Hollywood Forever Resources
The History, Culture, and Tradition of Jewish Cemeteries in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has a diverse array of communities, each of which has its own rich cultural and religious history. The Jewish community, in particular, has deep roots and strong traditions — and has contributed significantly to the cultural fabric of the city.
The Jewish cemeteries in Los Angeles are not just final resting places but also[...]
Recent Articles
Everything You Need to Know About Cemetery Monuments
Cemetery monuments serve as lasting tributes to loved ones who have passed away. They help us honor their legacies and provide a tangible way for us to remember them and pay our respects. In this article, we delve into everything you need to know about cemetery monuments, their role in the grieving process, personalization options, costs, and[...]
Ngaben: A Guide to the Balinese Hindu Cremation & Funeral
In Bali, Indonesia, life and death are deeply intertwined.
The Balinese believe that both life and death are part of a spiritual cycle that flows without pause — a belief that is vividly expressed in Ngaben, the Balinese Hindu funeral and cremation ceremony.
Often referred to as the ‘soul liberation’ ritual, Ngaben is one[...]
Why Los Angeles Is the Ultimate U.S. Destination for Día de los Muertos
Los Angeles stands out as the premier destination for Día de los Muertos in the United States, offering an unparalleled fusion of tradition and modernity. The city’s cultural diversity, rich Mexican-American heritage, and artistic vibrancy transform this celebration into something truly extraordinary.
From the massive festival at[...]
The Role of Flowers in Japanese Funeral Traditions: Symbolism, Arrangements, and Customs
In Japan, funerals are intricate ceremonies steeped in tradition and reverence.
While in the West, funerals often focus on personal reflections and celebrations of life, Japanese funerals typically adhere to a strict formality that underscores the occasion’s deep cultural and spiritual significance. At the heart of these solemn[...]
Floral Tributes in Hindu Funeral Traditions: Understanding the Significance of Garlands and Offerings
Flowers have long held a special place in Hindu culture, symbolizing purity, devotion, and the sacred connection between the earthly and divine. In Hindu funerals, this symbolism takes on a profound meaning, as flowers become a vital part of the rituals that honor and bid farewell to a loved one.
In this blog, we explore the role of[...]
Resting in Grandeur — Discovering the World’s Most Iconic Cemeteries
Robert Louis Stevenson, essayist, poet, and travel writer, once wrote:
“There is a certain frame of mind to which a cemetery is, if not an antidote, at least an alleviation. If you are in a fit of the blues, go nowhere else.”
Cemeteries are far from being mere final resting places for our departed loved ones. Like Stevenson,[...]
Where to Store Your Loved Ones Cremated Remains After Cremation
The loss of a loved one is perhaps one of the most difficult things we experience in our lives. It can leave a profound void, and navigating the grief can be a challenging journey. Finding a way to honor a loved one’s memory can help provide a sense of comfort. If your loved one was cremated, then memorializing their cremated remains can be a[...]
Green Burial Options: Tree Burial, The Ancestral Forest Project, and Cremation
There has been a significant shift in how people approach the final farewells of their departed loved ones over the last few years. This is largely due to a rising awareness of environmental sustainability, leading to more people opting for eco-conscious alternatives over traditional burial practices.
In fact, according to the National[...]
Scattering Cremated Remains: Legal Considerations and Meaningful Rituals
Cremation has become the preferred choice for many Americans when saying their final goodbyes to loved ones. This shift began in the early 1980s and has continued to grow steadily over the years. Today, more than 59% of Americans opt for cremation either for themselves or loved ones, reflecting a significant change in the preferences[...]