A place for healing and reflection
Cremation continues to rise in popularity over traditional burial with over 50% of Americans now opting to be cremated after they die. However, despite this growing trend, a large majority of families don’t know what to do with the cremains (cremated ashes) they receive afterward. More often than not, the cremains remain stored in their respective containers for so long that they end up being forgotten.
There’s no need for this unfortunate scenario, as there are numerous unique options available for handling cremains. In addition to being placed in an urn, they can also be buried in a cemetery grave or interred above-ground in a columbarium niche. There are many options for memorial jewelry created from cremated remains, keepsakes and other objects.
Here are some ideas of what to do with cremated remains:
Scattering– you can scatter cremains in a meaningful location that was important to your loved one, e.g., the family homestead or a natural outdoor landscape (lake, mountain, forest). But proceed with caution when scattering on public land or private property – make sure you understand all the rules and regulations and seek permission before you begin. Some cemeteries also provide scatter gardens for families looking for a convenient and secure place to scatter cremains.
Containers– urns and keepsake containers allow you to keep your loved one’s cremated remains close by for comfort and security:
Urns – come in all shapes and sizes, forms and designs. An urn can be a simply constructed wooden box or a creative vessel designed to resemble an hourglass, holiday ornament, glass paperweight, or golf ball.
Jewelry – storing cremains in keepsake necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and rings is another special way to keep your loved one physically close to you.
Out of the Box – there are numerous unconventional ways to handle cremains. Each option varies in simplicity and cost but all are singular “final resting places” for your loved one.
Contact us if you have further questions on any of the memorial options we’ve outlined above.