Our Weekly Tip: ‘Words of Wisdom’ Memorial Board

Credit: Jessica Huang

Our Tip of the Week: There are days when the words of a co-worker, friend or even family member won’t suffice. Moments when we’re hurting and craving the comfort of a loved one who is no longer with us. In those instances, we may think of a phrase or joke they lived by to put things back on track. What if you could have those phrases at your fingertips instead of at the reaches of your memory? At your next memorial ceremony, create a “What Would (insert name of loved one) Do?” board—a collection of envelopes filled with their ‘mantras’ to get you through the day.

How-to Suggestion: Pick out some beautiful envelops – mix and match!—and glue them to a nice poster board. If you like, create and write a category for each one, such as Wisdom, Laughter, Mistakes, Beautiful Moments, etc. Get as creative and personal as you like.

Next, frame the board to serve as a centerpiece at the memorial or celebration of life ceremony. Put out a small piece of paper explaining the purpose of the envelopes to guests, which they can fill with their stories and words of advice from the loved one. Afterwards, the collection will make a lovely, useful centerpiece in your own home.

More Tips: Explore more of SevenPonds’ memorial resources through our memorial planning guide and explore other end-of-life tips through our Practical Tips column.