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As providers of cremation services in Dallas, TX. one of the most commonly asked question we get is if other services such as funerals can accompany a cremation. The answer is yes. Not only can families choose to have a funeral with a cremation, but they can also have a visitation, wake, celebration of life, and more. Today we are going to look at these services, what they are, and how they relate to cremations.

Funeral Services

As mentioned earlier just about everyone is somewhat familiar with a funeral service. This is a somber service that is typically religious in tone. It is often led by a religious leader or other leader in the church and is held right before the committal ceremony.

When having a cremation, the body of the deceased will be embalmed as it would with a burial. It will then be on display during the funeral in a casket that the family can either purchase or rent. After the service, instead of the body being taken to the cemetery, it will be taken to the crematory.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of life service is much more upbeat, happy, and celebratory than a funeral. It tends to focus on remembering the loved one and celebrating their memory and their life. These services can often feel more like a party than a service for a passing. They can be held before the or after the cremation and, while can be held in places like funeral homes, are often held in locations such a parks, restaurants and other event venues.

This event can take place before the cremation and the body can be present as with a funeral service or this event can take place after the cremation. Many families choose to hold the service after the cremation so they have more time to plan the event and give those who live out of town more time and flexibility to be able to attend.

Scattering Ceremony

Also called a casting ceremony, this event is held after the cremation. This is because during or at the end of the ceremony, the loved one’s ashes will be scattered or “cast” into the wind. Many people who choose cremation do so because they want their asked released back into nature. This ceremony is to perform that action and can be held much like a funeral with readings and eulogies or more free flow like a celebration of life event.

Committal Service

This service takes place at the gravesite. If your loved one has been cremated and is going to have their urn placed in a mausoleum or columbarium niche, the ceremony would take place at those locations. This service is typically much shorter than a funeral or other type of service. It normally just includes a short welcome, prayers or readings, and a closing.

Memorial Service

This service is probably the most common when people think of services associated with cremation. This service takes place after the cremation and can have the urn present or not. Many families choose this service because, since it takes place after the cremation, there is no rush and families can take extra time in planning the perfect event for their loved one.

Visitations, Viewings and Wakes

Some services always take place before the body has been cremated. These include visitations, viewings, and wakes. Although they differ slightly, these services allow for the body of the deceased to be present and for guests to pay their respects and say their last goodbyes.

With cremations these services are held the same way they would be with a traditional ground burial in that the body of the deceased will typically be embalmed so that it can be present in a casket during the service.

You can see that even with cremation services in Dallas, TX. families can choose from a wide variety of services that meet their personal and religious needs.

When a loved one passes away it can be devasting. This is even more true when two have passed together. This may be because of an accident or sometimes even because of broken heart syndrome. Whatever the reason, in this case the families may choose to have a double funeral. While this idea is more common when it comes to things like weddings or birthdays, providers of cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. share what you need to know when it comes to funerals.

What is the Order of Service at a Double Funeral?

When it comes to double funeral and the order of service, it is typically the same as that of a single funeral. There will be an introduction/welcome and then it will flow along from readings and prayers to eulogies and more. The main difference is that for the most part the funeral will focus on both of the deceased as one. There may be storied told and eulogies given that reflect on both of the individuals rather than just one. If there is a eulogy or such that is focused on just one, there will be another eulogy or such that will then focus on the other.

As far as the funeral home is concerned, they may give longer visiting hours for the visitation service or viewing. They may also give the family longer family time to ensure there is plenty of time for family to pay their respects to both of the loved ones.

An Example of a Double Funeral

An example of a double funeral is when actress Carrie Fisher passed away and her mom, actress Debbie Reynolds passed away a day later. Their family decided to give them a double funeral because of the close bond the mother and daughter held.

Considerations with a Double Funeral

There are a few special considerations to keep in mind when deciding if you should have a double funeral or not. The first one is you want to make sure you can accommodate the guest count. With a double funeral the guest count will be much higher than that of a single service.

Another consideration is to think of how the expenses will be split and divided up among the two parties. This can be an issue if the two loved one’s were from separate families. You will also want to make sure both parties’ religious beliefs are honored. If there are two different religions, you may have to incorporate elements from both.

Final Thoughts

Holding a double funeral may be a perfect option for some families as with the example of Carrie Fisher and her mom. If the two people had a close bond in life, having a double funeral can be a touching tribute. It is up to each individual family to decide if a double funeral is right for them and their situation.

As directors of cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. we understand how difficult this losing a loved one can be. If you would like more information about double or single funerals and how we can best honor your loved one, contact us anytime as we are always here to help.

With cremation services in Irving, TX. becoming more widely chosen, more and more ways to use the cremains are being invited each and every day. From sending them into space, to having them turned into a diamond there is no loss for ideas. Today we are going to talk about one of the newest trends called cremation fireworks.

What are Cremation Fireworks?

You might think of fireworks when it comes to holidays such as the Fourth of July, or special occasions like a football game or wedding. However, they are becoming more popular when it comes to cremations.

It’s called cremation fireworks and it uses a portion of your loved one’s ashes in the fireworks themselves. How it works is a small amount of the cremains (about three tablespoons) is loaded into an empty fireworks shell but a professional pyrotechnics company. There is a fireworks show about three to five minutes long and the last shell fired is the one with the cremains.

How Much are Cremation Fireworks?

The cost of the cremation fireworks show can range greatly in price. It depends on what company you hire to create the show, your location, as well as how long you want the show and what other types of fireworks are involved. An average for a three to four minute how can range around $2700.

Are Cremation Fireworks Legal?

