About Houston
Located just inland from Galveston Bay, Houston was founded by land investors in 1836 and has seen rapid growth in every decade since, especially during the Texas oil boom. Once a busy trading post and port, today Houston is a nationwide leader in healthcare, scientific research and technology.
NASA’s Johnson Space Center, home of mission control for the shuttle program, is located in the city, along with a host of outdoor attractions including water and theme parks, professional sports and the nearby Galveston Bay.
You’ll find many upscale and boutique shopping opportunities in the city, including the nation’s fourth-largest shopping center, the Galleria. Foodies will find everything from authentic Mexican street foods to gourmet fusion foods and Texas famous dry-rubbed barbecue.
With numerous venues both modern and historic, you should have no problem finding a Houston memorial space that honors your friend, family member or colleague. There are also many local businesses offering services to support your event, allowing you to host a beautiful memorial service without added stress.
Memorial Space Options in Houston
Planning a memorial can be stressful and emotional, so you’ll want to leave some things, such as food or flowers, up to local vendors with many years of experience providing services to grieving friends and families.
- Catering
A memorial service may seem like a somber occasion that doesn’t require food, but having a meal or light hors d’oeuvres on hand may keep conversation flowing and guests talking to each other. Houston has many restaurants and catering companies available to provide anything you might need, whether your memorial is held in the morning, afternoon or evening. You’ll find a variety of options for cuisine, and most special dietary needs can be accommodated.
- Florists
Flowers are an important part of any memorial service, reminding those attending of some of the deceased person’s favorite things. There are several florists in Houston who specialize in creating elegant memorial displays, including wreaths, casket sprays, wearable flowers and display pieces. Because Houston has a mild climate much of the year, most types of flowers can be imported by the florist.
- Furniture Rentals
Depending on where you’re holding your memorial service, you may need some essentials such as chairs, tables or audio equipment. There are many rental agencies that can provide these things and more, depending on the type of service, including tents for outdoor memorials, sound equipment, small gathering tables, water coolers or decorative items.
Memorial Space Companies in Houston
Planning a memorial service can be one of the most difficult things to concentrate on in a time of grief. A professional memorial planner can help you by providing information, logistics, organization and emotional support.
- Bradshaw-Carter Funeral Home
For 20 years, Bradshaw-Carter has been hosting respectful, funeral and memorial services in a location that feels more like a home than a strange, sterile environment. The company is dedicated to providing services to one family at a time to ensure everyone has time to grieve and celebrate life at their own pace. The firm provides funeral and cremation services, veteran services, burial services and cemetery options. Headstones and other memorial options are also offered.
- Dynasty Memorial Mortuary
The professional staff at Dynasty Memorial Mortuary has been offering supportive, respectful services for many years. Staff is on hand to offer assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, helping guide many difficult choices. The firm offers funeral, memorial, burial and cremation services in both English and Spanish, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to grieve friends or loved ones.
- Graceful Memorial Chapel
Graceful Memorial Chapel founders James and Kimberly Rix have been providing caring funeral and memorial services to the Houston community for more than 15 years. The firm offers several options, including traditional funerals, memorial services, crematory services and graveside services. They can also help get the remains of your loved one to their home in another state or country.
Pros and Cons of Memorial Spaces in Houston
Parks, funeral providers and private homes can serve as beautiful memorial spaces in Houston, but there are some advantages and disadvantages you should consider before making a decision on the exact venue.
Advantages
- Mild winters
Winter, as well as late fall and early spring, are still pleasant enough for an outdoor memorial service in Houston.
- Location
Houston is home to a busy international airport and is located not far from other major population centers including Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio.
- Green spaces
Houston has more than 50,000 acres of park space within the city limits. A quiet walk with loved ones after the memorial service may be just what is needed.
Disadvantages
- Can be expensive
Amenities, lodging and transportation can be more expensive in Houston than in many major cities in the region. If a group of family and friends are attending from far away, seek out a group discount for the hotel.
- Unpredictable weather
Low-lying areas of Houston are prone to flooding and the city is frequently in the path of Gulf storms and hurricanes.
- Parking
Houston is large and sprawling, making for long commute times and gridlocked freeways. Once at the destination, parking can be an issue as well. Choose a venue with adequate room for vehicles.
Famous Locations in Houston
- Downtown Aquarium
Housed in historic buildings that formerly served as Fire Station No. 1 and the Central Waterworks, the Downtown Aquarium is a complete dining and activity adventure center. Visitors can view many exhibits, including the Texas Bayou, rainforest, sunken temple and discovery zone. The aquarium has more than just water-dwellers – it’s also home to an impressive tiger habitat. There are also carnival games and exciting rides for all ages, along with a one-of-a-kind dining experience beneath a 150,000-gallon aquarium.
- Art Car Museum
The Art Car Museum, also known as Garage Mahal, opened its doors in 1998 as a place to honor and display contemporary art. The museum features elements of fine arts, folk art and public art in many different mediums. With new themes being introduced often, pieces in the museum cover everything from Houston’s famous rodeo to the southeast Texas landscape to the feelings of being trapped at home during a global pandemic. The museum also participates in the annual Houston Art Car Parade.
- Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
Spend a relaxing day strolling through beautiful gardens full of native Texas trees, wildlife and plants at the Arboretum and Nature Center. If the natural beauty and manicured lawns aren’t quite enough of an experience, the center also offers free nature and wildlife hikes daily. Much of the arboretum and park is dog-friendly and is a great place for picnics and other family gatherings.