Memorial Shrines

Celebrating the life of a departed loved one can be a beautifully enriching and healing process when done with creativity and a desire to honor the many ways your cherished friend or family member touched your life. Whether you are choosing a traditional casket and cemetery burial or opting for cremation or another alternative burial ceremony, this time of healing can be strengthened tremendously by artistic memorial objects and rituals.

Of course, typically if one opts for cremation, the creation of some type of memorial shrine is generally expected, but that does not mean a small shrine of some kind cannot be tastefully created for a departed loved one is resting at a cemetery. There are many creative options for both types of shrines and many choices for memorial objects and keepsakes so decorate a shrine to a departed loved one.

If there is a funeral urn or cremation urn holding the remains, this may serve as the centerpiece of a memorial altar to a dear friend or beloved family member. A hand made cremation urn or one of a kind art urn are great choices for the centerpiece, and other keepsakes and memorial items may be displayed around it. If the departed loved one is a pet, then a wide array of pet urns, dog urns and cat urns are also available.

If a more traditional casket burial was done, then perhaps the centerpiece of a memorial shrine could be a photo or painting of the individual. A nicely framed favorite family photo, or a custom made portrait or other piece of memorial painting might be used as the centerpiece of the display. Other items may be placed on or around this to round out a small altar dedicated to the memory of someone truly cherished.

Other art objects may be obtained, such as memorial textile art. This could serve as a fine covering for the surface you intend to erect your shrine upon, or displayed on the wall behind the memorial area. Keepsakes and items that were personal and important such as photographs, buttons and jewelry can be sewn right into a memorial quilt for a personal touch.

Memorial jewelry can be displayed around a memorial shrine, and perhaps worn on special occasions if not regularly. Beautiful, one of a kind pendant, pins, rings, and other jewelry items are available and custom designed to honor the passing of a dear friend or relative. Matching sets can be made for different members of the friends or family left behind, forever allowing them to share the bond represented by matching memorial jewelry.

Memorial glass items are ideal for using in a well created shrine or tastefully designed memorial altar. If cremation was chosen, some little bit of cremated remains can be used in the creation of memorial glass, creating a swirling, colorful texture and style to the pattern of the glasswork itself. This truly personalized touch makes any type of memorial glass item truly a special keepsake that will remind the person who sees it of the wonderful memories of a departed friend or family member.

However you choose to decorate a memorial shrine or dedicate an altar to a departed loved one, this sacred space will forever remind you of the love you shared with a special person, and help you to move gracefully through the grieving process. A memorial shrine or altar is a great way to honor the memory of someone you cared about.