Home Vigils
What is a Home Vigil?
The time right after death before your loved one is taken to a funeral provider is often rushed or hidden away, but can actually be a meaningful and sacred period of time. During this period you may choose to wash and dress your loved one, sit at their bedside, tell stories, or say things to them you were not able to say before their passing. It can be as simple or ritualized as you need.
You have the option to keep your loved one at home for (up to) 24 hours, though even a few hours can be enough. Similar to a Wake, this option gives your family time to be physically present and to mourn alongside your loved one.
This is a safe and legal practice that can be an important step in your grief and healing.
How Does it Work?
A trained home vigil guide will speak with you in the time leading up to the loss of your loved one or in the immediate time after.
The guide will provide step-by-step guidance, involving your family as much or as little as you'd like. Steps will include things like putting ice packs around the body, washing and dressing the body, lighting candles, and inviting you to share time with your loved one.
After you've had the time you need, which is typically a few hours, we will arrange for transportation into our care.
Starting at $720 for fully-guided vigils
Starting at $400 for family-led (virtual) vigils
Contact us to learn more