Category: Blog

Grieving is hard. It can fill us with extreme feelings of loss, sadness, and even fear and confusion. Although this grieving is normal and part of the overall process of healing, it can be a tough thing to get through. Self-care is extremely important at this time to ensure we grieve- and get through this grief- in the healthiest way possible. If you are grieving after your loved one’s cremation services in Irving, TX. here are some tips that we hope will help.

Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself

First and foremost, be kind to yourself during this time. If you are feeling down and depressed, allow yourself to acknowledge those feelings and know that it’s okay. Don’t get down on yourself if you haven’t kept up with the laundry as much as you think you should have, or if you have errands that still need to be completed. Give yourself the freedom to mourn and make sure to talk to yourself in a kind way.

Go for a Walk

Put your shoes on, get outside, and go for a walk. Walking is a wonderful, low impact exercise that gets your blood pumping, your muscles moving, and helps elevate your mood. You can walk around your neighborhood or go to a local park. Even better if you can find a nature trail and hike for a bit as being surrounded by nature provides even more benefits.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep every night is crucial for our overall health and well-being. If you are having trouble falling asleep, try and stay away from sleep aids as they can become habit-forming. Instead, create a cozy bedtime routine.

This could start with a nice warm cup of chamomile tea, or a warm bath, followed by some quiet time reading a book, stretching, or writing in a journal. Doing the same thing each night will help your brain know that it’s time to start slowing down and begin getting ready for sleep.

Let the Light In

One of the simplest things you can do to instantly boost your mood is to let the sunlight in. If you have been keeping your blinds or curtains shut, open them up and let the sun fill the room. If you can get outside and sit in the sunshine for a little while, that is even better. Just make sure to wear sunscreen.

Let Yourself Find Laughter and Joy

Don’t feel guilty if you laugh or find joy in something. Know that it is okay to experience these feelings and that doesn’t mean you are any less sad or miss your loved one any less. Being able to still find happiness and joy in life is a huge part in the healing process and it’s what your loved one would want for you.

We know how difficult this time can be for you after your loved one’s cremation services in Irving, TX. If you need further help or would like resources for grief support, please reach out to us anytime.

After your loved one’s cremation services in Dallas, TX., creating a way to honor their memory can not only pay tribute to their life, but can help you in the healing process. There are several ways to this, both big and small. We are going to cover some of our favorites and hope they help inspire you to create a tribute for your loved one.

1. Planting a Tree or Garden

Planting a tree, flowers, or a small garden can be a beautiful and lasting way to honor your loved one’s memory. You could plant this at your home, another family members; home or check with local laws and regulations about planting something at a city park.

Not only will the actual planting be therapeutic, but watching the plants grow and tending to them on a regular basis can make you feel closer to your loved one.

2. Make a Donation / Volunteer

If you loved one had a charity or cause they were passionate about, there is no better way to honor them than to keep that passion alive. Contact the charity or cause they were involved with and ask how you can help. This is something you could do just once or make it a regular occurrence by doing something each month.

3. Finish Something They Started

When we pass away, we often leave things unfinished. What better way to honor your loved one than to finish something they had been working on. Maybe they were painting a room in the house, putting up shelves, or even working on a book. Whatever it is, big or small, why not finish it? If you cannot complete it yourself, you could ask other family members to assist you or hire professional help if need be. Seeing the project completed can bring you great comfort.

4. Make a Memorial Scrapbook

Creating a scrapbook can be a wonderful way to help yourself with the healing process and create a wonderful memorial keepsake. Gather photos of your loved one throughout their life as well as anything else you could add such as notes, ribbons, etc.

You could create the scrapbook so that it follows a timeline that starts at their childhood, or you could have it just showing major life events. You can even go to your local craft store and find fun supplies such as pretty scrapbook paper, stamps, stickers, and other embellishments.

5. Compose a Song

Music is powerful. It can bring on emotions and intensify the ones we are already feeling. Creating a song for your loved one is a truly meaningful tribute. If you do not have the skills to do this, you can find professionals with a simple online search. You can work with them directly in deciding the genre of the song as well as the words and overall feel of the tune.

We know keeping your loved one’s memory alive after their cremation services in Dallas, TX is important. If you need any further help or resources don’t hesitate to contact us anytime. We are happy to help you in anyway we can.

