How to leave a message to be played after you die
Four steps to leave a message your family will hear after you are gone: decide who, choose video or voice, name a Playbearer, and say it.
Start with who will hear it
Picture the people you are choosing. Talk to one or two of them, not to a crowd. "My daughter" is easy to speak to. "Everyone" is not.
Step 1: Choose video, or voice with photos
If you are comfortable on camera, record a video. If you are not, record just your voice and add photos. The photos play while you speak. Many people find that easier, and it can be just as moving.
Step 2: Decide what to say
Keep it to three to five minutes. Thank someone, tell one story, say what you hope for them, and end your own way. Our guide to what to say has prompts, and our AI helper can ask them one at a time and write a first draft.
Step 3: Name your Playbearer
Someone has to tell us when the time comes. Choose one person you trust, like a pallbearer for your message, and a backup if you want one, who confirms it. Tell them you chose them so it is not a surprise.
Step 4: Record, and check it
- Find a quiet spot with the light in front of you.
- Say it once all the way through.
- Play it back. Keep it, or try again.
You can change it any time. See how a video is played at a funeral or will reading, and how posthumous message services compare.
Ready to leave yours?
It takes about fifteen minutes, and you can change it any time.