What Are the Costs Associated with Organizing a Memorial Service?

A memorial service is generally more affordable than a traditional funeral service since it doesn’t require the body of the person who died to be present for viewing. However, the average cost of a memorial service tends to vary from state to state. Additionally, the costs can vary depending on the features of the service. Individuals who are working with a funeral home to handle the logistics of a memorial service will generally have access to transparent pricing, but may need to be mindful that optional features can increase the total cost of the services. 

The average cost of a memorial service with cremation in the United States is $6,078. However, many individuals opt to hold a memorial service independently without the assistance of a funeral home. This is often more affordable since the venue doesn’t have to be the funeral home premises, and almost every aspect of the service can be personalized at a more affordable price. Renting a venue for the service is generally the most expensive component and can typically cost at least $100 per hour, but these costs can also be avoided if the friends or family of the person who died are willing to host the service at their private residence. 

Services of clergy members or celebrants, facility charges, catering, printed materials, and transportation all contribute to the total cost of a memorial service. Sometimes, the costs for catering are included if the memorial service is being hosted at a funeral home or if an independent service is being held at a venue such as a restaurant or event hall. If attendees bring their own food to the service or the family prepares the food beforehand, these costs can be minimized. Printed materials can often come with a discounted price if they are ordered in bulk. Since a clergy member or a celebrant isn’t required for a memorial service, the cost of their services is usually optional and can be replaced by designating speakers among the attendees. 

Although the costs of holding a memorial service can be substantial, it is generally cheaper than holding a funeral. Families are encouraged to consider all options available carefully, compare prices among funeral homes in their area, and identify which service components can be handled independently. In doing so, they can create a meaningful service that will effectively honor their loved one while adhering to a general budget. 

Sources 

“How much does cremation cost?” Lincoln Heritage Funeral Advantage. https://www.lhlic.com/consumer-resources/cremation-costs/ 

“Unique memorial service ideas to commemorate your loved ones”. Trust & Will. https://trustandwill.com/learn/memorial-service-ideas