When a loved one dies, is it truly possible to convey all that made them so special during their funeral service? Our answer at Sunset View Cemetery is an emphatic “yes” – and we’ve had more than 5 decades of experience helping our neighbors in San Francisco Bay area do exactly that.

The best way to commemorate – and celebrate – a beloved friend or family member is by adding unique, personal details to their funeral, visitation, and burial. And at Sunset View Cemetery, the options for personalization are nearly endless. As you think about planning your own arrangements, or as you turn to us for help in organizing a funeral for a loved one, consider these ideas that help capture a person’s essence, while creating memories to last a lifetime.

Create a tribute video.

Photos bring people back to specific moments in time. This is why editing favorite photos from a person’s life is so meaningful; it helps you feel a little closer to the one you’ve lost. Our staff can create a tribute video to be shown during the visitation or service, or as a private remembrance for your family. We can also link the video from your loved one’s online obituary, so others can see it or share it on social media.

Set up a display table.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating your loved one’s unique interests, passions, and accolades into their final remembrance. Did your friend or family member have a cherished collection they enjoyed adding to over the years? Set it up alongside other favorite personal items. If a loved one was a fan of books or recipes, create the feel of a cozy library by displaying their beloved books and/or recipe cards. Or think of how beautiful a presentation of favorite flowers or plants could look, complete with seeds for a favorite flower given out as take-home gifts.

Incorporate live music into the service.

Live music is a powerful way to honor your loved one and acknowledge their life and legacy. Adding special songs or musical performances that had personal meaning for the loved one who died can make a funeral service much more individualized and meaningful for those in attendance. Hearing that favorite upbeat song or meaningful ballad can transport one back through nostalgic memories, sparking reflection, tears, and even laughter.