Typically, a funeral will only occur after someone has passed away. However, this means that they won’t be able to appreciate the beautiful words and kind memories that are shared about them. This is why some people are opting to have a living wake. Here’s what you need to know about these ceremonies.
What is a Living Wake?
A living wake is generally similar to a funeral ceremony. Close family and friends will gather together to share some highlights from a person’s life. However, in this case, their loved one will still be alive and able to hear what everyone has to say. Because of this, the tone tends to be more celebratory, rather than the sombre nature of a funeral.
Increasingly, more people are willing to try this type of ceremony. It’s common for people to regret not taking the time to share their feelings with a loved one before they passed. Plus, it gives a dying person the closure of knowing the profound impact they had on those around them.
Though anyone can have a living wake, it’s most commonly used for elderly people who are approaching the final chapter in their lives. It’s also common for those dealing with a terminal illness to organize a living wake.
Facing the end of life will always be hard. But knowing that you’ve had a positive impact on the world can bring some people peace during this difficult time.
What Venue is Best For a Living Wake?
There are many ways that you can plan a living wake. Most commonly, it’s held at a local Wodonga funeral home. It can follow a traditional funeral format, with each family or friend getting a chance to share their favorite memories.
However, this isn’t the only option that you can explore. Some people prefer to hold a more informal event, gathering at the local pub or their favorite sporting club. You can also hold it at a local park or opt to charter a boat.
What Happens at a Living Wake?
While the venue is important, it’s also vital to think about the tone of the event. Some people prefer it to be more formal, following the same format as a traditional funeral. Others, though, opt for a more relaxed event that feels closer to a birthday party.
Regardless of the tone, all living wakes will share a few common elements. First, they should provide an opportunity for family and friends to gather to celebrate the life of a loved one. This typically involves making a few speeches. You might even want to prepare and read a eulogy.
Next, it’s common to highlight some of the memorable moments of a loved one’s life through a photo presentation. This is usually set to their favorite song. Funeral directors Wodonga can help you organize a touching ceremony that celebrates the life of your loved one.
Conclusion
A living wake can be a moving experience. You’ll be able to tell loved ones how important they were, while they are still alive to appreciate the beautiful sentiment. This can provide a sense of closure before they pass away.
