Honoring Life's Journey: Memorial & Celebration of Life Events at 440 Elm

Creating Space for Remembrance

A memorial or celebration of life is more than an event—it's a crucial moment for healing, remembrance, and honoring a life well-lived. Whether you're planning an intimate family gathering or a larger community tribute, these occasions require thoughtful attention to both emotional needs and practical logistics.

At 440 Elm, we understand the delicate balance of creating a meaningful tribute while managing the practical aspects during a challenging time. Our historic Long Beach landmark offers versatile spaces that can transform to reflect the personality and legacy of your loved one—from our soaring Sanctuary with 30-foot ceilings for larger ceremonies to our intimate Parlor with warm exposed brick for closer gatherings.

Supporting You Through Every Step

Planning a memorial comes with unique challenges:

• Timing uncertainties: Coordinating with family traveling from different locations
• Fluctuating guest counts: Difficulty predicting exactly who will attend
• Emotional considerations: Creating a supportive atmosphere while handling logistics
• Personalization needs: Ensuring the event truly reflects the individual being honored

Our team specializes in navigating these complexities with sensitivity and flexibility. We can adapt our spaces, menus, and service styles to accommodate last-minute changes while maintaining a dignified, personalized experience.

Defining a Meaningful Tribute

Every celebration of life has different goals. We help you create an event that achieves what matters most:

1. Creating closure: A structured event that helps attendees process their grief while celebrating memories
2. Bringing people together: Facilitating meaningful connections between friends and family who may not often gather
3. Honoring traditions: Incorporating cultural, religious, or personal elements that were significant to your loved one
4. Sharing stories: Creating opportunities for guests to exchange memories and experiences
5. Extending hospitality: Ensuring guests feel welcomed and cared for during a difficult time

Our Approach to Memorial Events

We recognize that memorial catering requires special consideration:

• Flexible food arrangements: Buffet or station-style service that accommodates varying attendance and allows guests to eat at their own pace. We can also combine this with off-site catering at a funeral home or church to create a seamless and unified experience across settings in this difficult time
• Extended service windows: Food presentations designed to remain fresh and appealing as guests arrive at different times
• Comfort-focused menus: Options ranging from traditional comfort foods to personalized selections that reflect your loved one's favorite cuisines
• Dietary inclusivity: Thoughtful accommodations for all guests, ensuring everyone feels considered
• Beverage services: From simple coffee and tea service to full bar options, customized to your preferences

Our on-site caterer, Bite Catering Couture, specializes in creating menus that can be adjusted based on your needs—whether that's a simple reception with light refreshments or a full meal that celebrates your loved one's favorite dishes.

Versatile Spaces for Every Need

Our 23,000 square foot facility offers multiple settings to accommodate different types of memorial gatherings:

• The Sanctuary: A grand space seating up to 900 theater-style for larger community memorials
• The Plaza: A beautiful outdoor area for up to 680 guests, perfect for garden ceremonies or open-air receptions
• The Parlor: An intimate setting with exposed brick for closer gatherings of up to 167 people
• Multiple foyers and side rooms: Spaces for photo displays, guest books, quiet reflection, or family gathering areas

Let Us Help You Honor Their Memory

Creating a meaningful tribute shouldn't add stress during an already difficult time. Our experienced team is ready to help you navigate the planning process with sensitivity and care.

Contact us to discuss how we can help you create a dignified, personalized celebration of life:

Location: Downtown Long Beach, less than 30 minutes from LAX, SNA, and LGB airports

• We're here to listen, support, and help you create a beautiful remembrance that honors your loved one's unique story and legacy.