If you are preplanning you own cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX., there will be many decisions you need to make; one of the most important being which cremation provider to choose. While there may be many to choose from, they are not all equal. Making sure you choose a trustworthy provider that will still be in business when you need them is crucial. While this can be a difficult decision, avoiding these mistakes can help ensure you make the right choice.

1. Not Touring the Facility

With everything being so accessible online these days, we tend to do a lot of business this way. While this can be convenient and a great way to get the ball rolling with your preplanning, you should, at some point, ask to tour the facility you are considering.

This will do a couple of things. First, if the provider is hesitant about you visiting or tries to change your mind about the visit, find another provider. Any reputable cremation provider will be more than happy to have you visit and show you around.

Secondly, a tour of the facility can show you how clean and organized the provider is. It can also provide you a chance to interact with some of the staff and see if they are professional and if you feel comfortable with them.

2. Not Understanding What is Included

Many times, people begin to preplan their arrangements and find a package that they believe will meet their needs. However, they may not truly understand what the cremation package includes- or doesn’t include.

When you are meeting with the cremation provider and talking about the various packages and options, make sure you understand what all is involved. Don’t be afraid to ask more questions if you are unsure about something. A trustworthy provider will have no issues with you asking as many questions as you need to feel comfortable.

3. Not Doing Any Research

To help ensure you are choosing an honest provider, take some time and do a little research on them. One way to do this is by looking at their past reviews. You can normally find these on their website or social media channels. If you cannot find any, ask the provider directly as they should be more than happy to share these with you.

You can also search the provider online and see if any complaints or such come up in the search results. A check with the local business agencies can also tell you if they are in good standing. Doing a little work to look into their background and making sure they are a reputable provider can save you a lot of headaches in the future.

We know choosing a cremation provider is a difficult choice. If you would like to talk more about your cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX., we are happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. We are available whenever you need us, so please don’t hesitate to call or come by anytime.

After your loved one’s cremation services in Irving, TX., there are several options for how to keep their remains. You may want to purchase a decorative urn and keep it in a special place in your home. Or you may choose to scatter the remains with an ash scattering ceremony. Even still, if you would like to always keep them close to you, you may decide to purchase a piece of cremation jewelry. If you are not familiar with this option, don’t worry, many people aren’t. We are going to explain this option a little more.

What is Cremation Jewelry?

Cremation jewelry is a very special way to keep your loved one close to you. This unique jewelry looks like any other piece of adornment but allows you to house a small portion of your loved one’s remains in the piece.

These pieces can be found as necklaces, bracelets, and rings. Each piece typically has a chamber or “pocket” that opens to reveal a space to add the ashes.

Probably the most popular piece is the cremation necklace with a pendant. This pendant is typically a heart, cross, or other comforting or religious shape and is the area the remains are filled into. These necklaces are nice because the pendant is close to your heart.

Can You Only Add Ashes?

While most people use these pieces to hold a portion of their loved one’s ashes, other small tokens of remembrance could be added instead. These items could be a lock of your loved one’s hair, dried flowers from their service or any other small item.

How Do You Get the Ashes Inside the Piece?

When you receive your piece of jewelry, you will typically also receive a small funnel, pin, and screwdriver. The interior compartment that holds the ashes will be accessed by unscrewing a small screw.

Using the funnel, you will add a portion of your loved one’s remains into the compartment. You may need to use the pin to help the remains go in evenly. After the compartment has been filled, you simply secure the screw back in until it is flush with the piece.

Unique Benefits with Cremation Jewelry

Choosing cremation jewelry has some unique benefits that many people are drawn to. The first one is, as mentioned before, it is a wonderful way to always have your loved one close to you. This can be extremely comforting as you are going through this very difficult time.

Another reason people like this option is since only a small portion of the remains are used, many family members can purchase and wear a piece. Some families choose to get matching pieces while others choose to get individual styles. In any case it is a nice option if several family members wish to share the remains rather than them staying in one home.

After your loved one’s direct cremation services in Irving, TX., there are several ways to hold on to their remains. If you would like a way to feel close to them and always have them with you, cremation jewelry is a perfect option.

