Saudade /sou'dä de/
The love that lingers.

In Portuguese and Brazilian culture, the expression “saudade” is described as a longing – a profound melancholy – for what was. It often carries a deeper truth that the object of longing – a family member, a homeland, an unborn baby, a memorable experience – may never return. Infused with longing and love, it is the presence of absence and a feeling anchored in beautiful memory.

Saudade brings a feeling of happiness and sadness at the same time – a sadness for missing something so loved yet a happiness that you experienced the love.

About the Founder
Rebecca Mullins' vision for Studio Saudade took root in 2006, shortly after the sudden loss of a very dear friend. While helping prepare for the memorial service, she was deeply discouraged by the entire funeral experience. The limited, low-quality or overpriced options for commemoration left everyone scrambling for a more personal tribute that had deeper connection and meaning.

As a result, Rebecca designed her friend’s tribute personally, and she experienced firsthand how creative expression can provide an outlet for joy and reflection — even during a time of deep and painful sorrow.

This experience eventually guided Rebecca down a long, rocky path towards personal healing. Training as a hospice and bereavement volunteer, extensive specialty trainings, certifications and countless books on trauma, grief and loss coupled with 15 years of professional work in creative fields formed the foundation of the company.

Rebecca is dedicated to serving those in the process of grieving through creative expression and meaningful design. Under her leadership, Studio Saudade listens and gently guides, helping to soften clients’ suffering by identifying the pathways that will best enable them to have their stories witnessed and shared by friends and family.

With a profound respect for community, history, and heart, she is dedicated to transforming how we process and integrate loss.