Palatine business focuses on personalizing memorial services

A new Palatine business is attempting to make the process of planning a funeral similar to the way an event planner organizes a wedding.

Debbie Williams and Beth Kingwill launched Loving Touches Memorial Services, specializing in event planning for funerals. The women say they focus more on celebrating the person's life.

"We're trying to make it more of a memorable experience rather than a lot of mourning and sadness," Williams said.

She noted that grieving will always be part of the day, as it is a necessary aspect.

The women create personalized DVDs and mementos and then help with catering, flowers, travel arrangements and other aspects of the funeral.

Williams, of Palatine, works with funeral homes, hospice facilities and hospitals.

She finds that Loving Touches' services are often sought after when the client is planning to have their loved one cremated. The celebration of life event can then be planned at a time that's more convenient as well as at a meaningful location, such as a park or someone's home.

Williams and Kingwill also work to make the traditional funeral more personal. The top product they produce is a personalized DVD with video clips and pictures with music.

Kingwill, of Inverness, handles this aspect of the business. She previously worked as a television producer as well as a professional in the advertising industry.

Before launching the business, Williams worked in the corporate world in the hotel industry. When her position was eliminated, she studied event planning at Harper College.

A situation that occurred several years ago following the death of her best friend prompted her to mold her event planning skills into the new business.

"It makes people feel better at one of the worst times of their lives," Williams said.

The price for the basic package, which includes the DVD production, is $1,000.

For more information, check out lovingtouchesmemorialservices.com or call (847) 991-0546.