Our Weekly Tip: 

DIY Memory Wreath

Credit: thistlewoodfarms.com

Our Tip of the Week: A centerpiece sets the emotional tone for a memorial service, end-of-life celebration or altar. Large-scale portraits are classic, but you can also create an intimate and dynamic centerpiece using multiple photographs arranged into a striking wreath. The stories contained in the photographs are brought out into the light, memories relived and treasured as you celebrate the life of a loved one.

The centerpiece can have a second incarnation as a sweet addition to the art in your home — a poignant reminder of a life well lived and loved. A photographic wreath would also make a touching memorial gift for someone moving through the process of grief.

How-to Suggestion: Create the foundation of the wreath using supplies from your local craft store and add aesthetic touches with ribbons in any material you find attractive. You can either use photo frames, or print old photographs onto sturdy card stock to create a more informal, textured wreath. Here is a great tutorial using frames.

Add some communal interaction to the piece, and set it out before the service to allow people to add photographs that speak to them. You can provide the photos, frames, and also paper and beautiful ink pens for people to add their thoughts or memories of the person you are celebrating. A photo wreath can become a community-crafted memorial centerpiece that speaks to the loving connection of the lives touched by the loved one who has died.