Five Meaningful Memorial Ideas for Honoring a Loved One While Social Distancing

Posted by: Erin Ward in Grief and Guidance, Memorialization | July 8, 2021
Finding meaningful memorial ideas may look a little different for a while as we practice social distancing. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t still creative ways to honor a loved one’s memory while staying safe. Whether you’re looking for a solo activity or something multiple people can contribute to, we have some ideas for you.

Below are five memorial ideas that you can do while social distancing.

1. Make a Memorial Craft to Remember Them


I love suggesting craft projects as creative outlets for those who are grieving a loss. Not only is it a meaningful way to express your feelings, you also create a memento for honoring their memory. Plus, there are many project ideas out there, no matter your artistic skill level. If you do a quick Google search for “memorial craft projects,” there are tons of ideas varying in difficulty. From decorated frames to shirt pillows, there’s something for everyone.

For example, my family made frame-pressed flower petals to honor my grandparents. It sounds complicated, but they were easy to make. First, we flattened the flower petals by pressing them between book pages. Then, we decorated the paper for the frame background and glued the flower petals on it. It’s that simple!

2. Donate to a Charity in Your Loved One's Honor


Another powerful way to honor a loved one’s memory while making a positive difference is to donate to a charity. It can be a charity that was special to your loved one or a cause they were passionate about. You also can encourage your loved ones to donate to the charity or cause in lieu of flowers.

Or, if you want to take it a step further, start a scholarship in your loved one’s honor. Was your loved one a dedicated nurse? Or, did they have a passion for teaching? Whatever their career path was, start a scholarship fund to help local students who want to pursue that type of career.

3. Start a Grief Journal for Sharing Your Thoughts and Stories


It shouldn’t come as a surprise that a writer is suggesting starting a grief journal. But you don’t have to be a professional writer to start journaling! That’s the great thing about keeping a journal; there’s no right or wrong way to do it. You can write about whatever you want, whether it’s a story, an idea, or how you’re feeling in that moment.

Another idea is to start a grief blog, if that’s more your style. This way, you can easily share your content with others who may be going through a similar type of loss. However, if you’d rather keep your thoughts private, then you may want to choose keeping a journal, instead.

4. Wear Personalized Memorial Jewelry to Keep Them Close


Are DIY projects not your thing? No worries, a memento doesn’t have to be homemade to be meaningful. There are many premade items you can buy online. For example, one meaningful idea is to order memorial jewelry. Oftentimes, these can even be personalized with your loved one’s name or a special saying. You also may want to consider ordering extras for your loved ones who also may want a memento.

You also can check with your chosen funeral home to see what remembrance gifts they offer. They also may have recommendations for local businesses that make memorial crafts.

5. Host a Video Chat to Share Memories About Your Loved One


While mementos are great for having a physical reminder of a loved one, sometimes the best way to honor their memory is talking about them. Fortunately, video chatting makes it easy to do this while social distancing. Schedule a time with your family and friends to video chat and share stories about your loved one.

If you made a meaningful memento, this would be great time to share it with your loved ones. It may spark some memorial ideas that they want to do to honor your loved one.

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