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Ground burials have been around for over thousands of years all over the world. While they still remain popular today, cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. are becoming just as common. One reason individuals and families choose this type of body disposition is because of all the options it provides on where the remains can be laid to rest.

If the family would like to keep the ashes together, they can be placed in a columbarium niche, kept in someone’s home, placed in a mausoleum or even buried. However, families also have many options when it comes to releasing the ashes. The most popular include casting, trenching, water, and sky or ariel. Today we are going to explore these ways in more depth.

1. Casting

Many families may choose to have a casting ceremony. This ceremony is much like that of a memorial service or funeral with people speaking giving eulogies, reciting poems, etc. However, at the end of the ceremony the ashes of the deceased will be cast into the air. This is what most people think of when they imagine ashes being released. This act can be very therapeutic as it can offer those who attend a visual representation of their loved one’s spirit being carried off by the wind.

2. Trenching

The second most popular ceremony is what is called a “trenching” ceremony. This ceremony takes place as it would with a casting ceremony expect the ashes are not released into the air. Instead, a hole or trench is dug into the ground prior to the ceremony, and the ashes are scattered inside.

After the remains are in the trench or hole, the family will then cover them with the dirt. The family could have one person to do this task, or take turns, shoveling a small amount of dirt on top. Some families my even allow those guests who want to, to also have a turn.

3. Water

If the deceased loved the beach, ocean, or other body of water, their family may choose to hold a water ceremony. This is where the ceremony is held and then the remains of the loved one are set out to sea. This is done by having the ashes inside a biodegradable urn and placing the urn in the water. Some biodegradable urns will dissolve almost immediately releasing the ashes while others can take a few minutes to even days before the sink and dissolve completely.

4. Sky or Aerial

While once these ceremonies were not very common, as cremation in general is growing as far as body disposition, sky ceremonies are also increasing. With this ceremony, the loved ones ashes will be released into the air from things such as helicopters, hot air balloons, planes and even hang gliders.

Final Thoughts

Even though these ceremonies are becoming more common and more popular, they still may be illegal in some places. That is why it is best to work with a director for cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. or another private company that specializes in these ceremonies. If you would like to organize one yourself, just make sure to check with local law enforcement before you perform your ceremony to ensure you are not breaking any laws and have all required permits.

A popular reason for people choosing cremation services in Irving, TX. is that they want their ashes returned back into nature. Many people may even know the exact spot they wish for this to happen. For the families of the loved one, releasing the ashes can be a very beautiful tribute as the wind carrying the ashes away signifies the deceased’s spirt being lifted into the heavens. We are going to look at how this act can help those left behind to heal.

Casting Ceremony

When ashes are released into the wind (as opposed to being buried or sent to sea), it is called “casting”. A casting ceremony is simply the ceremony that happens before the act of casting the ashes. These services can be a small, intimate affairs with just immediate family present, or could be a large event that is open to the public allowing anyone who wishes being able to attend.

These events can also be structured like that of a funeral or memorial service with eulogies being delivered, prayers or readings being recited and music selections being played or sung, or be a more simple, unorganized event where guests may take turns sharing a favorite memory about their loved one.

How Casting Ceremonies Help Us to Heal

No matter how large or small, organized or free low the casting ceremony is, these events can be very beneficial to those who attend. These ceremonies can aid in our healing by:

Assist with closure and saying goodbye- Death is never an easy thing to process. Having a visual of the ashes being released can help our brains, and our hearts, come to terms with what has happened.

Helping accept the new reality- Once we can begin to feel closure, these ceremonies can help us accept this new reality and begin to learn how to navigate through it.

Being around others who feel the same way-When you experience grief it can often time feel like you are all alone in your pain. Being around others who are also grieving the same loss as you can bring comfort in knowing you are not alone.

Provide a set time of remembrance- When you attend a casting ceremony, that is the only thing on your mind at that time. You are typically not thinking of things like work, chores, homework or errands but instead, your focus is on your loved one. This is wonderful to let your mind be consumed by their memory, talk about them with others, and remember all the good times.

