The new millennium is only just 15 years old, but in that time we have seen a much broader acceptance of the practice of cremation taking hold. The Cremation Association of North America has repeatedly provided data that shows greater than 50 percent of North Americans will opt for cremation over traditional burial in just the next ten years. Selecting cremation for end-of-life planning is just the first of many choices and options available to those seeking a greener memorial.
Cremation, it is important to note, is not a replacement for a funeral. It is merely an alternative method for reducing one’s body to a more natural state. Those who select cremation still are able to have personalized memorial or funeral services. Options abound for how one wishes the final disposition of their cremated remains to be carried out.
A recent survey found that 1 in 5 families kept the cremated remains of a loved one in their home. While many stated they were comforted by keeping their loved one close by, others admitted they simply were unaware of other options. Whether keeping cremated remains in the home or memorializing them in a columbarium, urns for ashes is required.
Finding the proper urns for ashes of a loved one avails the family of a world of choice and even customization. Tasteful and dignified decorative urns for ashes come in different materials, shapes, and colors. It is important when selecting among the urns for ashes of a recently deceased friend or family member to take into account their personality, hobbies, and causes which they found important.
Fully customized and designed urns for ashes are also available and, thanks to emerging technologies, can be created in a short amount of time and made to any size or shape specifications. One such company, Foreverence, is leading the way in custom-designed urns and cremation boxes. With the advent of 3-D printing technology, the company can design, build, paint, and deliver a remarkably personalized urn for ashes. One of their most notable clients, to date, was 80s New Wave band Devo co-founder Bob Casale. In no time at all, Foreverence was able to deliver a customized urn to the Casale family in the shape of, (you guessed it), Devo’s signature ‘Energy Cone’ hat.
Choosing between cremation and traditional burial is the first of many options available to those seeking to preplan for their end-of-life. Thankfully the compassionate and caring staff at Smart Cremation are experts in the field and they will gently guide you through each and every option and scenario you have questions about. Contact Smart Cremation today!