When a family chooses a direct cremation, the remains of the deceased are returned to the family in a temporary urn. Some families choose to purchase a more permanent urn and keep these remains in a family member’s home so their loved one can always be close to them. However, some families may choose to scatter the remains. If you are interested in spreading your loved one’s ashes after their cremation services in Dallas, TX., keep reading as we explore five ways to do so.

Casting Ceremony

This type of event to release the ashes is typically the most common and is what most people imagine when they think of an ash scattering ceremony. In this event, the remains of the deceased are released and tossed into the air. This can either be done by one person, or several depending on how the family would like it to be performed.

Raking Ceremony

Another option is a raking ceremony. In this type of event, the remains are dispersed across an area of soil in a garden or other outside area. The remains are then raked into the soil becoming one with the earth again.

You might find that one person rakes all of the remains or everyone may take turns and share a found memory or story when they are at the rake. This ceremony can be performed on public lands that allow it or in scattering gardens that are created specifically for this service.

Trenching Ceremony

A variation of the raking ceremony is a trenching ceremony. With this event, the remains are not raked into the earth but buried. A trench or hole is dug, and the ashes are scattered inside. The family then fills in and covers the hole.

This is a nice option to perform alongside a flower bed or in a garden. You could also plant a new tree or flowers and have them serve as a tribute to your loved one for years to come.

Water Ceremony

If your loved one adored the water, you may decide on a water ceremony. These can be done in two ways. One is like the casting ceremony where the remains are tossed into the air over the water. The second way is to purchase a water-soluble urn for the remains to be placed in. This urn will be environmentally safe to release into the water and stay afloat for a little while before dissolving.

Guests may also add flowers or wreaths into the water but must ensure that all items added decompose easily and completely and will not be environmentally harmful to any of the water life.

Sky Ceremony

This is definitely the ceremony that makes the biggest statement. With this ceremony, your loved one’s ashes are taken up into the sky and released into the air. You can find companies that do this with a plane, helicopter, glider, or even a hot air balloon.

One downside is that space for passengers is often very limited (if allowed at all). So, if being with the remains as they are released is important to you, or you have many people who would like to attend, you might be better off choosing another option.

You can see that there are several ways to release your loved one’s remains after their cremation services in Dallas, TX. And with each one of these ceremonies, you can choose to make it as personalized for your loved one as you wish to create a truly special and meaningful tribute.

If you are preplanning your direct cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX., that is fantastic. While most people agree that preplanning is important, very few actually follow through and make the arrangements. By taking the initiative and completing this process, you are already ahead of the pack. However, without the proper guidance, you might be susceptible to making some big mistakes. We are going to address some of the most common mistakes so you can be sure to avoid them.

1. Not Letting Others Know

It’s great to preplan and make all of your final arrangements but failing to let others know these plans will make them pretty much void. You may think that by having everything written down and kept with your other important papers may be enough, but most times arrangements will be made before any of your papers are sorted through.

If nobody is aware that you made any plans, they will have to make arrangements based on their own judgement and preferences and this may not coincide with what you wanted. To ensure that your final wishes are carried out, let your loved ones know what your wished are, what services you have already preplanned, and what providers they have been preplanned with.

2. Not Setting a Budget

While cremation in general is less expensive than burials, and direct cremation is the least expensive option of all, you shouldn’t have to have an extremely large budget. Because of this, you may feel that there is no need to set one. However, it is always a good idea to have a set budget before you shop for this or any other service.

Even though you may think you have one price in mind and will be able to stick with it, there may be more options you end up selecting and before you know it, you have spent way more money than you intended to. Make sure you set a reasonable budget and stick with it.

3. Not Thinking About Others

True, these direct cremation services are for you, but they are also for the ones who will be left to mourn your passing. It may not be important to you to have any type of service after your cremation, but what about your loved ones? They may really appreciate having a small service and being able to mourn together.

When deicing your last wishes, of course, think about yourself and what you would like to have happen, but also keep in mind those who love you and what they might need.

4. Not Considering All Your Options

You may think that after your direct cremation, you would like your ashes to be released at a special place that holds meaning to you such as a national park you always camped in. However, with so many options these days, what else might you include? Maybe you would like your ashes to be buried in a biodegradable urn and planted with a tree or some flowers. Perhaps you would like to have a butterfly or dove release. Take some time and explore all of your options before settling on your final choice.

