Have you ever wished you could attend your own wake and hear what people would say about you? With a living wake, you can. More and more people choose to host a celebration of life while they’re still alive. They gather loved ones to share stories, enjoy music, and celebrate everything that makes life meaningful.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to plan a living wake that feels joyful, authentic, and memorable. Plus, we’ll show how live music — especially from a talented jazz band — can lift the atmosphere and make it truly special.
What Is a Living Wake?
A living wake is a gathering held in honour of someone while they are still alive. Rather than waiting until after death to celebrate a life, it gives friends and family the opportunity to share love, memories, and appreciation in real time.
It’s not a somber occasion — it’s a celebration. Whether you’re marking a milestone, facing a terminal illness, or simply want to bring people together while you can, a living wake is a beautiful way to say “thank you” and “I love you” while you’re here to hear it.
How to Plan a Living Wake
1. Choose the Right Tone
Do you want your living wake to feel like a party, a tribute, or something in between?
- Joyful and upbeat – with music, laughter, and dancing
- Reflective and heartfelt – with quiet conversation and meaningful words
- A mix of both – which often makes the most memorable celebrations
Being clear about the tone helps shape every other decision.
2. Create a Guest List That Matters
Invite people who have impacted your life — family, lifelong friends, colleagues, and even old schoolmates you’d love to reconnect with. A living wake is a rare chance to bring your whole story together in one room.
3. Pick a Comfortable Venue
You don’t need a grand hall. Some popular venue ideas for a living wake include:
- Your home or garden
- A favourite pub or café
- A private dining room
- A community hall or local venue
The key is that the space feels personal and welcoming. It should reflect who you are.
4. Plan the Music
Music is the heart of any celebration. For a living wake, live music creates an atmosphere that a playlist simply cannot. Consider hiring a jazz band to play your favourite songs. The warmth and spontaneity of live performance makes every moment feel real and present.
Silk Street Jazz specialises in performing at celebrations of life — both living wakes and memorial events. We tailor our setlist entirely to your tastes and the tone you want to create.
5. Include Personal Tributes
Invite close friends and family to share stories, poems, or short speeches. These personal tributes give the event real emotional depth. They also give guests something to take away — a memory, a laugh, a moment that stays with them.
6. Capture the Moment
Consider hiring a photographer or videographer. A living wake is a rare occasion. The photos and footage become treasured keepsakes for everyone who attends. Moreover, those who couldn’t be there in person can share in the celebration afterwards.
7. Don’t Overthink It
Above all, a living wake should feel like you. It doesn’t need to be elaborate or formal. It just needs to bring the right people together and celebrate a life well lived. Keep it personal, keep it warm, and let the music do the rest.
Why Live Music Makes a Living Wake Unforgettable
Live music adds something irreplaceable to a celebration of life. It fills the room with energy. It prompts spontaneous moments — a sing-along, a dance, a shared smile. Furthermore, it shows guests that this event is something truly special. Something worth being present for.
Silk Street Jazz has performed at living wakes, memorial celebrations, and celebrations of life across the UK. We bring warmth, professionalism, and genuine musical talent to every event. Contact us today to discuss how we can make your living wake truly unforgettable.