Cremation has become so popular in recent years because families have realized how direct cremation offers many more service options. If you are looking for something different than a traditional funeral followed by burial, consider hosting a “cremation ceremony” for your loved one.
Some facilities allow families to participate in the actual cremation process. However, some families prefer to have a cremation service that focuses on the lives of their loved ones instead of their death. Regardless of whether you call it a scattering ceremony, memorial service, or celebration of life, here’s a quick guide on how to plan a cremation service.
Select the date and spread the word to your extended family members.
Unlike the rush of planning a traditional funeral service, you’ll be able to create a meaningful event that is truly a celebration of life when you are given a chance to ponder cremation service arrangements.
You’ll be able to select a significant date and will be able to contact guests well ahead of time so they can arrange for transportation to the service and request time off work.
Consider the venue of the cremation service.
If one goal of the cremation ceremony is to gather together to scatter your loved one’s ashes, you’ll narrow down your venue options based on that location. However, if you have other plans for the cremated remains (such as keepsake urns), there are endless possibilities for venues. Making funeral arrangements are much easier when you aren’t limited to a funeral home or church.
Spend time planning a meaningful service.
One reason that funerals all seem alike is that, well, they often are. This is of no fault to your local funeral professional. Your funeral director may have tried to engage your family in a conversation about how to celebrate your loved one’s life best. However, during the fog of grief, most families can hardly think of a song when asked to select the music, prayers, and readings.
Cremation service planning is different. You’ll be able to get assistance from your family and friends when choosing the music, verses, or other readings. You’ll have a better idea about what your loved one would have wanted when you are given the opportunity to read the quotes they posted on their refrigerator or examine their playlist.
Gather items for displays.
Planning a cremation service is different than planning a traditional service because you need a visual focal point for the event – such as a large photo, flowers, or an urn. Of course, you can also ask family members to gather family photos for display.
Allow the rest of the family into the conversation on how best to celebrate the deceased. Their creativity might surprise you.
Plan your own end-of-life service.
As you plan a service for your loved one, you might think about what kind of cremation ceremony you would like one day. Begin the process to document your cremation intentions in writing by reaching out to Smart Cremation. Learn about cremation options and leave behind written instructions on how you would like your life to be celebrated.