Final Thoughts

If you are planning a casting ceremony it is important that you first check with the location to ensure it is legal to release ashes there. While most places do allow for this, many only do so when the proper permits have been acquired.

To learn more about casting ceremonies as well as cremation services in Irving, TX, give us a call anytime as one of our cremation providers is happy to talk with you one-on-one.

While preplanning your cremation services in Dallas, TX. is a wonderful thing to do for your family, there are some additional things you should consider. These include documents you should have completed, organized and located in a place your family can access easily. Some of these documents may be used before your pass away while other will be what your family may need afterwards. In any case, it is good to have all papers on this list completed and ready to go if and when your family needs them.

Personal Documents

These are documents that your family may need for things like writing the obituary, getting the death certificate completed, and more. Of course this may not be all of the documents you need in this category as every individual is unique, but this will give you a good place to begin.

The documents you should have include:

• Last Will and Testament – This document will name those who you appoint that will inherit your assets if no beneficiary is named on an accounts.
• Marriage License / Divorce Decrees – Gather documents showing you have been married and/or divorced
• Digital Estate Plan- This document outlines how you would like your social media accounts such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. to be handled
• Letter of Instruction – This document instructs how you would like you last wishes to be carried out such as where you would like your ashes to be scattered after your cremation.

Financial Documents

If you become incapable of handling your accounts it is important to give your family permission to do so for you. Not only that, but having all of your financial papers organized and kept together will help your family immensely when the time comes. Some of the documents you should gather are:

• A Financial Power of Attorney (POA)- This document is imperative in assigning someone to handle your finances if you are unable to do so.
• 401(k)- These are any papers relating to your 401(k) and retirement accounts
• Income tax Returns- Make sure you have your past tax returns accessible for your family. Typically having the past six years is desired.
• Vehicle Titles – Make sure to gather any and all vehicle titles you may have.
• Stock Certificates – Gather any documents related to stocks you own or savings bonds
• Any Deeds – These would be deeds to things such as housing, cemetery, or land
• Loans and Payments- Documents showing any loans you have as well as payments made

Medical Documents

This last category includes any and papers that your family may need should you require hospital care. Documents to have can include:

• HIPAA Authorization – This is to allow your private health information to be released to the parties you name. This is important because without hospitals cannot release any information even to family members.
• An Advance Health Care Directive- This document is a combination of your Living Will and the naming of a Health Care Proxy
• Do Not Resuscitate Orders (DNR)- If it is your wish that doctors do not try and resuscitate you, you will need to fill out this DNR order.

By preplanning your cremation services in Dallas, TX. as well as having all of these documents organized and easily accessible to your family members, you can be assured they will be taken care after you pass.

Planning your cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. ahead of time just makes sense. Think about it. You plan other important events ahead of time. Vacations. Graduation parties. Road trips. Holiday plans. Why would you not preplan something as important as your final arrangements? Not only will it help ease the stress from your family when the time comes, you can take the time to truly decide what you would like to have happen as your last wishes. Let’s talk more about just some of these advantages to preplanning your arrangements.

1. Preplanning Allows You More Time and Choice

One great advantage of planning your arrangements now is that you don’t have to be a in rush. You can take the time to explore all of your options before settling on a final decision about things.

For example, did you know that nowadays it is possible to have your ashes shot int space, turned into a diamond, made into a painting or glass sculpture and even be made to create a living coral reef? And those are just a few of the options available.

Of course you can also choose a more traditional option such as having your ashes placed in a urn, scattering them back into nature, or having them buried. The choices are truly endless. Give yourself time now to explore all of the options.

2. Give Your Family a Break

Although it may seem morbid to some, making your final arrangements now is actually an act of love you are showing towards your family. When you pass, those who are left behind will be responsible for handling everything from your bank accounts to newspaper subscriptions.

Help ease their burden by not having them be responsible for planning your cremation services as well. Knowing that aspect has already all been arranged can greatly reduce the stress your family will be feeling at the time of your passing.

