Cremation planning by itself is a reasonably straightforward process when you work with an experienced cremation provider. However, planning for cremation with a funeral or memorial introduces additional factors that complicate the process. Our end-of-life checklist simplifies the process of arranging cremation, but these are the basic factors to consider when you begin planning for cremation:

Is Cremation Right for Your Family?

Cremation is an increasingly popular option, but it’s not the right solution for every family. Cremation offers:

  • Flexibility in the final disposition of the remains
  • Simplicity in arranging the details – fewer decisions and a streamlined process
  • Affordability – cremation is more budget-friendly than traditional burial
  • Environmental-friendliness; cremation alleviates land use and other environmental burdens.

However, some families still find that they prefer traditional burial. Discuss cremation with your family prior to cremation planning to determine whether it’s right for you.

Arranging a Direct Cremation

Arranging cremation by itself is a very simple process. A good cremation provider arranges most of the details with a single phone call using a streamlined process that doesn’t require the family to make a bewildering array of decisions. Planning for cremation by itself is the most affordable option, and it frees the family to plan a memorial at a later time.

Cremation Planning with a Funeral or Memorial Service

Families who want to say a final farewell to their lost loved ones pair cremation with funeral or memorial services. Planning for cremation with a memorial or funeral is similar to direct cremation, although the family must also make decisions about whether to offer a visitation, where to have the ceremony, what type of service to conduct, and who should speak at the service.

Typically, when a funeral is paired with cremation the funeral is held before the cremation and may feature a rented casket for visitation. When arranging cremation with a memorial, the cremation occurs first – sometimes with the family present to say farewell and gain closure – and the memorial is held after the cremation, with the urn present or with a large photo of the deceased as the focus for the ceremony.

Get More Info with Our End-of-Life Planning Guide and Checklist

Our end-of-life checklist and planning guide helps your family navigate the process of arranging a cremation. Fill out our fast and easy form, and download our guide on planning for cremation to make your final farewell a simple and easy process.