I just received a tip from a lovely reader who recently completed her own family reunion scrapbook.
In response to my mom’s humble page design ideas, the reader advised creating an “In Memoriam” layout to pay tribute to family members who’ve passed away since the last family reunion. I love that idea! What’s more, you can make the spread as simple or elaborate as you wish. If you are blessed to have only a few deaths in the family since your last reunion, then design your page(s) accordingly. For example, in addition to adding a photo of the deceased loved one, you could also include a few anecdotes from those closest to him or her. Also, consider adding a few personal mementos that illustrate your relative’s personality.
Another simple addition to an “In Memoriam” layout–or any family reunion page design–is a sentimental phrase, famous quote or familiar saying that speaks to the closeness you share as a loving clan. Some examples include:
“Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one.”–Jane Howard
“You don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them.”–Desmond Tutu
“The family is one of nature’s masterpieces.” –George Santayana
“An ounce of blood is worth more than a pound of friendship.”–Spanish Proverb
“In every conceivable manner, the family is link to our past, bridge to our future.”–Alex Haley
“Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible; the kind of atmosphere that is found in a nurturing family.”–Virginia Satir
“Family: A social unit where the father is concerned with parking space, the children with outer space, and the mother with closet space.”–Evan Esar
The popular quotes can be used as page borders, fillers on frames or written in conversation bubbles and placed near photos of select family members.
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