Personalising a funeral

Affinity is dedicated to helping you create a personal atmosphere that reflects your loved one – working with you to deliver a service that honours and celebrates their memory.

Personalising the funeral

Working with you to deliver a service that honours and celebrates their memory.

There is no limit to the ways in which a person can be remembered – we are here to help you find ways to celebrate your loved one’s life and times.

Our team of highly experienced funeral directors are skilled at creating touching photographic and video tributes, as well as service sheets and memorial books, music and floral tributes.

Images and Mementos

Photographs and video are powerful ways of bringing a person’s memory to mind.

The team at Affinity will collect and compile your photographic and video memories into a tribute that may be used as part of the ceremony, a visual memorial at the reception, or any way you wish.

Symbols

The use of such symbols as flags and insignia, important awards or examples of their art and hobbies can all help bring the life of your loved one into focus.

The lighting of candles to represent life and hope, or other symbolic acts may also enrich the event and help those present start to come to terms with the death of a family member or friend.

Service Sheets

Affinity offers personalised service sheets to help mourners participate in the service, as well as providing a memento for those attending the service.

Memorial Books

Affinity can craft a memorial book as a tribute to your loved one and a record of those who attended, a memorial book is a significant memento and distinctive keepsake. Working closely with our compassionate funeral directors, you can create a custom memorial book that serves as a lasting tribute and cherished reminder of the memories shared during the funeral service.

Flowers

A classic symbol of enduring memory and love, we are able to provide expert floral advice. Alternatively, tell us your preferences and we will organise floral arrangements that perfectly reflect your loved one.

Record / Livestream

Affinity offers both DVD recordings and online streaming of funeral services for those who cannot be there on the day.

Eulogy & Tributes

Creating a eulogy can be challenging. A few minutes will not do justice to an entire lifetime, yet the right words can bring comfort and prompt others to share special memories.

There are no set rules to writing a eulogy or giving a tribute, but you may want to consider some of the following:

  • Favourite poem, quote or reading
  • Their spiritual outlook on life
  • Major milestone
  • Interests and hobbies
  • Anecdotes
  • Speaking on behalf of absent family members or friends

If you would like guidance in creating a eulogy, we are happy to help. 

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Looking for more information?

In this brochure you will find helpful information on what to think about if you are planning a funeral for someone who has died, or pre-planning your own or someone else’s funeral. We hope this information offers you some insight and reassurance that we are here to support you every step of the way.

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Frequently Asked Questions

These FAQs explain how you can personalise a funeral service.

How can I personalise a funeral to reflect my loved one’s life?

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You can personalise a funeral through images, symbols, music, flowers, and more.

Affinity Funerals works closely with families to craft meaningful services that reflect the life and values of the person being honoured. Options include photo and video tributes, personalised service sheets, custom memorial books, floral arrangements, livestreams, and symbolic gestures like candle lighting or displaying meaningful items.

What photo and video options are available for a funeral?

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Affinity can create powerful photographic or video tributes to honour your loved one.

These can be shared during the ceremony, played at the reception, or offered online. The team will help gather and curate your visual memories into a touching presentation that reflects the essence of the person’s life.

Can we include meaningful objects or symbols during the service?

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Yes, personal items and symbols can add emotional depth to the ceremony.

Affinity encourages the use of items like medals, artwork, sporting gear, or tools that represent the person's hobbies, work, or values. Candle lighting or cultural rituals may also be incorporated to support healing and connection.

What is a service sheet, and how is it personalised?

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A service sheet is a printed guide for the funeral, often kept as a memento.

Affinity Funerals designs these to include the order of service, photos, readings, and special messages. You can choose between traditional formats or highly creative layouts that reflect your loved one’s personality.

What is a memorial book, and how is it used?

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A memorial book is a keepsake that records who attended and captures shared memories.

Affinity offers fully customised books where guests can leave messages or notes. These books are professionally designed to reflect the tone of the funeral and become a cherished item for families to revisit over time.

What floral arrangements can Affinity provide for a funeral?

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Affinity can provide or organise flowers that reflect your loved one’s style.

Whether you want traditional bouquets, custom arrangements in favourite colours, or something symbolic like native plants or garden flowers, the team can take care of all floral needs based on your preferences.

Can funeral services be livestreamed or recorded?

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Yes,  livestreaming and recordings are available for those who can’t attend in person.

Affinity offers both online streaming and Digital recordings to help distant friends and family be part of the farewell. This is especially helpful when travel isn’t possible or during times of border restrictions.

How do I write a eulogy or tribute for someone I loved?

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Start with heartfelt stories, reflections, or quotes that capture who they were.

You might talk about their values, interests, milestones, or the way they made others feel. Affinity provides guidance and suggestions if you're unsure how to begin or want feedback on your draft.

What should I include in a meaningful eulogy?

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A thoughtful eulogy may include anecdotes, key milestones, and their unique qualities.

You can also include:

  • Favourite quotes or readings
  • Reflections on their spirituality or worldview
  • Funny or moving stories
  • Messages on behalf of others who couldn’t attend

How can expat families include distant relatives in the service?

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Livestreaming the funeral ensures overseas loved ones can take part.

Affinity’s online streaming and recording options make it possible for family and friends abroad to witness the service, feel involved, and share in the remembrance from afar.

What are good options for creative or artistic families?

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Custom design services let you personalise every visual element of the service.

Affinity offers slideshow creation, photo-enhanced service sheets, creative memorial books, and themed floral displays. This helps reflect your loved one’s artistic side or personal passions.

What’s the difference between a traditional and personalised funeral?

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Traditional funerals follow a standard format, while personalised services reflect the individual.

A personalised funeral may include custom music, photo tributes, themed decorations, or symbolic acts. It allows families to tailor the ceremony to who the person truly was, making it more meaningful for attendees.

What can Affinity’s design team help create for a funeral service?

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They can design custom print and digital materials like service sheets and video tributes.

Affinity’s in-house team works with you to craft personalised content, from slideshow presentations to creative layouts for service programs and memorial books - all designed to celebrate your loved one’s legacy.

Why are service sheets important to a funeral?

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They provide structure to the ceremony and become treasured keepsakes.

Guests often take them home to reflect on the service, and they help guide everyone through readings, music, and the flow of the day. Affinity offers multiple design styles to suit the tone of the farewell.