Whether you're preplanning your own funeral or planning a funeral for a loved one, you have a lot of decisions ahead of you. Funeral homes offer many services that allow their patrons to plan completely customized funerals and memorials. They also typically offer burial and cremation services to simplify the after-death proceedings for families mourning their loved ones. If you're considering cremation, in particular, you may be wondering how it affects the rest of the funeral services. Here is the information you need before making the decision to go with cremation.
Benefits of Cremation
Cremation and burial are both excellent choices, and which one you choose depends on what you value. Cremations aren't as traditional in the United States as burials are, but they are typically less expensive and more environmentally friendly. Although cremations require a lot of energy, they don't really require anything else. Many people choose to be cremated in cardboard containers to save resources, and with afterburners and filtration systems, the smoke from the crematorium isn't a concern. Overall, if a cremation feels right for you or your loved one, it's a good choice.
Funeral Before Cremation
Choosing a less-traditional cremation doesn't mean forgoing all of the traditional funeral services. Embalming, viewings, and other traditional funeral services can still take place before the cremation is scheduled. This allows some families to allocate limited funds toward honoring the deceased rather than paying high burial costs. The funeral home you work with will help you plan a traditional funeral with viewings and eulogies. The only change is the lack of procession to a cemetery for burial, but you can plan a procession to a crematorium instead.
Memorial After Cremation
Memorials are different from traditional funerals because the deceased has already been buried or cremated. There are no viewings, but family and friends still gather to honor the deceased and pay their respects. Many families view memorials as celebrations of life, so keepsakes, photographs, and music dear to the deceased are usually showcased. The urn with their ashes may be present or absent. Although memorials aren't as traditional in the US, they are a worthwhile way to honor those who have passed and celebrate the life they lived.
Planning a cremation doesn't need to come with compromises. You can have the funeral service you feel right about while being economical and ecofriendly. Contact a funeral home in your area to learn more about your options when it comes to funeral services.
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