3. Your Last Wishes Will be Honored

When you preplan your arrangements now, you can arrange any last wishes that you would like to have occur. This can give you confidence and peace of mind knowing everything will be handled the way you wish.

Even if you leave your last wishes up to your family, when the time comes, even though they have the best of intentions, they may not be able to complete your last wishes for whatever reason. Don’t leave it up to chance. Preplan now so that your last wishes will be handled in the manner you want.

Final Thoughts

While making your final arrangements now can seem awkward or uncomfortable, know that by doing so, you are doing the responsible thing for your family Just make sure that after you have your plans made that you let your family know. Inform them about what provider you have contracts with, where these papers are located and who they need to contact if they have questions about anything. This will help immensely when the time comes. It doesn’t do any good to preplan all of your cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. only to forget to let anyone know.

Writing has often been used to help process grief and loss. This can be done in numerous ways including keeping a journal, creating a daily gratitude list, or even writing your loved one’s biography. While all of these are fantastic methods, today we will be exploring another therapeutic option: writing your loved one a letter after their cremation services in Irving, TX.

 

Step 1: Find a comfortable spot to sit and write without disturbances.

It can be therapeutic to write a letter to your deceased loved one. It can help you to process your grief and can be a way to express your feelings that you may not have been able to say in person. You may find it helpful to write the letter in a comfortable spot where you won’t be interrupted. You can light a candle or play calming music to create a peaceful atmosphere. Once you’re ready, start by writing down some of the things you remember about your loved one. What are some of the qualities that you admire? What are some of your favorite memories? What did they mean to you? As you write, don’t be afraid to express your feelings, whether they’re happy, sad, angry, or anything else. Just let the words flow and see where they take you. You may find the experience to be healing and cathartic.

 

Step 2: Get the supply you need.

A journal is a great way to capture your thoughts and feelings, and you may also want to include some photos or mementos that are special to you. You’ll also need a good pen that won’t bleed through the pages – try a gel or ballpoint pen in black or blue ink. And finally, make sure you have plenty of tissues handwriting can be an emotional process, and it’s important to be gentle with yourself. With these supplies, you’ll be ready to sit down and write a letter that will be cherished for years to come.

 

Step 3: Concentrate on what you want to write.

It is not easy to write a letter to your deceased loved one. You may feel it is pointless because they are no longer here, but it can be very therapeutic. The process of writing can help you to process your grief and to say goodbye healthily. It can also be a way to keep your loved one’s memory alive. To get started, concentrate on what you want to say. Write from the heart and don’t worry about grammar or punctuation. Just let the words flow. You may find it helpful to write about favorite memories, things you wish you had said, or how much you miss your loved one. Take your time and be gentle with yourself. Writing a letter to your deceased loved one can be a powerful way to heal your grief.

 

Step 4: Say goodbye to a loved one.

Saying goodbye to a deceased loved one can be difficult. The process of grief can be overwhelming, and it can be hard to find the words to express your feelings. Writing a letter to your loved one can be a helpful way to say goodbye. It can be a way to express your thoughts and emotions and to share memories of your time. It can also be a way to process your grief and begin healing. Writing a letter is not always easy, but it can be a powerful way to say goodbye to your deceased loved one.

 

Whatever feels right to you, do that. And don’t think you can write them a letter just one time. Feel free after your loved one’s cremation services in Irving, TX, to write them a letter each week, each month, or on special days like birthdays and holidays. There are no rules to this activity so feel free to make it your own and write as often as you’d like.

After your loved one’s cremation services in Dallas, TX., having a memorial service serves as a wonderful tribute as well as a way to celebrate their life. Typically, these services include things like finding an officiant or master of ceremonies to run the event, as well as creating a memorial program, deciding on memorial favors for the guests, selecting the readings and music selection for the service among a ton of other decisions.

All of this can be very dauting and overwhelming to many families. The good news is that the size and scope of the memorial service isn’t important. It does not reflect how much the deceased was loved or how much of an impact they made.

The important thing about these services is that they honor and celebrate the life lost. They also provide a way for those left behind to come to terms with the new reality and begin the healing process. Because of this, even a small, intimate event can be truly beautiful and meaningful.

