The death of a loved one is a difficult and emotional time. In the past, people would typically grieve in private, sharing their memories and feelings with close friends and family. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards using digital memorial platforms and online memorials to remember loved ones who have passed away.
There are many benefits to using digital memorial platforms and online memorials. For one, they allow people to share their memories and thoughts about their loved ones with a wider audience. This can be helpful for people who live far away from their loved ones’ families, or who simply want to share their memories with a larger community.
Digital memorial platforms and online memorials also make it easy to keep track of all of the memories and tributes that have been shared. This can be helpful for families who want to preserve their loved one’s memory for future generations.
In addition, digital memorial platforms and online memorials can provide a sense of community for people who are grieving. This is especially important for people who are grieving alone, or who do not have a large support network.
Of course, there are also some drawbacks to using digital memorial platforms and online memorials. One concern is that these platforms may not be around forever. If a platform goes out of business, or if the website is hacked, then all of the memories and tributes that have been shared could be lost.
Another concern is that digital memorial platforms and online memorials can be impersonal. Some people feel that it is not the same as visiting a physical gravesite or memorial.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use a digital memorial platform or online memorial is a personal one. There are both benefits and drawbacks to consider, and each person will need to decide what is best for them.
Here are some of the most popular digital memorial platforms and online memorials:
- Memories: Memories is one of the most popular online memorial platforms. It allows users to create a memorial website for their loved one, where they can share photos, videos, stories, and tributes. Memories also offers a variety of features to help families and friends stay connected, such as a guestbook, a message board, and a calendar of events.
- Legacy: Legacy.com is another popular online memorial platform. It offers a variety of features similar to Memories, as well as the ability to create a personalized obituary and order memorial products.
- GatheringUs: GatheringUs is a more comprehensive memorial platform that offers a variety of features, such as the ability to create a virtual memorial service, crowdfund for expenses, and track RSVPs.
- Forever Missed: Forever Missed is a more personalized memorial platform that allows users to create a memorial website with a unique look and feel. It also offers a variety of features, such as the ability to light a virtual candle, play music, and create a slideshow of photos.
- Keeper: Keeper is a memorial platform that focuses on helping families and friends stay connected after the loss of a loved one. It offers a variety of features, such as a shared family tree, a map of the deceased’s final resting place, and a virtual grief journal.
How to create a digital memorial
If you are considering creating a digital memorial for your loved one, here are some tips:
- Choose a platform that is right for you. There are many different digital memorial platforms available, so take some time to compare them and find one that meets your needs.
- Gather your loved one’s photos, videos, and stories. These are the memories that you will want to share with others on the memorial website.
- Write a personal tribute. This is your chance to share your thoughts and feelings about your loved one.
- Set up the memorial website. This includes choosing a design, adding content, and inviting others to view the website.
- Keep the memorial website updated. Add new photos, videos, and stories as you remember them.
Digital memorial platforms and online memorials can be a helpful way to remember loved ones who have passed away. They offer a variety of features that can help families and friends stay connected and share their memories. If you are considering creating a digital memorial for your loved one, I encourage you to do some research and find a platform that is right for you.