Featured projectHonoring a Pioneering Doctor
Mother • Colleague • Wife • EGFR Resister
The back storyThe client request
The planning for Ildiko’s service began a few weeks prior to her death. Ildiko’s daughter knew that she wanted to spend some time grieving the loss of her mother and booked a consultation with our team.
Her family wanted to create a tribute that involved her whole community: friends, family, patients, colleagues, and any others who were positively impacted by her legacy through her work as co-founder of the EGFR Resisters, a group of doctors working hard to advocate for EGFR+ lung cancer research.
New Narrative was hired to work with Dr. Medve’s family on the full event planning, including venue selection, vendor management, invitation customization, and of course the streaming component of the event.
Planning
The process
The first meeting was held at the family home where, over the span of three hours, Scott’s family and selected close friends shared stories, evoking laughter and tears in equal measure. During the meeting, lead planner Christina was present, listening to these stories, taking notes, and painting a picture of Scott for suggesting creative ideas.
We knew this event would draw a crowd, so a large venue that was accessible was key to planning. We decided on Sky Hangar, a working helicopter hangar, which fit with our budget and held significant meaning to his family.
Over the span of four weeks we worked with Scott’s family to organize the self-supplied food and bar service, decor, live streaming, and several performances from Vancouver-based bands.
On the dayCelebration
Our meticulous planning came to life as our team prepared at the venue the day prior to the ceremony.
On event day, guests were able to join however they were able, learn more about Ildiko’s multifaceted life, and mingle with other friends and colleagues.
We had her favourite colourful flowers on each table and set up the room in a semi-formal manner: guests could choose to sit at the round tables or in one of the rows. This setup allowed for maximum seating and optimal guest comfort.
The ceremony was filled with heartfelt stories, virtual presentations, and a heartfelt slideshow curated by our team. After the ceremony, guests were invited to stay, share stories, and enjoy a drink while catching up with family, friends, and colleagues.
Specific tables with themed mementos allowed guests to write down cherished memories on memory cards, which was a personalized way to share stories and memories and a more creative alternative than a traditional guest book. The celebration brought together her friends and family in an inclusive space with many thoughtful details.
Vendor spotlight
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Venue
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Catering
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Audio-Visual
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Custom Programs
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Photography
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Florals
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Signage
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Zoom Facilitation