Remembering Loved Ones: Memorial Christmas Decorations
While the holidays can bring both joy and sorrow, they also offer an opportunity to celebrate and remember those we've lost. Having had the honour of making many memorial Christmas decorations over the years, I know they can truly bring comfort at a time with such mixed and strong emotions.
In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of memorial decorations and share some ideas on how to incorporate them into your festive décor.
The Significance of Memorial Christmas Decorations
Memorial decorations are a way to pay tribute to the lives, memories, and legacies of those who are no longer with us. They serve as a visual representation of the love and respect we continue to hold for the departed. They are a way to provide comfort and connection at a time that can be so tough.
Continuity of Tradition
For many families, the holidays are steeped in tradition. Incorporating memorial decorations into these traditions can help maintain a sense of continuity and stability, even in the face of loss. It allows for the inclusion of departed loved ones in family celebrations, ensuring that their memory lives on.
Sharing Stories and Memories
Memorial decorations can serve as conversation starters and prompts for sharing stories and memories of our loved ones that are no longer with us. This sharing of experiences can be therapeutic and help family and friends process their grief collectively.
Preserving Family History
These decorations can become treasured heirlooms that are passed down through generations, preserving the memory of ancestors and ensuring that their stories are not forgotten.
Expressing Love and Gratitude
Memorial decorations are a tangible expression of love and gratitude for the impact that the departed individuals had on our lives. They convey that their presence continues to be felt, even in their absence.
Giving Meaning to the Holidays
For some, the holidays may lose their meaning or become difficult to celebrate after the loss of a loved one. Memorial decorations can infuse these special occasions with renewed purpose and a sense of spiritual connection.
Incorporating memorial decorations into your Christmas decor
Having memorial decorations in honour of your lost loved ones can be a heartfelt and meaningful way to honour their memory during the Christmas season.
Find a decoration that speaks to you. Whether it's one of our pieces with a special engraving (perhaps one of their favourite quotes, verses or sayings), something that represents them (like one of their hobbies or interests) or something with their favourite colour. Whatever you choose, you'll know you've found the right thing when you do as it will simply feel right.
In terms of where you should display the decoration and how many you should have, it is completely up to you. There is no right or wrong answer. If having one small subtle decoration on your tree that only you know about is what feels right, then it is. If having a separate tree completely in honour of them is what feels right, then it is. We know that a lot of the decorations we make don't just get hung up at Christmas but are kept up the whole year through, perhaps over a photo frame, around a vase, or hung ono the wall.
And there are of course other ways to honour them if an in memory decoration doesn't sit right with you. Perhaps you'll light a candle and take a moment, donate to a related charity or carry on a tradition that they started or you always did together.
The key is to do what feels most meaningful to you and your family.
As we celebrate the holiday season, it's essential to remember that grief and joy can coexist. Memorial Christmas decorations provide a tangible way to keep the memory of our loved ones alive during this special time of year. Whether it's through decorations, candles, or acts of kindness, the spirit of those we cherish can continue to shine brightly in our hearts.
By incorporating these special touches into your holiday décor, you can create a warm and loving atmosphere that pays tribute to the cherished memories of the past while embracing the joy of the present.
If you ever need help with a memorial decoration, please ask. We have years of experience making these special pieces and can help with things like what to engrave. We are always here to help.
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