“I’ve told my children that when I die, to release balloons in the sky to celebrate that I graduated. For me, death is a graduation.” —Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

What if we celebrated leaving life as well as we do entering it? After all, it also only happens once.

Somber, staid traditions are kicking the bucket; death is experiencing a glow up. Green burial, aquamation, getting launched into space—these are just a few alternatives to traditional burial that have become available. My personal favorite? Becoming a diamond.

Similarly, I’ve been hearing and reading more stories about memorable, meaningful, and even fun events celebrating the end of life. Some of these events are held before someone passes away, such as a living wake, creating a beautiful opportunity to share stories and expressions of love and appreciation. These events can also combine party with practical, as was the case when Nicola Tomlin’s client had the idea to throw a will party.

Would you throw a will party? What about a living wake? Would you prefer a garden party, or beer and food trucks? Turn me into a diamond and pass the champagne.