When a loved one passes away, there are so many decisions to be made. Where will the funeral be held? What type of service should there be? What should be done with his or her remains? Navigating these questions while during grieving process can be exhausting and overwhelming.
The good news is, deciding what to do with cremated remains isn’t something that must be done urgently in the presence of a funeral home director. In fact, it’s best to take your time and choose the option that will bring you and your family the most peace.
If you’re wondering what to do with a loved one’s ashes, here are a few ideas to keep in mind.
Keepsake Urns
In many cases, people choose to keep the cremated remains of their loved one right in their home. Keepsake urns are decorative and affordable, come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are made out of a wide selection of different materials. Prices will vary, but some urns can start as low as under $40. Keepsake urns are also a great way for pet parents to preserve the remains of a four-legged family member who has passed over the rainbow bridge. For those with lots of pets, often one will gain a collection of keepsake urns over the years.
Scattering
Many people prefer to return the remains of their loved one to the earth by scattering their ashes. Popular places for ash scattering include gardens, hilltops, bodies of water and even golf courses. Keep in mind, however, that locations may be limited by the law in certain areas, so be sure to check with your local law enforcement agency first. Additionally, you’ll want to select a scattering urn that will allow you to keep your loved one's cremated remains secure while traveling to that special place. Some cruise ships and airlines require additional transport documentation so best to check.
Burial
Another popular option for interring a loved one’s cremains is burial. While there aren’t as many choices as scattering in terms of location, there are still several different options to consider when burying cremated remains. For instance, you could choose a traditional burial plot at a nearby cemetery, or you could bury the remains in a designated urn garden. Some people prefer to bury the cremated remains of a loved one on their own private property.
Cremation Art/Jewelry
For those who wish to keep the remains of their loved one even closer, cremation jewelry is a great option. There are many different designs and styles to choose from, including necklaces, pendants, rings or earrings. Each piece is infused with a small amount of cremains and handmade into a breathtaking heirloom that is both fashionable and deeply personal. If jewelry isn’t your thing, choose from a wide variety of beautiful cremation art, from paperweights to sun-catchers to touchstones and more. The options are practically endless as are the materials and styles at hand.
Living Memorial
Let your loved one’s legacy live on with a Memorial Tree Urn. This unique option combines the tradition of burial with the beauty of new life. Cremated ashes are placed into a specially designed, biodegradable urn and then “planted” in the ground beneath a seedling of your choice. Planting a memorial tree nearby and being able to watch as it grows into something mighty and strong while being nourished by the remains of the dearly departed is a powerful and touching way to celebrate life.
When someone close to us passes away, deciding what to do with their remains can feel overwhelming. We encourage you to take a deep breath, take your time and weigh your options – including the five popular ones listed above. At the end of the day, trust in yourself that you will find the perfect way to honor your loved one.
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