Thoughtfully planned memorial events

Beyond the Chapel

in non-traditional spaces

Beyond the Chapel is an offering from Holding Space Events, providing thoughtfully held memorials beyond traditional spaces. We create calm, intentional gatherings that reflect the life being honored and the people who loved them.

A memorial in a chapel may be necessary—but it may not be how or where you want to be remembered.
For many, remembrance feels more meaningful in a favorite place, at a time of day that mattered.

Holding space for you to thoughtfully plan, gather, and share memories of your loved one.

A favorite place. A meaningful time.

Learn more about our Services

“It will be the little things that you will remember, the quiet moments, the smiles, the laughter. And although it may seem hard right now, it will be the memories of these little things that help to push away the pain and bring the smiles back again. There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.”

– Mahatma Gandhi

“Holding Space” is about being fully present to support someone as they sit with and feel their emotions.

The process of planning and participating in end-of-life events can be transformative. Rituals carry us emotionally from one place to another, easing pain and creating connection. Our planning and facilitation team is here to support and bring communities together to celebrate the life of a loved one.

While the necessity of virtual-only events is hopefully behind us, a virtual option remains essential to every gathering so everyone who would like to participate can do so - from near and far.

We are holding space for you to gather, share, and preserve memories of your loved one…

What is Holding Space?

What our clients say...

  • “Thank you, Suzanne. I have been receiving a lot of positive feedback from this beautiful experience you facilitated for us.”

    ~ Shared by Emma A. after an event for a co-worker with colleagues and family attending from around the world.

  • “Thank you Suzanne for everything you did to put this together. We have heard from many people about how moved they were by the service. Many people have reached out to comment on its beauty and quality, and for us the family it felt moving and, as importantly, manageable.”

    ~Shared by Ben and Peter

  • “Appreciating, respecting, and conserving nature was very important to our parents. One reason we picked Holding Space Events to host the virtual part of our celebration is because they share that value.”

    ~A message shared by Gretchen D. with her guests after scheduling a celebration of life for her mother.

  • “I can't thank you enough for making it possible for us to provide our family and many friends and colleagues such a meaningful program of remembrance. We have received many compliments from attendees, and we for sure could not have envisioned, let alone brought to fruition, this beautiful celebration of his life without you and your Holding Space Events team. “

    ~Shared by Andrea after a Celebration of Life for her brother

  • “The event was incredible and we’ve heard the same from most attendees. Thank you for everything you, Jamie, and your team did to pull it together. I am immensely grateful. The PDF is a wonderful keepsake!!”

    ~from Michelle, after a Celebration of Life for a dear friend.

  • “Thank you Suzanne, that came together beautifully and was exactly what we wanted to celebrate my father’s life. Thank you for helping us to get it together so quickly, and running a smooth, beautiful memorial.”

    ~Shared by Sarah after an event for her father.

  • “I can not believe I’m feeling joy planning an event I do not want to have.”

    ~Shared by Ray during a planning session.

Holding Space Events donates trees in your loved one’s name.

Why plant trees?