Honouring a Life in Your Own Way
Unlike a traditional funeral, a memorial service is not bound by time or place. It can be held weeks later, in a garden, a hall, by the sea, anywhere that feels right. That freedom lets families create something truly personal.
As a funeral and memorial celebrant in Melbourne, I’ve seen services in parks, art galleries, homes, and halls, each as unique as the person being honoured. Here’s how to plan a memorial that feels peaceful, personal and beautifully authentic.
Step 1: Decide the Purpose and Tone
Ask yourself: What do we want this day to feel like?
Quiet and reflective? Joyful and celebratory? A mix of both?
Tone guides every other choice, music, venue, timing, words.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location, Melbourne’s Beautiful Memorial Spaces
Botanic Gardens, South Yarra
Lush greenery, lake views and tranquil paths create a serene setting for reflection.
Abbotsford Convent
Historic walls and peaceful gardens offer warm character and privacy.
St Kilda Beach or Brighton Foreshore
For those who loved the sea, a beachside gathering at sunset can be profoundly moving.
Collingwood Children’s Farm or CERES Brunswick
Earthy spaces that suit nature-lovers and environmentalists.
Private Homes & Gardens
Intimate, familiar, and perfect for storytelling around shared memories.
Local Community Halls
Affordable and flexible spaces that allow music, food and personal decor.
75 Reid St (Fitzroy North)
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Located at 75 Reid Street, Fitzroy North, VIC 3068. Easy Weddings+2Melbourne Fringe Festival+2
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A beautifully restored 1920s-era building, with arched ceilings, exposed brick, and lots of natural light. Hidden City Secrets+1
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Flexible “blank canvas” space for weddings, receptions, memorials—DIY/BYO options available. 75 Reid St+1
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Great for families who want a distinctive inner-north Melbourne location with character and versatility.
It caters to both wedding and memorial services, so it works in both blog contexts (weddings & memorials).
Studley Grounds (Kew / Studley Park)
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Located in Studley Park, 121 Studley Park Rd, Kew, VIC. studley-grounds.wheree.com+1
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Natural, leafy setting just ~5 kms from Melbourne CBD, a calm oasis blending nature and convenience. Studley Grounds+1
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Suited for weddings and other celebrations; the setting is ideal for outdoor ceremonies “between the trees”. Facebook
For families seeking a serene, nature-infused venue, Studley Grounds is a strong contender.
The Baths Middle Brighton (Brighton Beach)
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Located at Middle Brighton, VIC. Beachfront setting with panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay. The Baths Middle Brighton+1
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Indoor/outdoor spaces, can host 20–200 guests depending on style. Feel Good Events
Perfect for those who want a beachside or waterside backdrop, ideal for a wedding or even a memorial that honours someone’s love of the sea.
Encore St Kilda (St Kilda Beach)
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Located at Jacka Blvd, St Kilda, VIC. Modern waterfront venue with spectacular views over Port Phillip Bay. Encore+1
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Features include private bridal suites, floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor terrace and large capacity (approx up to 700 in some configurations) according to some listings. TREE STUDIO+1
A high-end, dramatic setting—great for couples wanting a “wow” factor.
Step 3: Choose the Right Celebrant
A professional memorial celebrant helps shape the service so it flows naturally, balancing structure with emotion. They can write and deliver the core tribute, introduce speakers, and coordinate timing with music and slideshows.
Step 4: Craft a Story That Feels True
Gather details that capture the person’s essence: their values, favourite music, recipes, hobbies, phrases. The goal is to paint a portrait that feels real, not perfect, just true.
Step 5: Add Meaningful Elements
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Readings and Poems: Classic choices like The Dash or Afterglow, or something written by a family member.
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Music: Songs that remind you of shared moments.
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Visual Tributes: Photos, videos, or keepsake tables.
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Acts of Remembrance: Lighting candles, planting a tree, releasing flowers into the bay.
Step 6: Timing and Practicalities
Memorials don’t need to follow a strict schedule. You can hold them days or months after a passing, whatever feels right.
If people are travelling, choose a time that allows everyone to gather without pressure.
Step 7: Making Guests Feel Comfortable
Provide light refreshments, a sign-in book, and a gentle MC to guide the flow. Small touches create connection and ease.
Step 8: Working with a Celebrant to Personalise the Day
When I help families plan a memorial, we start with conversation, about the person’s life, what they loved, how they’d want to be remembered.
Then I write a ceremony that feels natural and human, combining laughter and light with respect and reflection.
The Gift of Gathering Later
Many families find that holding a memorial weeks or months after a funeral gives them time to heal. They can celebrate with more perspective and peace.
Why Location Matters
The right setting creates an emotional frame for the story. Sunlight through trees, waves against rocks, birds overhead, nature has a way of soothing grief.
Final Thoughts
A memorial service is a chance to say thank you, for a life that touched yours.
It’s about remembering with love, not just loss. Take your time, ask for help, and create something that feels right for your family.