“Funeral planning” sounds scary and unpleasant. However, if you know that you would like your body to be cremated, we encourage you to complete the cremation planning process. The process is simple and affordable. Keep reading to learn tips on planning a direct cremation.
Reasons for Planning Your Cremation Service
Many families who find themselves in immediate need of funeral arrangements end up arguing about their loved one’s final wishes. Additionally, families left without a plan often overspend on funeral services because they feel strange shopping around for the best prices for such a meaningful event. When left to make their own decisions, your loved ones may work with a funeral home and opt for a traditional funeral followed by a graveside service – because of family tradition. (It’s worth noting that a traditional funeral service can easily cost over $10,000.)
However, if you prefer cremation for your final disposition, you must share this information with others. End-of-life planning also makes you more frugal because you can shop for the best prices and select the exact type of service you want. Pre-paying for cremation also allows you to lock in current rates.
How to Pre-Plan for a Simple Cremation and Memorial Service
Are you ready to make your own cremation service arrangements? Here are some general guidelines to consider if you are concerned about cremation costs.
Consider direct cremation.
The simplest and least expensive of all cremation options is direct cremation. During this process, the deceased’s physical remains are removed from the place of death to the crematorium. Once the process is completed, the cremated remains are returned to the family.
There are many benefits to direct cremation. First, it appeals to those uncomfortable with the idea of having their body on display at a visitation or viewing. Direct cremation is also less expensive than a traditional cremation because you save on transportation costs, embalming, cremation caskets, and fees from having services at a funeral home.
Plan your memorial services.
Another benefit of cremation is that it gives endless possibilities for your celebration of life/memorial service. Because the body will not be present, you can select the best location for you. (And your family can plan the event at the most convenient time for them.)
Pre planning allows you to select the photo to be used as the visual focal point of the service. You can also gather family photos you wish to have displayed, write your own obituary, and select poems and other readings.
Plan your final resting place.
The last step in the process is to select a final resting place for your cremated remains. You may decide to have them buried in a cemetery plot, entombed in a mausoleum or columbarium niche, or have a scattering ceremony at a special place.
Make Things Easy For Your Family Members by Planning with Smart Cremation
Pre-planning with Smart Cremation is a straightforward process. There are no hidden costs, and we’ll secure your prepaid funds in a state-approved trust account until your family needs the money to pay for your cremation.
Get a free guide and related resources by filling out the contact form on our website. You can complete the entire process quickly. Talk with one of our funeral professionals today.
