How to Invite Family Members to Contribute to a Memorial
Ways to Share Memories, Photos, and Stories Together
An online memorial becomes truly special when multiple family members contribute their memories, photos, and stories. Each person has a unique perspective and different memories that together paint a fuller picture of your loved one. But inviting family members to contribute can feel daunting — you may not want to pressure anyone, or you may not know how to ask. This guide will show you how to invite family members in a thoughtful, compassionate way that encourages participation without pressure.
How to Invite Family Members
Choose the best way to reach out to your family:
Personal Emails
Send individual emails to family members with a warm, personal invitation. Include the memorial link and specific examples of what they could contribute.
Messaging Apps
Reach out through WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or SMS text messages. This is often the quickest way to connect with multiple family members.
Family Group Chats
Post the invitation in a family group chat where everyone can see it. This also encourages group participation as people see others contributing.
Social Media
Share the memorial link on social media with an open invitation for extended family and friends to contribute their memories.
What Family Members Can Contribute
Let family members know they can share any of these:
Photos
Ask family members to share photos from different stages of life — childhood, weddings, family gatherings, holidays, and everyday moments.
Written Memories
Invite family members to write down their favorite memories, stories, or special moments they shared with your loved one.
Personal Tributes
Encourage family members to write their own tributes, expressing what your loved one meant to them personally.
Family History
Ask older relatives to share family history, traditions, and stories that might not be widely known.
Video Messages
Invite family members to record short video messages sharing memories or telling stories about your loved one.
Condolences
Remind family members they can also simply leave a condolence message in the guestbook if they are not ready to write a full tribute.
Sample Invitation Messages
Use these templates to invite family members to contribute:
Warm personal invitation
""Hi [Name], I have created an online memorial for [Loved One] at [link]. I would love for you to be a part of it. If you have any photos, memories, or stories to share, please add them. Your perspective is so important, and I know [Loved One] would love seeing everyone come together to remember them.""
Specific photo request
""Hi [Name], I am creating a memorial for [Loved One] and would love to include some photos from your collection. If you have any pictures from [specific event/time period], please upload them to the memorial at [link]. Thank you for helping me honor their memory.""
Invitation to share stories
""Hi [Name], I know you have so many wonderful memories of [Loved One]. I have created a memorial page at [link] where we can all share our stories. Would you consider adding your favorite memory? It would mean so much to have your perspective included.""
Gentle group invitation
""Dear family, I have created an online memorial for [Loved One] at [link]. This is a space where we can all share photos, memories, and tributes. Please feel free to contribute whenever you feel ready — your stories and photos will help us remember and celebrate their beautiful life.""
Helpful Tips
Be specific about what you are asking for
Instead of a general "please contribute," ask for specific things like "photos from their childhood" or "stories about their sense of humor." This makes it easier for people to know how to help.
Make it easy to contribute
Share the memorial link clearly and explain how to add content. Let them know no technical skills are needed.
Be patient and understanding
Everyone grieves differently. Some family members may not be ready to contribute right away, and that is okay. Let them know the invitation is open-ended.
Lead by example
Start by adding your own photos and stories to the memorial. When family members see you have contributed, they often feel more comfortable doing the same.
Follow up gently
If you have not heard from someone, it is okay to send a gentle reminder after a week or two. Keep it warm and understanding, not pushy.
Show appreciation
Thank everyone who contributes. A simple "thank you for sharing this beautiful memory" goes a long way.
Who Should You Invite?
Immediate Family
- Parents and siblings
- Children and grandchildren
- Spouses and partners
Extended Family
- Aunts, uncles, cousins
- Nieces and nephews
- In-laws
Close Friends
- Childhood friends
- Coworkers
- Community members
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I invite family members to contribute to an online memorial?
Share the memorial link with family members via email, text message, or social media. Include a personal message inviting them to add photos, share memories, or leave a tribute in the guestbook. Be specific about what they can contribute.
What should family members contribute to a memorial?
Family members can contribute photos, videos, written memories, stories, favorite quotes, and condolences. They can also help fill in details about family history, childhood memories, or special moments you may not know about.
How do I ask family members for photos?
Be specific and appreciative when asking for photos. Ask for photos from specific time periods or events. Let them know you are creating a memorial to honor your loved one and would love to include pictures that capture their life.
What if some family members are not comfortable contributing?
Everyone grieves differently. Some family members may not feel ready to contribute, and that is okay. Let them know the invitation is open-ended and they can contribute whenever they feel comfortable.
Can multiple family members contribute to the same memorial?
Yes. The memorial is designed for collective remembrance. Multiple family members can add photos, stories, and tributes from their own perspectives.
How do I handle conflicting memories or stories?
Remember that people remember things differently. A memorial can include multiple perspectives — each story is valid and reflects the relationship that person had with your loved one.
Should I ask extended family or just immediate family?
Consider inviting anyone who had a meaningful relationship with your loved one. Extended family, close friends, coworkers, and community members can all contribute valuable memories.
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