If cremation fireworks are legal or not is a tough question. This is because in some areas they may be , while in others they may not. This is not only because of the cremains inside the fireworks, it is also due to the noise ordinances, if fireworks are allowed in certain areas of the city, burn and fire bans. along with a ton of other rules and regulations when it comes to fireworks.

If you are wanting to have a cremation firework show for your loved one, always check with not only the firework company but local law enforcement to ensure you are not breaking any laws.

Where Can I Find a Cremation Firework Company?

Cremation fireworks are still a newer concept. Because of this, there are limited companies offering this service. The best way to find a cremation firework company near you is to run an online search. You can do this buy going to Google and then typing in “cremation firework company near me” into the search bar. This should yield dome results. You might find that there are no companies super close to you. That is okay as many of these companies may travel within a certain miles radius.

Final Thoughts

If you want to do something truly unique for their loved one after their cremation services in Irving, TX., then cremation fireworks may be for you. Although it can be a little costly depending on what other fireworks you choose, it can be an original send off and celebration that makes a big impact. Just make sure you always check with local law enforcement to ensure you are obeying and rules and regulations governing fireworks and where they can be performed.

When it comes to cremation services in Dallas, TX., many families may choose to release the cremains of their loved one, some will opt for keeping them in an urn, and others may choose to have them buried.

One reason families may choose to have the cremains buried can be due to religious reasons while yet others may want them buried so there is a physical gravesite where family can visit. When the cremains are buried, one thing families will have to decide on is the headstone.

Choosing your loved one’s headstone can be a daunting task with so many types, materials, designs, and styles. Although there are many popular materials, today we are going to talk about granite which is one of the most commonly chosen.

About Granite Headstones

Granite is a beautiful natural stone that is very popular when it comes to headstones. Not only is this material very durable but it comes in a variety of colors families can choose from. Because granite is such a durable material, it can withstand most climates and, with regular maintenance, a granite headstone can last up to fifty years or longer.

Granite headstones can come in a variety of price points depending on the size, shape, and other factors you choose. A typical black engraved granite headstone will run on average around $500.

Granite Headstone Designs

Although granite headstones can be designed in a variety of shapes and symbols, there are a few common choices. These include:

• Traditional Headstone -These headstones are normally made in a rectangular shape and have the name of the deceased as well as the date of birth and date of death engraved on the front.
• Laser-Etched Headstone – This type of work adds to the overall price but is a nice addition for those families who may wish to include images of their loved one on the headstone. This process gives a more detailed, clearer image than regular engraving.
• Flat Grave Markers – These markers are different than upright headstones as these lay flush to the ground. They are a good option for those on a tighter or limited budget as they tend to not be as expensive as upright monuments.
• Heart Shaped Headstones – This is a very popular design as it makes the headstone in the shape of a heart. This can make a lovely tribute to your loved one as it symbolizes love.
• Granite Cross Headstones – The cross is another very popular granite design. These crosses can be made to look like the Christian cross, Celtic cross, or any other shape of cross you would like to have.

Where to Purchase a Granite Headstone

Granite headstones can be found any place where headstones are sold. This could be a funeral home, cremation provider, or headstone provider. You can also find them online from shops, manufacturers, and retailers. One thing to note is that if you are purchasing the headstone from an online retailer, pay attention to the shipping charges and make sure you are still within your budget.

Final Thoughts

With cremation services in Dallas, TX. becoming more widely accepted, many families are choosing this service with burial. It is nice to know that families who wish to have a gravesite for their loved one either for personal or religious reasons can do so and have a lovely granite headstone as a tribute and marker.

After a loved one’s cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX., many individuals and families may wish to have a memorial or tribute created. One item that has been popular for hundreds of years and is still popular today is having a memorial painting created. These works of art not only act as a beautiful tribute but also provide a keepsake that the family can pass down throughout the years.

With most people never commissioning a painting prior to this, it can be a little intimidating. Afterall, you want to make sure the painting comes out as you imagined and make sure that you are working with a reputable artist. To help you in this process, we are sharing some tips and best practices for commissioning a memorial painting.

Look at the Artist’s Past Work

Always look at the past work of the artist you are considering. Even though you may feel you have communicated the image and style you want to have created, the artist might be imagining something different, To ensure you are both on the same page, review their past work to make sure their style reflects what you are wanting.

Always Have a Contract

Many people make the mistake of not having a written contract when working with an artist. This can be a big mistake should things go wrong later down the line. Always make sure to iron out the details from the timeline, approval process, and how and when the payment will be made and have those details written out on paper. Not only will this help protect you and the artist, but it will also let both parties know what is expected and when.

Be as Descriptive as Possible

Providing the artist as many details as you can about the image you want created will help ensure you are happy with the results. You can do this by verbally expressing details as well as providing multiple images of your loved one for the artist to use reference.

Know Ahead of Time Where the Painting Will be Hung

Make sure you have a clear idea on where the painting will be hung. This is because you will need to give the artist the size of painting you will want. Although the exact dimensions may not be the exact same, you will have an overall idea. You don’t want to have the painting commissioned only to realize it’s too large to be hung where you intended.

Make Any Special Wishes Known

Other than the style, do you have any other specifications in mind such as a certain color palette you want used? Maybe there are colors you don’t want added. If there are any details about the painting you want a specific way, make sure you make this known to the artist before they begin.

Final Thoughts

Commissioning a memorial painting may seem intimidating if you have not worked with an artist before. However, if you follow these tips, you can ensure you will have a final product you will love.

If you would like more information about memorial paintings or services from cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. give us a call or some by anytime as we are always here and available to you.