The TV show American Pickers follows its hosts around the country searching out antique collectibles for re-sale or for their own collections. Likewise, scout troops and grade school classes invite young collectors to share treasures of baseball cards, Matchbox cars or Barbie dolls. I always find people’s treasures to be of interest. The “who,” “what,” “where,” “when” and “why” of it all tells a great story. And who among us doesn’t like a great story?
What better place to exhibit favorite collections than in a funeral home? For those who think that a sterile environment is more comforting – think again. Collections allow a pleasant distraction, common ground, and PR opportunities. Even hospitals have become more “user friendly” and brighter. Studies show that décor affects our moods and even our health. Collections bring a sense of history, a connection to the community, knowledge, enjoyment, and a glimpse of the owner’s personality.
A recent visit to Pike Funeral Home in Bridgman, MI held a delightful surprise – in the men’s room! Please understand that I’m not ever in the habit of frequenting men’s rooms. However, owner Kraig Pike invited me to take a look at this most unique décor. Arranged on the walls were license plates from all 50 states, spanning decades. What started off as a fun idea morphed into this great collection which also includes automobile and other “road trip” mementos. “Friends, family and visitors assisted with the collection by obtaining ‘missing’ plates,” said Pike. “It seems that young visitors, after ‘paying their respects’ in the men’s room, would grab their dad’s or grandfather’s hand to pull them inside and share this unexpected discovery.” Kraig Pike brought fun, whimsy and history to his guests within the confines of a memorable restroom.
Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home in Osceola, IN features a permanent veteran’s display. Starting eight years ago, their annual Veterans Day recognition has grown into a community event. Richard Koschnick, manager, invited the community to bring photos of veterans and share their story. The memorial service was so well-received that the temporary photo gallery grew into an impressive wall collection of over 150 head shots. Koschnick is proud that they honor vets daily and provide a sense of history for the locals. Chapel Hill visitors scan the gallery for connections such as a next door neighbor, a schoolmate or a relative.
Other memorable collections seen in my travels include:
• Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia, IN has a collection of intricate, award-winning wood carvings crafted by a previous generation funeral director/owner.
• Lawn Funeral Home, Tinley Park, IL has a collection of Disney figurines housed in gorgeous curios throughout the location.
• Connolly Brothers Funeral Home, Covington, KY has valuable, signed sports memorabilia collected over the years.
Considerations when displaying a collection:
• Use themes of local interest – sports themes, Victorian Christmas villages, John Deere miniatures, etc.
• Organize in a visually pleasing way by color, shape, similarity
• Arrange on walls or, for security, place in locked curio cabinets
A collection can be the seed of a great conversation and can provide an interlude to reminisce. It is also a welcome distraction during a stressful time. Funeral directors are used to displaying others’ memorabilia to honor a life. Consider displaying a passion or pastime of yours. You never know where that conversation may lead. If done right, a collection will make you and your business memorable. It’s just another way to compliment your excellent service and make families feel so comfortable that they will want to come back to you - not to mention the fun to be had and conversations to be enjoyed!
To paraphrase Capital One – “What’s in your collection”?