Saying goodbye to a loved one can be overwhelming. Not only will you need to deal with the emotional distress of the loss, but you will also experience physical and financial challenges while planning their final wishes. Today, more and more people are seeing the benefits of cremation. While less involved than a traditional burial, cremations are also more affordable. You may not know where to begin when arranging a loved one's cremation. Here are a few planning tips to consider.

Service Type

One common misconception people have about cremation is that there cannot be a funeral service. Fortunately, this is not true because most funeral homes and crematoriums allow you to customize your loved one's service.

Most people will choose to cremate their loved one before having a memorial service at the funeral home. The urn with the cremated remains can be displayed in the funeral home along with a portrait of your loved one.

Another option to consider is to have a standard viewing before the cremation. This will require embalming the deceased, which will increase the cost. However, it is a great way for you and family and friends to get closure.

You can also choose a basic cremation without any type of memorial service. This is the most affordable option.

Final Resting Place

Traditionally, cremated remains are placed in an urn for the family. This allows you to take your loved one's remains and store them as you see fit.

Many people will choose to keep the urn in their home, displaying it on a fireplace mantle or shelf. Some people will keep the urn packed away.

There are many options to consider for your loved one's final resting place.

Burying your loved one's cremated remains is possible. You can purchase a burial plot in a cemetery that allows the burial of cremated remains.

Scattering the ashes is common, as well. You should choose a location suited to your loved one's life and personality. For example, if they loved the beach, scatter their ashes at their favorite beach or in the ocean. If they preferred the mountains, scatter their cremated remains in a beautiful mountain valley.

It is important to note that there are legal obligations to consider. Before scattering cremated remains, you must contact local authorities for approval.

Finally, many people are choosing to incorporate their loved one's ashes into jewelry, artwork, and even tattoos. Discuss these options in more detail with the crematorium specialist if you would like more information. 

Contact a business like Neptune  Society for more information.

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