Here are a few of our favorite ways to hold a memorial that is not only small, but veers away from the traditional format. Use these ideas for a way to honor your loved one or for inspiration to create a unique event of your own.

Plant a Garden

If you have the space, planting a memorial garden is a lovely activity to do with friends and family. Not only will this garden serve as a beautiful tribute to your loved one, the act of creating it with those close to you will fill you with love and comfort every time you view it.

There are no rules as to how this garden has to be created. You can either provide all of the plants and flowers, or have each guest bring something to be planted. You may wish to use flowers that hold special meaning, or that are all made up of your loved one’s favorite color.

Hold an Open Mic Night

Invite guests over for an open mic night. Guests could each take turns on the mic and either tell a favorite story or memory of the loved one, read a poem, recite or sing a song, read from a book, or recite something they wrote themselves.

Hold a Movie Night

Did your loved one have any favorite movies? Maybe they loved a certain genre of movie or adored a certain actor or actress. If you loved one was a movie buff, then hosting a movie night is a fun and unique way to honor their memory.

This can be even more special if you have the ability to host this event outside under the stars. Either way, you can create a cozy space with blankets, pillows and cushions. You can also serve popcorn or other favorite movie snacks. Everyone can get cozy, settle in, watch movies and share stories and memories of the loved one.

Final Thoughts

While most people think of a memorial event being a formal, structured service, the truth is, it can be anything you like. There are no rules when it comes to how you want to honor your loved one after their cremation services in Dallas, TX. In fact, sometimes a smaller, more unconventional event can be the perfect for you and your family.

Many people may think that the options for remains after their loved one has been cremated are to either scatter the ashes back into nature, or keep them in an urn which is placed in their home. However, there are several options for resting places for those who choose cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX.

Columbarium Niche

One option that families man not be aware of is placing the urn in a columbarium niche. A columbarium is a structure that is made up of individual spaces called “niches” and can be outside as stand-alone features or inside as part of another structure. They are typically seen in cremation gardens and cemeteries but may also be found at other memorial locations.

The columbarium niche is where the urn will be placed. The niche may have a glass front so that the urn can be seen or a metal front where the urn is hidden from view. The family may be able to have a plaque engraved and attached to the front of the niche to serve as a memorial marker.

Ground Burial

Many people may be surprised to know that even with cremation it is possible to have a ground burial. This options is wonderful as certain religious beliefs may allow cremation, but also specify that the remains should be not scattered, but kept together and buried.

A cremated burial is much like that of a casket burial. There is a burial vault that the urn is placed in to help keep the ground from shifting and a headstone or grave marker is typically allowed to be placed. This can be a great fit for those families who wish to design a headstone in honor of their loved one as well as have a designated private space to visit when they want to feel close to them.

Cremation Garden

Cremation gardens can be found as separate locations or part of a cemetery or other location. They may offer areas for releasing of ashes in a scattering garden, as well as places for ground burials, and columbarius.

Many families may choose cremation gardens because they are typically landscaped with colorful flowers, lush plants, walkways, sitting areas, as well as fountains or other water features. Also, since they offer so many options for ways to handle the remains, they appeal to a wide variety of individuals and families.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

When making the choice of where the final resting place will be for your loved one, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, did they have any religious beliefs that would dictate the way the remains are to be handled? Second, what is the best way that most of the family can agree on? While you can’t always make everyone happy, it’s important that those family members who are affected by this loss have some input. Finally, what would you loved one want? Did they have any specific wishes they made known? If so, make sure to try an honor these.

Remember, we are here to help answer any questions you may have about cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. so feel free to call or come by anytime.

After your loved one’s cremation services in Irving, TX., having the remains placed in an urn and kept inside your home can offer great comfort. However, this option has some disadvantages that may cause some families to look for another option. For example, keeping the urn in one home can make it difficult for other family members or friends to visit or be near the urn. Other families may choose another option because they would like to have a larger tribute for their loved one than just the urn itself.

