Living Wakes
A What Exactly?
You don’t have to wait until you’re gone for people to say the things you’ve always wanted to hear.
A Living Wake is your chance to hear them now.
The stories.
The laughs.
The truths people usually keep to themselves; your truth too.
And the love… the kind that’s so big, it usually shows up too late.
Instead of a funeral where you’re the only one not invited, this is a gathering where you get to be there—and really feel it.
It’s not about saying goodbye.
It’s about saying everything else—while you still can.
Whether you’re marking a milestone, facing something tough, or just feeling the pull to connect while you’re still here… a Living Wake is a gentle, beautiful, honest way to do it.
There are no rules. No dress codes. No sad sandwiches.
Just people who matter to you, sharing what’s in their hearts—while you’re still around to take it in.
This is your moment.
To reflect.
To reconnect.
To let it all land.
To laugh.
To cry (probably).
And to remember what it means to be deeply human.
A Living Wake isn’t the end.
It’s a beginning.
Of real conversations.
Of deeper connections.
Of leaving nothing unsaid.
You deserve to hear the good stuff—while your feet are still on the ground.
"Joelie supported and lead us so carefully and genuinely through the process of our dad's living wake before his VAD. It was everything he, and we, needed, in every way. SHe not only facilitated the event, but helped us all form a greater understanding from her knowledge & expertise. Everyone should be doing this." - tj,
What It Can Look Like
There’s no script. No timeline. No pressure to perform.
It might be a cozy backyard with fairy lights and wine.
A rented hall with a mic, music, and the people who’ve known you best.
Or just a quiet afternoon in your living room—stories shared over tea, tissues passed between laughs.
Some people share memories.
Some read letters.
Some cry.
A lot laugh.
Maybe someone sings.
Maybe someone roasts you (lovingly).
Maybe someone just sits close, holding your hand.
It can be big. Small. Loud. Gentle. Funny. Profound.
The only rule is: it feels like you.
Whatever you need it to be—this is your space to be celebrated, witnessed, and deeply seen. While you’re here.
My role is to facilitate it with you, side-by-side.
Ready to curate your story?
Get in touch for real talk, not small talk.