Selecting a Virtual Memorial Site
Virtual memorials have been online since the mid-1990s, so there are plenty of choices. Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you settle on an online home for your loved one’s memorial.
Will it be easy to use?
Online memorials are meant to be used by everyone who remembers your loved one, regardless of their familiarity with the internet. Make sure that it’s easy to post stories, pictures, and videos at your site, so that all visitors can contribute their own special memories.
How much can visitors contribute?
Some sites allow visitors to post a simple note, while others allow anyone to add their own photos or videos. Consider how much virtual memorial visitors will want to add—and how much you’d like to customize the page.
How much does it cost?
Keep in mind that most memorial sites are for-profit ventures, so a small fee will likely be required. Many sites offer free trial periods, or complimentary sites with limited services. Do your homework on the cost each site—after all, you’ll want visitors to be able to return year after year to keep the memory of your lived one alive long after their passing.
Can the site do more?
If a virtual memorial for your loved one can also serve as a place to store family pictures or videos, there is added benefit to you and your family. Additionally, sites that offer supplemental services like online funeral notices or audio message creation, could also be valuable. Try to get the most out of the page you create so that everyone can use the site as a source of information and encouragement for a long time.
