Hollywood Forever Resources
A Step-by-Step Guide To Planning a Memorial Service
Planning a memorial service can feel like a lot to manage, especially during a difficult time. This guide is here to help, offering thoughtful steps to create a meaningful tribute that brings people together in remembrance and[...]
Recent Articles
How To Preplan a Funeral
Preplanning a funeral is a meaningful way to ensure that final wishes are honored while relieving loved ones of the emotional and financial stress of making arrangements during a difficult time.
Taking the time to plan ahead allows you to make informed decisions about many aspects of a funeral, from choosing a method of disposition[...]
Sympathy Gift Ideas for Friends and Family Who Are Grieving
Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences a person can face. If a family member or friend is navigating grief, your support could make all the difference.
At this time, a well-chosen sympathy gift can offer comfort, help ease the pain, and remind the grieving person that they are not alone.
In this post, we[...]
What To Do When a Loved One Dies: A Practical Checklist
Losing a loved one is an experience that brings with it a flood of emotions, a sense of disbelief, and often, the overwhelming task of managing practical matters while navigating grief.
During such moments, it’s important to take things one step at a time.
We hope this practical checklist on what to do when someone dies[...]
What Does It Mean To Have a Good Death? Perspectives from Around the World
Death is a deeply personal experience, and what constitutes a “good death” can look very different depending on which part of the world you come from.
According to an Institute of Medicine report, a good death is defined as one that is “free from avoidable distress and suffering for patient, family, and caregivers, and[...]
The Rituals and Symbolism of Buddhist Funerals
In Buddhism, death is viewed as a transition in the cycle of saṃsāra—the continuous journey of life, death, and rebirth. This belief profoundly influences Buddhist funeral practices designed to honor the deceased and support their spiritual journey.
Buddhism is one of the world’s largest religions and has been practiced for over[...]
Chinese Funeral Customs and the Importance of Ancestral Worship
The air is filled with the smoky scent of burning joss paper and incense, mingling with the delicate fragrance of chrysanthemums and lilies. Family members gather in quiet reverence, dressed in mourning attire—white and muted tones of black and navy are customary. These sights, sounds, and smells form the backdrop of a Chinese funeral, a[...]
Cremation Jewelry: A Way to Honor and Remember
When we lose someone, the void they leave behind can feel immeasurable, and finding meaningful ways to honor their memory becomes an important part of the healing process. For centuries, humans have sought to preserve the connection to loved ones who have passed, through rituals, keepsakes, and memorials. In recent years, cremation jewelry has[...]
The Meaning Behind Funerary Symbols and Grave Art
Cemeteries are timeless spaces where you can witness the convergence of history, memories, and artistry through beautiful funerary symbols and intricate grave art. This art plays a significant role in representing our personal stories, cultural values, and spiritual beliefs.
In this article, we delve into the history and meaning behind[...]
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[...]
