Losing a loved one is never easy, but honoring their life and legacy through photos can be a powerful way to celebrate their memory. In Hawaii, where ohana (family) and storytelling are deeply cherished, creating a heartfelt photo display can bring comfort and connection during a challenging time.
Here are 15 thoughtful ways to display funeral photos that resonate with the aloha spirit and the unique traditions of the islands.
Digital Slideshow with Island Vibes
Bring the memories to life with a slideshow that blends photos of your loved one with Hawaiian music or a soft ukulele melody. Use a projector or large screen to share moments that show the richness of their life, from family luaus to beach days. Add captions to describe each photo—this can spark meaningful conversations among guests.
Local Tip: Include scenic photos of Hawaii that hold significance, like their favorite hiking spot or the beach they loved.
Photo Books for Generations to Cherish
Create a photo book that tells the story of your loved one’s life, capturing everything from childhood days to recent celebrations. This can become a treasured keepsake for your family.
Local Twist: Incorporate Hawaiian prints, kapa patterns, or aloha-inspired quotes like “A hui hou” (until we meet again) to reflect the spirit of Hawaii.
Traditional Picture Boards
Picture boards are a classic choice. Use a large board to display printed photos of your loved one’s cherished moments. Place it near the entrance or by the guestbook so attendees can reflect as they arrive.
Local Touch: Decorate the board with leis, ti leaves, or shells for a uniquely Hawaiian feel.
Memorial Video Slideshow
A video slideshow combines the best of photos and music to tell your loved one’s story. Include clips of them laughing, talking, or dancing if you have videos.
Pro Tip: Websites like Canva or SmileBox make creating a slideshow simple, even if you’re not tech-savvy. Choose Hawaiian tunes like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole for an emotional impact.
Tree of Life Photo Display
Create a symbolic tree of life by hanging photos from the branches of a potted tree. It’s a simple yet beautiful way to represent how lives are interconnected.
How to Make It Special: Use locally sourced greenery, like a small kukui or palm tree, and tie the photos with raffia or Hawaiian ribbon.
Memorial Blooms
Combine flowers and photos for a striking display. Attach pictures to vases filled with their favorite blooms and arrange them around the service.
Hawaiian Flair: Choose tropical flowers like orchids, bird-of-paradise, or anthuriums to reflect island life.
Easel Memorial with a Stunning Backdrop
Use a simple easel to display a large photo or collage of your loved one. Set it against a backdrop of lush greenery or the ocean if the service is outdoors.
Local Tip: Add a lei around the frame to honor their memory in true Hawaiian tradition.
Floating Photos with Balloons
Tie photos to helium balloons and let them float above the room. This whimsical display can bring a lighthearted touch to an otherwise somber event.
Best Use: Ideal for outdoor services or casual celebrations of life, especially on a breezy day near the beach.
Photo Clothespin Display
String up a clothesline and use wooden clothespins to hang photos. This creates a nostalgic, down-to-earth vibe.
Add Some Aloha: Use palm leaf string or shell garlands to give it that Hawaiian charm.
Photo Albums for Sharing Memories
Place photo albums on tables for guests to flip through. This encourages them to reminisce about shared memories.
Pro Tip: Include handwritten captions or Hawaiian phrases to give context to the photos.
Guestbook with Photos
Incorporate photos into your guestbook. This gives visitors a visual connection to the memories they’re writing about.
Local Idea: Have guests share their favorite Hawaiian word or memory with the deceased alongside their message.
Digital Photo Frames
Set up a digital photo frame that cycles through dozens of photos. This modern touch is perfect for highlighting the many phases of your loved one’s life.
Extra Touch: Add a background playlist of Hawaiian slack-key guitar music for an immersive experience.
Hanging Photo Tree Display
Use driftwood or sturdy branches as a base to hang photos with twine or raffia. This display is both rustic and elegant.
Hawaiian Connection: Collect driftwood from a favorite beach for an even more personal tribute.
Keepsake Memorial Cards
Design a small card featuring your loved one’s photo, a favorite quote, or a Hawaiian saying like “Malama pono” (take care). Hand these out to guests as a memento.
Local Twist: Use designs inspired by Hawaiian quilt patterns or add a touch of color with hibiscus graphics.
Using a digital photo frame for a funeral offers several benefits
1. Versatility:
2. High-Quality Display:
3. Remote Control:
4. Automatic Slideshow:
5. Storage Capacity:
6. Customization Options:
7. Energy Efficiency:
8. Wireless Connectivity:
9. Calendar and Clock Features:
10. Easy Maintenance:
Digital frames are easy to maintain, requiring only occasional wiping to keep the screen smudge-free and looking its best.
These benefits make digital photo frames a practical and meaningful way to display photos at a funeral, providing a convenient and engaging way to share cherished memories with loved ones.
Incorporating personal items into a funeral photo display can make the tribute more meaningful and memorable.
1. Memory Table:
- – Decorate a banquet table with framed photos, printed poems and quotes, and other memorabilia.
- – Include items representing the deceased’s favorite hobbies, interests, or passions.
- – Use cards to spell out significant events in their life, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or career milestones.
- – Add a vase with their favorite flowers or candles to create a warm ambiance.
2. Tree of Life:
- – Use a large potted tree and decorate the branches with photos printed on heavy cardstock.
- – Punch a small hole in each photo and tie a ribbon through the hole to create a loop.
- – This display can be placed near the casket or cremation urn or in the lobby to welcome guests.
3. Memorial Blooms:
- – Use plain glass containers like Mason jars or vases and attach photos using double-sided tape.
- – Place a single flower or a simple arrangement in each container with water.
- – This display can be used to decorate tables or areas designated for quiet reflection.
4. Personalized Items:
- – Include items from the deceased’s hobbies, such as musical instruments, sports equipment, or art supplies.
- – Use their favorite book, clothing, or other belongings to create a meaningful display.
- – Add personal items representing their career, such as a doctor’s stethoscope or a chef’s hat.
5. Digital Display:
- – Display photos with a digital frame or laptop with a slideshow feature.
- – Add personal items like videos, music, or quotes to create a more immersive experience.
- – Consider using a tablet or projector to display the photos and personal items. Losing someone can be rough, so we do our best to make the experience as memorable as possible.
Aloha to a Life Well Lived
Celebrating a loved one’s life with photos is a beautiful way to honor their memory, especially when you weave in elements that reflect the aloha spirit. Whether it’s a slideshow set to Hawaiian melodies or a memory table adorned with tropical flowers, these creative ideas will help you pay tribute in a way that feels deeply personal and connected to the islands.
If you need help with creating meaningful funeral photo and video displays, Visionary Views Funeral Service in Oahu is here to assist. Let us help you preserve the memories of your loved one with heart and aloha.
