Cremation ceremonies give loved ones a chance to come together and honor the memory of a lost friend or family member. Unlike funeral services, which usually take place within a few days of someone’s passing, a cremation ceremony gives you the chance to plan ahead. Below are a few tips for planning a meaningful cremation ceremony that celebrates the life you’ve lost.

How to Plan a Cremation Ceremony

1. Choose a Place

Instead of having a funeral service at a funeral home or place of worship, you can have a cremation ceremony almost anywhere. You might decide to spread your loved one’s ashes at sea, or simply bring everyone together to pay their respects in your home. If you decide to spread their remains in a public area, check local laws to make sure it’s allowed.

2. Set a Time

A cremation ceremony can take place months after a loved one’s passing, or even longer, if necessary. This allows you to choose an ideal location and gives family members a chance to make travel plans. You might want to wait until the weather is perfect or people close to the deceased can make it.

3. Involve Other People

Waiting to celebrate the life of a lost loved one also gives you an opportunity to plan a more meaningful event. Friends or family members of the deceased may have ideas for special music, locations, or activities to help evoke the memory of the person you’ve lost.

4. Plan Interactive Activities

Involving your guests in a cremation ceremony will make them feel like they have a part in celebrating their departed loved one. For instance, you might consider putting up a photo board where guests can pin their favorite photos of the deceased. You may also collect some of the departed person’s favorite items for display, and invite others to do the same.

5. Decide on a Tone

Many families prefer an informal cremation ceremony that feels more like a party, in which friends and relatives share memories of the deceased. On the other hand, choosing elements that evoke a traditional funeral service may feel more appropriate for your situation.

Whatever you decide, communicate the theme you’ve chosen to your guests ahead of time. This will help them decide what to bring and how to dress for the ceremony.

Since 1976, Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals has been helping families throughout Rowan, Menifee, Fleming, Lewis, Carter, Montgomery, Morgan, and Bath counties say goodbye to their lost loved ones. Whether you’re planning a unique cremation ceremony or a traditional funeral service, their caring staff will help you honor the life you’ve lost. Visit their website for more on their funeral planning services, follow their Facebook for updates, or call (606) 784-6491 to speak with a staff member today.