Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about creating and sharing a Candela memorial. Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out directly.
Getting Started
What is Candela?
A digital memorial platform for families. Create a permanent memorial page with photos, a guestbook, candle lighting, and a prayer card for Apple Wallet. Free to start, no app required.
How do I create a memorial?
Visit candela.memorial/register, enter their name and a photo, pick a prayer and theme. Takes about five minutes. You can add more photos, invite family, and customize later.
Is it really free?
The Light tier is free forever. It includes a memorial page, photos, guestbook, and candle lighting. Paid tiers (Memorial and Memorial+) add more features like AI photo tools, life timeline, and notable date reminders.
Do I need to download an app?
No. Everything works in a web browser. The prayer card saves directly to Apple Wallet, no app needed.
How long does it take?
About five minutes to create the memorial. You can continue adding photos and content at any time.
The Memorial
Can multiple people add photos?
Yes. Invite family and friends to contribute photos. Coordinators can moderate photos before they appear.
What is the guestbook?
A place for friends and family to share written memories and stories. Entries are moderated by the memorial coordinator.
What is candle lighting?
A simple gesture of remembrance. Visitors light a virtual candle, and the total forms a growing constellation on the memorial page.
Can I write an obituary?
Yes. Candela includes a free AI obituary writer that guides you through thoughtful questions and generates a personalized tribute in minutes. No account required to use it.
The Prayer Card
What is a digital prayer card?
A card that lives in your Apple Wallet. It includes the honoree’s photo, name, dates, and a selected prayer. Visible every time you open your Wallet.
How do people get the card?
Share a link or display a QR code. They scan with their phone camera and tap once to save. No app download, no account, no personal information collected.
Does it work without internet?
Yes. Once saved to your Wallet, the prayer card is available offline.
What prayers are available?
Candela offers prayers from multiple faith traditions, as well as secular reflections. You choose the prayer that feels right for your family.
Privacy and Permanence
Who can see the memorial?
You control visibility. Memorials can be private (link only) or public. You choose who has access.
Will it last? What about in 20 years?
Candela memorials are permanent. They do not expire, they are not deleted after 30 days, and they do not require renewal fees.
Can I export my data?
Yes. You can request a complete export of all photos, guestbook entries, and memorial data at any time.
Do you show ads?
No. Candela never displays ads on memorial pages. Your memorial is a sacred space, not an advertising platform.
Pricing
What do the plans include?
Light is free (photos, guestbook, candles). Memorial adds life timeline, guided obituary, more card designs, and photo enhancement. Memorial+ adds all AI features including photo dating, location identification, and smart search.
Is there a subscription?
No. You pay once per memorial. No monthly fees, no annual renewals. The Light tier is free forever.
They passed a while ago. Can I still create one?
Absolutely. Many people create memorials months or years after a loss. There is no time limit.
I’m pre-planning. Can I start now?
Yes. You can create a memorial at any time and continue adding to it. Pre-planning is a meaningful way to ensure memories are preserved.