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A celebration of life

A celebration of life is a personal, meaningful way to say goodbye that focuses on remembering someone’s story, personality, and the moments in their life that showed them to be truly unique.

Modern funerals are increasingly more fluid and far more personal, moving away from fixed formats shaped by tradition or religion. If you are looking to understand just how to create a flexible, modern funeral, which has celebration at its heart then this is the guide for you.

What is a celebration of life?

A celebration of life is a ceremony that reflects the individuality of the person who has died. Unlike a traditional funeral, it is usually less formal and can be quite free flowing and unrestricted.

The approach many people take when organising a celebration of life is often to reflect an ‘open house’ tone, inviting guests to come when they wish, choosing a wonderful and meaningful location, and marking the life of a loved one with unique, memorable touches.

As a family funeral director for more than 335 years, we have seen how the celebration of life event has evolved.  Most commonly, the key points are:

  • A day that focuses on memories and personality rather than formality or ritual
  • A religious, non-religious, or mixed event
  • Often includes storytelling, music, photos, and personal tributes
  • Can be held days, weeks, or even months after the cremation or burial

How it differs from a traditional funeral

The Role of Direct Cremation or an Unattended Funeral in Modern Goodbyes

Often working in conjunction with a celebration of life, CPJ Field are pleased to offer an unattended or direct cremation as part of our services. 

With an unattended cremation families have the reassurance that funeral staff are taking care of the person who has died, leaving them more time and flexibility to celebrate and honour their nearest and dearest.

We also can refer families to a direct cremation service, if they are looking for a lower cost, simple cremation, with no family or friends present at the crematorium. Here is the difference between the two:

 

Since there’s no service at the crematorium with an unattended or direct cremation, many families choose to hold a gathering of their own, to celebrate their loved one in a way that feels right for them.

If that’s something you’re thinking about, we’d be glad to help. As local funeral directors with over 335 years of experience, we’ve worked with local venues, florists, caterers and musicians, to name a few, taking care of the small details that make a day special, so you can be fully present on the day. Find your nearest funeral home for local support. 

Who Can Lead or Arrange A Celebration of Life?

Different people may play a part in organising your celebration of life.  The people may include:

  • Your funeral director – for planning, logistics, transport, cremation arrangements
  • A Celebrant – to help manage the day (civil or religious)
  • Family/friends – leading the event themselves for a more personal feel
  • Or a hybrid approach to make the most of all of the above
 

There is no “right way” to do it.

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