Grab that old hat he always wore, the one faded from too many sunny days, or her favorite scarf, soft and worn from years of use, and set it out for a bit. Picture it resting on one of our benches or draped over a chair during the service. Someone there will likely spot it, tie it right to them, and smile, thinking, “ Oh wow, they always wore that- I can still see it.” This is a gentle nudge to recall their warmth and spark a good memory. Let Fairhaven know where you would like it placed or shown for the service, keeping it safe until it’s time to take it home. Back at your place, you could frame it to hang on the wall or rest it on the mantle as a way to keep their presence close every day.
Do you have a favorite recipe card in their handwriting? Whether it’s that beloved extra cheesy mac and cheese or a delicious dessert that was their signature dish, we invite you to bring it to Fairhaven Memorial Chapel. You can share it with us, and if you would like we can display it for you. We know this is more than just a recipe; it’s a tangible piece of their legacy that others can see and almost taste. We can also make copies to share with your family and friends so that they can take a little piece of your loved one home with them to pass along their memory. This is a heartfelt way to honor their spirit and fill our space with the warmth of the cherished recipe, and we are honored to be a part of the meaningful tribute.
Pick a feather that reminds you of your loved one, maybe one you saw drifting by recently, or something about its shape, color, or bird that they adored. You can find it outdoors or wherever it appears, then bring it to Fairhaven. Pair it with a handwritten note expressing how light and free they are now, describe their laughter, or how they always made everyone smile. Drop it somewhere that you find fitting. It’s small, but it carries weight, a way to feel their presence still around. At Fairhaven Memorial Chapell, others can spot this feather and your heartfelt words, gaining insight into what makes them unique. This act can also provide you with a sense of relief, allowing you to let go while still holding on. After the memorial service, you can release the feather into the air or keep it home as a cherished keepsake.
Instead of the traditional flowers, consider donating to a charity that was close to your loved one’s heart. It could be the local animal shelter, a medical research group, or a community service organization, your contribution can make a meaningful impact. At Fairhaven, we can point you to some options and set up a spot during the service for family and friends to talk about what charity was picked. We can also include details about the charity and where to make donations in the memorial program. This act of kindness allows for their legacy to live on, spreading love to others, and it pulls everyone together through values and shared memories.