When you are ready to preplan your cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX., we are here to help make this process easy and guide you from making these mistakes.

If you are talking with providers of cremation services in Irving, TX. about direct cremation, you may be wanting to know if you can have a viewing or visitation with this type of cremation. While there is not an opportunity to have a service before the direct cremation, there are several services and events you can hold after. Some of these include holding a memorial service, celebration of life event, or an ash scattering ceremony.

If you are not sure about what type of event you would like to hold for your loved one after their direct cremation, let’s look at each on a little closer to help you decide.

Memorial Service

A memorial service is much like a more traditional funeral service in that they are solemn, structured events. They can be religious and include readings of scriptures or prayers, or they can be more secular in nature. These events also mimic funeral services in that they tend to be quiet, reserved, somber events.

These services can be held at a church or other event space or even someone’s home. They are led by a master of ceremonies and allow time for eulogies, songs, and other traditional service elements.

Celebration of Life Event

If you would like to host an event that is less structured and livelier, then you would want to opt for a celebration of life event. These events are more like a party and less like a funeral service. There is typically no structure or predetermined outline of events. Instead, this is a time for family and friends to gather with one another and honor the life of the deceased rather than mourn their passing.

These events are focused more on being happy and joyful and remembering the deceased and all the good times. Friends and family can share stories and found memories of the loved one and pay tribute to their life on earth.

Ash Scattering Ceremony

An ash scattering ceremony, also called casting ceremonies, take place where the remains will be scattered and are open to be held in anyway the family would like. These ceremonies can be religious or secular in nature and can be quieter and more reserved, or lively and loud. There is truly no “right way” to hold this service.

The way the ashes are scattered can also be done in any manner the family wishes. For example, all the remains could be dispersed by one person such as the deceased’s spouse or someone who was closest to them. Another example that some families may choose is to have a symbolic toast and divide the ashes up into glasses. Each guest gets a glass and after the toast is said, everyone releases the ashes at one time.

Final Thoughts

You can see that while there is no time to hold services before a direct cremation, families have ample opportunities to hold a variety of services after. One advantage of this is that there is no rush to plan the event. Since the body has been taken care of, families have time to slow down, decompress and really plan a perfect event.

If you were worried that you would not be able to hold an event with cremation services in Irving, TX., you can see that there is a myriad of options available.

Each year more people are opting to “go green” and are paying more attention to environmental issues. This may be one of the reasons direct cremations are on the rise. Traditionally, burials have been the more common way to lay loved ones to rest, but each year cremations are gaining popularity. If you or your family member wants to make less of an impact on the earth, or keep your body in a more natural state, keep reading to see how direct cremation services in Dallas, TX. can be more natural and eco-friendly.

Cremation Leaves More Green Space

With traditional burials, caskets and burial vaults are used in each burial plot. These burial plots take up space and cemeteries are running out of room and having to use more green space for new plots.

Cremation eliminates the need for developing more green space into cemeteries. Scattering the ashes or keeping them in an urn dramatically cuts down on the environmental impact.

Cremation Doesn’t Require a Casket

The production of caskets and headstones can take a toll on the earth’s natural materials like wood and stone. With cremation, these items are not needed which results in a reduction of their overall use.

Cremation Allows You to Return to Nature

If you choose to have your ashes scattered, it can be a lovely way to return to nature. Whether you decide to have them scattered in the ocean or national park, returning to earth this way is a draw to many people. Also, with most public lands allowing this event with the proper permit, your choices of location are abundant.

Your Remains Stay Natural

With direct cremation, there is no preparing of the body for a viewing or funeral service. This means your body is not pumped full of embalming fluid and other processes to keep you preserved. Your body can remain in a natural state and return to nature in that state.

You Have Options for Biodegradable Urns

If you want to truly be eco-friendly, there are options for biodegradable urns. These urns are designed to break down naturally without leaving a carbon footprint. They come in several varieties of styles and can be found to break down in a few minutes to a few years and everything in between.

Many people choose to use these urns in addition when planting a tree or flowers. This makes a lovely tribute and a way to honor the life of the deceased.

Final Thoughts

If making less of an impact on the environment or wanting to return to nature in a natural state is important to you, direct cremation is a perfect choice. With no chemicals being pumped in your body to preserve it, no need for a casket or headstone, and ways to incorporate your ashes with nature and the earth, you can see why cremation is becoming a more popular choice.

