Ideas for Unique Memorials: New Ways to Honour Lives

As Australia's first funeral business dedicated solely to memorial-style funerals, Tomorrow Funerals compiled some suggestions when planning an extraordinary life celebration. Although no one wants to be in the position of planning a funeral, it is of course, an inevitable part of life.

Kate Morgan, Co-founder of Tomorrow Funerals said, “we believe that crafting a modern memorial event that truly reflects your loved one's life involves finding ways to highlight who they were and tell their story with love.

We believe that when done well—with love and creativity—a memorial service can help someone begin the process of saying goodbye. It’s a deeply satisfying endeavour and an act of love.

To us, creating an extraordinary memorial event is about telling their story and celebrating in the same way they lived their life.”

A  funeral doesn’t have to take place in a church or chapel. A coffin does not even have to be present. In fact, modern ideas for honouring the lives of those we love can incorporate creativity.

Here are some ideas for funerals and non-traditional memorial services:

• A tribute concert for a music enthusiast, featuring their favourite songs. You can explore our Spotify playlists for funerals here.

• A family art day at home, where everyone creates a tribute piece of art symbolising your loved one.

• A chic event in a stunning room overlooking the waves at Elwood Bathers, one of our partner venues.

• How about a family picnic with all your loved one's favourite foods and people?

• An open house memorial in the afternoon at home, with speeches and catered food (or everyone brings a dish that reminds them of your loved one).

• Instead of rushing to plan an event in the weeks following the death, you could take more time and hold the memorial on their birthday, for example.

• An uplifting ceremony in a beautiful, modern venue where everyone wears your loved one's favourite colour.

• A ‘paddle out’ for a surf lover, followed by scattering of ashes and a toast with their favourite drink.

• Why not host a simple event at your loved one's favourite pub?

• A gathering in a serene yoga room with guided meditation and speakers.

• A round of golf followed by speeches in the club room, perfect for the golfing enthusiast.

• An elegant cocktail event at an art gallery for the art lover.

Tomorrow Funerals have a philosophy of doing funerals differently. Ms Morgan said, “We believe it’s time to rethink the whole concept of creating meaningful and memorable life celebrations. We love being able to help our clients and their families at what can be such a difficult time.”

We’re always here to help. 

Find out more about Tomorrow Funerals