Because of this many people are choosing to have their loved one’s remains placed in a columbarium To learn more about this option, and if it’s right for you and your family, keep reading.

What is a Columbarium?

Columbariums are structures that are either par of a building, memorial, or a stand-alone structure. They are typically found in cemeteries, cremation gardens, or other memorial locations.

Whether the columbarium is part of a larger structure or on its own, it is comprised on spaces that are referred to as “niches”. It is in these niches that urns are placed.

There are a few types of niches with the two most common being:

• Metal Front Niche– A metal front niche hides the urn from view as it covers the front. With metal front niches, there is typically an engraving on the face that included the deceased’s name, date of birth, date of passing, and maybe a short epitaph or passage.
• Glass Front Niche – A glass front niches allows for the contains of the niche to be seen by visitors. Because of this many families choose to also add other things in addition to the urn such as a photograph of their loved one or other personal items.

Columbarium Advantages

Columbariums provide many advantages that cause families to choose this option. Some of the most popular reasons include:

• Provide a General Location – Many families choose a columbarium niche for their loved one’s remains because it offers the family a general location that any and all guests can visit anytime they wish.
• Offer Beautiful Scenery – Most all columbariums will be found in wonderful landscaped surroundings that offer a beautiful and peaceful environment to connect with your loved one. Many also offer benches or other seating areas to rest and reflect.
• Serve as a Memorial – Columbarium niches not only house your loved ones remains, but they serve as a memorial and tribute to them. Being able to have the front of the niche engraved or adding more items into the niche can serve more of a memorial than an urn simply placed in a home.

Shelter from the Elements- If the columbarium is inside another structure, it offers visitors a way to visit their loved one while being sheltered from the elements such as rain or from the sun on a hot summer day.

Final Thoughts

While placing your loved one’s remains in your home after their cremation many be great for some, other families may enjoy the advantages that a columbarium can provide. If you would like more information about columbariums or cremation services in Irving, TX., feel free to call or come by anytime and let our caring staff answer any questions you may have.

When many people think about cremation services in Dallas, TX., they may be under the impression that it is not possible to hold a funeral service prior to the cremation. While this is true with the service known as “direct” or “simple” cremation, the truth is funerals as well as viewings are able still available to those who wish to be cremated. Let’s look at how funerals and other services work when your loved one chooses cremation.

Holding a Viewing

A viewing is an event that typically take the place the day before the funeral. It is a less formal affair than the funeral and guests tend to come and go rather than having to arrive at a certain time.

The body of the deceased is present and displayed in a casket so that those who wish may approach and say their final goodbyes. There are often refreshments offered such as cookies and punch or other light snacks.

Sine the body will be present, it will need to be prepared for the event. This can include services such as embalming, makeup and hair. This is the same whether the body will then have a ground burial or be cremated.

The casket the body is in for the viewing can be purchased, or if the family would rather, can be rented. When the family chooses rental, there is a less expensive container placed inside the casket which the body rests in. After the service, the body and the container will be taken out and the casket is relined for future use. The guests only see the main outer casket so this is a wonderful option for those who do not wish to purchase and actual casket.

Funeral Service

Holding a funeral service is the same for your loved one show chooses creation as it is for those who choose a ground burial. The body can be present in the same way it is for the viewing. The only difference with the funeral service is that afterwards, the body will be taken to the crematorium and not to the cemetery.

Funeral Reception

Many families choose to hold a funeral reception after the funeral. This can also still be done with cremation since this is after the body has been disposed. Funeral receptions are a wonderful way to come together after a difficult day, visit and support one another, and honor and pay tribute to the life lost. These receptions can be private events for family and/or close friends only or open to the public for anyone to attend.

Final Thoughts

While direct cremation does not allow time before the cremation to hold services such as funerals and viewings, these services are still available with other cremation packages. Because of this, families have great flexibility when it comes to the types of services they wish to hold for their loved one.

If you would like more information about cremation services in Dallas, TX., and the advantages it may offer your family, give us a call anytime and we are always here to help.

