October 10, 2025
in Articles
How to Plan a Beautiful and Respectful Wake or Memorial
During times of loss, the logistics of planning a gathering can feel overwhelming. While the terms wake and celebration of life both refer to honoring the deceased, they differ primarily in timing and tone. A wake is traditionally a more solemn gathering held before burial, often involving a viewing or presence of the body. A celebration of life is generally held after the burial and focuses purely on remembrance, often adopting a more personalized, uplifting, and flexible atmosphere.
Regardless of the style you choose, the purpose is the same: to create a compassionate, comforting space where friends and family can gather, share cherished memories, and find strength in community.
At Prestige Banquet Hall in Allen Park, Michigan, our team approaches these events with the utmost empathy and professionalism. We believe our role is to handle every detail discreetly, ensuring the setting is peaceful and allows you to focus solely on remembrance and connection.
Choosing a Space for Intimate Comfort
The venue should provide a calm, intimate atmosphere that feels welcoming, not overwhelming.
- Intimate Ballrooms: Our Sapphire or Emerald Ballrooms are ideally suited for memorial gatherings. Their comfortable sizes avoid the stark feeling of an empty room, offering an immediate sense of warmth for smaller to mid-sized groups.
- Adaptable Layouts: We can configure the space with a mix of comfortable seating, tribute stations, and light dining areas. This allows guests to move freely, chat quietly, and find a place for reflection.
- Atmosphere of Peace: We use soft, ambient lighting and neutral décor that provides a serene background, allowing your personal touches—such as photos and floral tributes—to be the focus.
The Logistics of Compassion: Our Role
The key to a peaceful memorial is flawless execution behind the scenes. Our team manages all logistical needs with discretion and efficiency.
- Discreet Catering: Food provides comfort and allows guests to linger and connect. We offer flexible, in-house catering options designed for ease of service, such as elegant buffets or passed hors d’oeuvres, which allow guests to eat at their leisure without formal interruptions.
- Tribute Technology: If you plan to share a video montage or offer eulogies, our integrated A/V systems ensure that tributes are played clearly and respectfully. We manage the technical details so that speeches and videos can be the emotional centerpiece they are meant to be.
- Simplicity in Booking: We understand that time and emotional energy are limited. Our planning process is streamlined and sensitive, ensuring your decisions are handled quickly and with clarity.
Making the Gathering Personal and Meaningful
While the ambiance should be peaceful, incorporating personal elements ensures the memorial truly honors your loved one.
- Memory Tables: Dedicate a space for guests to view photo albums, letters, or cherished belongings. This creates a quiet area for reflection.
- Visual Tributes: Utilize screens or large monitors to loop a slideshow of photos and video clips, providing a continuous, gentle tribute throughout the event.
- Specialized Florals: Work with your florist to choose flowers that held significance for the deceased or that contribute to a peaceful, elegant setting.
A Partner in Remembrance
During a difficult time, you should not have to worry about seating charts or sound systems. At Prestige Banquet Hall, we handle every detail with the utmost care, ensuring a setting that is dignified, respectful, and worthy of honoring a beautiful life.
If you are planning a memorial or celebration of life, please reach out. We are here to listen and assist with gentle guidance.
Call us at: (313) 928-1340
Get a quote: prestigehallap.com/get-a-quote