In this time of social distancing, we have all had to pivot and find alternative ways to do so many things that we have done innately for so long. The mission to re-think how to memorialize those that pass away started with isolating the specific elements that comfort us in grief • Connection. Acknowledgment. Silence • Support • Ceremony • Music. Reverence • Sharing • Conversation • Patience. Humor. Remembrance • Along with the technology that can connect us in real-time for services that are safely held, we can also include everyone’s unique expressions of love and testimony into the service itself.

As you share the obituary online with family and friends, it might help to include a personal message inviting people to share content for the Video Tribute. 

“Please share photos and videos with the funeral home to help create your video tribute”

Any photo or video file can be uploaded to the funeral home through the link indicated on the obituary page. The endless possibilities of what to share can seem overwhelming, so here are some suggestions. 

WHAT TO SHARE?

• Video

• You could speak directly to the camera or even from behind the camera while showcasing mementos, photos or anything you find meaningful

• You could upload footage you already have of your lost loved one

• You could capture a song, poem or prayer

• You could showcase hobbies, interests and personal traits

• You could tell a story about how your life was impacted by your loved one

• You could share the deceased’s favorite joke or quote

• Photo – pictures of the deceased, and also:

• Art 

• Crafts/creations

• Recipes

• Handwriting

• Achievements/Awards

• Favorite Places

• Most Prized Possessions

• Collections

• Audio – the upload link itself does not (yet) accept audio files, but if you have any to share (like a voicemail or voice memo) you can email it to us at info@FuneralStreamingServices.com

HELPFUL TIPS

• Try to keep the recording short and sweet. 

• In the event we need to remove some of what was said. The goal is to keep the video short. If we are fortunate to receive a lot of personal video messages, we will need to shorten the longer messages. We suggest keeping the video around one minute long. Feel free to upload a long message as well. The family will receive long messages in the final video after the funeral.

• When recording the video, please keep the camera or phone close to the people speaking for a better sound recording.

• Try to have the light/window/sun behind the camera, facing the person or object you are capturing

• Notice the background and adjust anything that you might not want to be included in the video or picture

• MOST IMPORTANTLY – when recording with a phone – hold the phone horizontally (NOT vertically)

• This will ensure that the video fills the entire television screen, preventing the black blocks on both sides that appear when the phone is held vertically

Inviting People to Share

•When posting the obituary online with family and friends, it might help to include a personal message inviting people to share content for the Video Tribute. You can even ask for specific things like:

• “Please share photos and videos with the funeral home to help create mom’s video tribute”

• “Mom loved making (scarves/blankets/slippers/paintings etc.)- upload photos of what she’s made for you:)”

• “In honor of Dad’s love for peculiar neckties, share a photo of yours”

Hugs are probably the most lacking element of comfort that cannot be shared right now but know that ANYTHING shared from your heart WILL be felt by everyone that shared love for your loved one.