Before we begin, please note that the following discusses an emotional topic and has been handled with care. Our intention is not to cause distress but to offer thoughtful guidance—please be mindful of your own wellbeing before reading.
Saying goodbye has always been one of the hardest things we do. But how we say it? That’s changing. Funerals are no longer just about quiet goodbyes in church halls or sombre gatherings in crematoriums. More and more people are choosing to celebrate life rather than just mourn a loss, and in doing so, they’re reshaping what a ‘farewell’ can look like.
A Life Well Lived, A Farewell Well Given
It makes sense, doesn’t it? We celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and every milestone in between—so why wouldn’t we honour the final chapter in a way that truly reflects the person we’re remembering? Bespoke and luxury funerals are growing in popularity, and at the heart of it is a simple shift: moving away from a standard service towards something deeply personal and unique.
It’s no longer just about black attire and hushed tones; it’s about creating a moment that feels right—a send-off that mirrors the individuality of the person who has passed. A jazz band leading a procession, biodegradable fireworks carrying ashes into the sky, or even intimate garden ceremonies filled with laughter and storytelling—these are just a few of the ways people are choosing to honour their loved ones.
What Does a ‘Personalised’ Funeral Look Like?
The beauty of this change is that there is no set formula. Some families are opting for eco-friendly funerals, with biodegradable caskets and tree-planting ceremonies. Others are taking a more luxurious approach, with designer urns, custom-built coffins reflecting hobbies or passions, and grand celebrations in favourite locations.
Here are some elements to consider when planning a personalised farewell:
- Location: Does a formal setting feel right, or would a beach, garden, or even a favourite restaurant suit them better?
- Music & Readings: Was there a song they couldn’t help but dance to? A poem or book passage that sums them up?
- Attire & Atmosphere: Should it be traditional or colourful? Quiet and reflective, or full of shared memories and toasts to their life?
- Legacy & Impact: Could donations be made to a cause they cared about? Could guests participate in an activity they loved?
Moving Away from ‘Should’ to ‘Would’
One of the most comforting things about this shift is that it takes away the pressure of what a funeral ‘should’ be and replaces it with what the person would have wanted. It’s a way of keeping their spirit alive, ensuring the farewell is not just something to endure but something to cherish.
More people are even pre-planning their own send-offs, making choices now to ease the burden on loved ones later. It’s not about being morbid—it’s about ensuring a final farewell reflects who you are, rather than following a one-size-fits-all template.
Not Just for the Wealthy
While luxury funerals might sound exclusive, personalisation isn’t about the price tag—it’s about thoughtfulness. A heartfelt playlist, handwritten notes to guests, or a simple gathering in a meaningful place can be just as powerful as grand gestures.
The shift towards bespoke funerals is really a shift towards meaning. And meaning doesn’t come with a price—it comes with care, love, and a desire to say goodbye in a way that feels true.
Final Thoughts: More Love, Less Regret
If there’s one thing we can take from this growing trend, it’s that we have permission to rethink how we say goodbye.
Loss will always be difficult. But what if we could take away some of the regret, the wondering if we ‘did enough’? What if we could focus on celebrating everything that made someone extraordinary?
Whether big or small, extravagant or simple, a farewell should feel like them. And that’s the most beautiful way to honour a life well lived.
At Studio Nine, we believe in the power of human connection, in bringing people together in meaningful ways. We see this shift in farewells as part of a bigger movement—one that values presence, storytelling, and genuine togetherness. If this article resonated with you, let’s continue the conversation. Because in a world that moves so fast, taking time to honour and celebrate life is something truly worth doing.
Studio Nine 