Whether you are preplanning your own arrangements or need immediate cremation services in Dallas, TX., for a loved one, we are here to help with your direct cremation needs.

Preplanning your final arrangements is a wonderful, loving act you can do for your family. Although this may not be an easy or comfortable thing for many to do, it will help your loved ones immensely at the time of your passing. If you are looking into direct cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX. as part of your final plans, there are some important questions you should ask.

How long have you been in business?

Providers that have been in business longer tend to have more experience overall. These providers have most likely dealt with more situations and circumstances and can help you with whatever you need. That’s not to say a provider that is newer can’t also do a wonderful job at taking care of you. Therefore, while it’s important to know how long the provider has been in business, don’t let it be the only factor in your decision.

Another reason you want to know how long they have been in business is because, while any provider could possibly go out of business at any time, if the provider has been around for many years in the past, they will most likely continue to be around in the future when you will need their services.

Do you have any reviews I can read?

Even more importantly than how long a provider has been in business; are the reviews they have received from past clients. These reviews can give you great insight on how they deal with the families, handle the deceased, and how their service is in general.

You can mostly find reviews on provider’s websites and/or social media channels. If you cannot find any, ask the provider directly. They should not hesitate or avoid in providing them. If they try and doge the request or direct your attention to something else, this may be a pretty clear sign to avoid this provider.

What is (and is not) included in the package?

Many providers offer packages that include various services and items. When you settle on a package, make sure you completely understand everything that package includes. Just as important, make sue you have a clear understanding of what is not included. If something that is important to you or your family is not included, ask if you can add that on. You want to make sure your last wishes are being taken care of as well as your family’s needs at that time.

Can I prepay?

While preplanning is great and can make a big difference in helping your family ay the time of your passing, if you can prepay for the arrangements, that’s even better. First, it can really take the burden off of your family knowing the financial aspect is taken care of. Secondly, some providers that allow you to prepay will also lock in today’s prices. This means that while inflation may increase the cost of everything in the future, you will be paying today’s price which is typically lower.

If you are ready to plan your cremation services in Farmers Branch, TX., and still have questions, we are happy to help provide more information and address any concerns you may have.

While traditional burials will always be a popular option, more and more people each year are opting for direct cremation for themselves or a loved one. Even though this option is rising in popularity, many people still are still unfamiliar with it and may have questions. If you are considering direct cremation services in Irving, TX. here are some of the most commonly asked questions to help you learn more about this option.

1. Can I have a service if I choose direct cremation?

With direct cremation being such a simple and quick process, there is typically not time before the cremation to hold services. However, afterwards there is plenty of time and plenty of ways to hold a service of your choice. Many families choose to hold an ash scattering ceremony, memorial service, or a celebration of life event.

One advantage of holding a ceremony like this after a direct cremation is that there is plenty of time to plan and arrange everything without being rushed. This gives the family more options for dates of holding an event as well as friends and family who live far away ample time to travel and attend the event.

2. What is the body cremated in?

With a cremation, the body will be placed in a cremation container. These are typically boxes comprised of a very sturdy cardboard and large enough for most average sized bodies. This container serves as a way to provide dignity to the deceased as well as help contain the body during the cremation process.

3. Do I need to purchase an urn?

While most cremation centers will return the cremated remains to the family in a temporary urn, you may want to purchase a more permanent option. While the temporary urn may be fine if you are going to scatter the ashes, it may not be suitable for long term use. If you plan on keeping the remains, it is suggested you purchase a more durable urn option. Urns come in a variety of styles and materials and can be purchased from crematories directly or online.

4. Can personal items be included in the cremation?

Some families my want personal items to be cremated alongside their loved one. While personal items such as jewelry and watches will be taken off and returned to the family, other items may be permitted to be included in the cremation. Some of these items could include special photographs, letters, stuffed animals or flowers. However, depending on the crematory and the safety of the item you wish to include, some items may not be allowed. To find out what items are okay, talk with the crematory directly.

While these aren’t the only questions you may have about direct cremations, hopefully these help give you a little more insight about this process. When you are talking to providers of cremation services in Irving, TX., feel free to ask whatever questions you still have so that you can truly understand the process and ensure you are making the right decision.