Celebration of life funeral favours: thoughtful ways to honour a loved one

When we lose someone we love, finding meaningful ways to honour their memory becomes part of the healing process. A celebration of life offers a gentle alternative to the traditional funeral, focusing not on mourning the loss, but on cherishing the life that was lived. These gatherings are often filled with warmth, shared memories, laughter, and love, bringing comfort through connection.

What is a celebration of life?

Unlike a formal funeral service, a celebration of life is a more personal, uplifting event that reflects the unique personality, passions, and spirit of the person who has passed. There may be music they loved, photos from different stages of their life, or even readings from their favourite books or poems. While still respectful and heartfelt, these gatherings tend to feel more like a tribute than a farewell. They allow family and friends to share stories and celebrate the joy that person brought into their lives.

Celebrations of life can take place anywhere that feels right—at home, in a garden, or somewhere special to the loved one being honoured. The atmosphere is typically more relaxed and tailored to the individual, which opens the door to thoughtful, creative touches like favours or keepsakes for guests.

Why give favours at a celebration of life?

In the same way wedding favours thank guests for their presence on a joyful occasion, celebration of life favours offer a heartfelt way to show appreciation for those who’ve come to support and remember. More than a token, these funeral favours can serve as remembrance gifts, something tangible that brings comfort in the weeks and months to come.

Remembrance gifts don’t have to be elaborate or expensive. In fact, the most meaningful items are often simple and deeply personal. Whether it’s a packet of wildflower seeds to plant in memory, a small photo tucked into a card, or a scented candle to light on special days, these favours remind us that love endures, and that our loved one’s presence continues in quiet, beautiful ways.

Personalised memorial candles as a lasting tribute

One particularly cherished idea is a memorial candle. These can be personalised with the name of the person you’re honouring, along with significant dates, a favourite quote, or a short message of remembrance.

Candles offer both symbolism and comfort. The gentle glow of a flame has long been associated with peace and reflection. For many, lighting a candle in memory of a loved one becomes a quiet ritual and something they can return to on birthdays, anniversaries, or simply in moments when they feel that person’s absence.

When choosing memorial candles as funeral favours, consider:

• Personalisation: Include a name, dates, or a meaningful phrase like “Forever in our hearts” or “A light that never goes out.”
• Fragrance: Choose a scent to remember your loved one, fruity, floral or calming, to match their personality.
• Packaging: Present each candle in a fabric bag with a note explaining its significance.

Some families also choose to pair candles with a printed poem, or a card inviting guests to light it during a quiet moment of reflection.

In Loving Memory

While no gift can take away the pain of loss, a thoughtfully chosen celebration of life memorial gift can help keep a loved one’s spirit close. Whether you’re planning the gathering yourself or supporting someone else through it, incorporating these small touches can be a beautiful way to honour, remember, and heal.

For those navigating grief, these moments of shared memory and love are often the ones that bring the most comfort. And in celebrating a life well lived, we remind ourselves that though someone may be gone, their light continues to shine.

Explore our range of memorial gifts and personalised candles.