Category: Cremation

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.

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.