Virtual Memorials
In the past few months I’ve been asked to help with 3 virtual memorials. Here are a few of the things I’ve learned. If you would like my help with a virtual memorial please reach out.
- Probably as with the rest of life every virtual experience is different and none of them go perfectly. As much as you practice and prepare know that there will be hiccups and they probably do something to humanize the experience vs. put a dent in it. That said, mostly I’ve seen these events be really sweet experiences where people share what they loved about their loved one = people have come away surprised at what a lovely experience a virtual memorial can be.
- Do hold a tech run through – try out things like sharing the screen to show a slideshow + practice spotlighting people + muting people if it’s going to be a big group so that the main person speaking can be heard
- Make sure that the main person who is overseeing the event understands well how to use Zoom or whatever platform you’re using. Also, ideally, hand this role off to a professional or at least not someone who is close to the loved one – so they can experience the memorial and relax into it.
- Know that the event will probably go better than you can imagine. People will share in all sorts of unexpected ways. Every time I’ve done this I’ve noticed that the events have a natural flow and really seem satisfying to the people who attend.
- Given that not everyone is an expert with Zoom it makes sense to hold a short training session early on in the event. In this I highlight how one can rename themselves; how to use the chat feature; how to turn off one’s video so that connectivity is improved in some cases; how to mute oneself; how to raise your hand; and different ways of viewing – speaker vs. gallery view, for instance. As Zoom continues to change so does the short tutorial.
- Decide in advance whether you want to record the session or not – and perhaps let participants know if they’re being recorded.
Testimonials: