach more people.
2) A Date - Picking a date and letting people know in advance will allow them to join you at the time the service is happening.
3) A Plan - Having a plan is crucial. The more prepared you are the better your service is going to go. Try to reflect the customs that your family has used for previous memorial services.
4) A Helper - If you are broadcasting live over social media or if you're hosting an interactive gathering on Zoom, assign an assistant that will help with the technical parts so you can focus on hosting the service.
5) Eulogies - The best eulogies are 5-minutes or less, planned, and tell a story. Rarely does "winging it" work out the way you want it to. A well thought out (and practiced) eulogy that follows a story-telling format work best.
6) Music - Music adds emotion to everything it touches. Choose a song that is an expression of who the person was and is appropriate for the occasion and the audience.
7) Readings - Poems, prose, or Religious Scripture can give words to your emotions or provide comfort. The options for these are endless.
8) Equipment - You definitely need a camera with a microphone, that can be as simple as a smart phone. Having a couple extra things like well-considered lighting and an external microphone, can help make your service look polished.
9) Checklist - On the day of your service you want a clear checklist to make sure all the elements of your service or gathering are in order.
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