Are you looking for a unique way to commemorate the life of your loved one after their cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX? Maybe a way that uses the remains in a creative way to create something new? If so, then keep reading as we cover some of the most unusual ways people are doing just that.

Tattoos Made with Cremation Ashes

For some people, getting a tattoo is more than just a fashion statement. It can be a way to memorialize a loved one or commemorate a significant event. And now, thanks to a new trend, it can also be a way to keep a loved one’s ashes with you always. That’s right: cremation ashes can now be used to create tattoos. The process is surprisingly simple. First, the ashes are mixed with water to create ink. Next, the ink is injected into the skin using a traditional tattoo needle. The result is a beautiful and unique tattoo that will last a lifetime. And best of all, it allows you to keep your loved one close to your heart always.

Painting with cremains

For many people, the idea of painting with cremains may seem strange or even offensive. However, there is a growing trend of using cremated remains in art, and it can actually be a very meaningful way to memorialize a loved one. The process is relatively simple: the ashes are mixed with water to create a stain, which can then be used to paint on paper or other surfaces. The result is a unique and personal work of art that can serve as a reminder of the life that was lived. And unlike traditional paintings, which can fade or be damaged over time, cremains paintings are designed to last forever. For those who are looking for a creative way to honor a lost loved one, painting with cremains may be the perfect solution.

Cremation Jewelry

Cremation jewelry is a type of jewelry that contains the cremains of a loved one. Also known as memorial jewelry, this type of jewelry allows the wearer to keep a loved one close to their heart. Cremation jewelry comes in a wide variety of styles and can be made from a variety of materials, including gold, silver, glass, and even wood. The size of the piece can also vary, from small pendants to large rings. No matter what style or material you choose, cremation jewelry is a beautiful way to keep your loved one’s memory alive.

Send Ashes to Space

For centuries, people have looked to the stars and wondered what lies beyond them. Now, with modern technology, it’s possible to send a loved one’s ashes into space. There are several companies that offer this service, and the process is relatively simple. First, the ashes are placed into a special capsule. Then, the capsule is attached to a rocket and launched into orbit. Once in space, the capsule will open and release the ashes, which will then disperse into the atmosphere. The entire process takes less than an hour, and it’s an incredibly unique way to honor a loved one. Moreover, it’s a way to ensure that their legacy will live on long after they’re gone.

We all have different opinions about what to do with our loved ones when they pass away. Some people prefer scattered ashes while others would rather have them placed in an urn or jar for eternity; however, it is important that you speak openly and honestly with other relatives before making any decisions regarding this issue as there may still be some things that involve personal preferences even though both choices might seem equally valid at first glance.

FAQ About Cremation Ashes

Are cremated ashes sanitary?

When someone dies, their body is typically either buried or cremated. Cremation involves exposing the body to extremely high temperatures until it is reduced to ashes. These ashes are then usually stored in an urn or scattered in a special location. Some people choose cremation because they believe it is a more sanitary option than burial. However, cremation actually comes with its own set of sanitary concerns. The high temperatures involved in the process can release harmful chemicals into the air, and if the ashes are not stored properly, they can attract vermin. In addition, if the ashes are scattered in a public place, there is always the risk that they will be disturbed by passersby. As a result, cremation is not necessarily the most sanitary option for the disposition of a body.

How long do cremated ashes last?

The time span for keeping cremated remains depends on how thickly they were spread around. The lighter your shades are, the quicker it will be before you have to worry about them losing their potency and undergoing natural decay in place; but this does not mean that those who preferred darker colors didn’t also experience an interesting phenomenon during testing – many reported having seen some kind of sparkle or glow returning after several weeks had passed!

What is the best way to spread cremation ashes?

This question has been one that many people have considered when thinking about how they want to spread their loved one’s ashes. A cremation is a popular form of funeral service, but it’s not the only way you can go about getting rid of your dead partner/child’s remains; there are also urn burials and scattering ceremonies available which all have different pros and cons depending on what type suits you best personally. Some families opt for private placements while others will make public displays so everyone knows where exactly their departed was laid to rest at last.