Deciding what to do with a person’s ashes is an important and personal decision. One of the benefits of choosing cremation is that there are many different things you can do with a person’s ashes. In this blog we will discuss some of the different cremation options available, along with some key things to keep in mind.
1. Scattering Ashes
Scattering a person’s ashes is a popular choice in the UK. Ashes can be scattered almost anywhere, but you should obtain the landowners permission first.
Some people choose to scatter a person’s ashes over the grave of a former loved one, for example at the grave of a spouse, parent or child. In this instance, you would need permission from the council or churchyard.
Another option is to scatter the ashes at a favourite location of the deceased. If you are releasing ashes in to the wind, consider the direction of the wind and ensure you do it away from any other people. If you are releasing a person’s ashes at sea you shouldn’t need prior permission, unless the water is privately owned.
If you want to scatter a person’s ashes abroad, most airlines will allow you to travel with ashes in your hand luggage. Make sure you check in with your airline before travelling, and check the customs regulations of the country you are travelling to.
Bear in mind that there may be a fee to scatter ashes on private land.
2. Burying Ashes
Burying a loved one’s cremated remains is a very popular choice and can be done in a cemetery, churchyard, memorial garden or green burial site. You could also bury your loved one’s ashes in your garden. This option is particularly suited to anyone who wants a dedicated place to visit.
As well as burying a loved one’s ashes direct in to the ground, you could place them in an urn for burial. Our team of funeral arrangers will be able to advice you the different options available, as well as managing any paperwork that may be required.
3. Planting a Tree Over Ashes
Planting a tree over a loved one’s ashes is a thoughtful gesture that is suited to anyone who loved nature. Many people choose a biodegradable urn containing plant nutrients, meaning that over time your loved one will become the earth that helps the tree to grow. It’s a perfect way to ensure your funeral remains as eco friendly as possible.
As well as trees, roses are a popular choice, or alternatively you could plant a favourite plant or flower of your loved one.
If you would like to plant a tree in a public place, you will need to obtain permission from the council or landowner and there may be a fee attached. Another choice is to plant the tree in your garden, although it may be wise to bury them in a plant pot should you decide to move house.
4. Keeping the Ashes Home
There are a variety of cremation options available for keeping a loved one at home. Memorial urns come in many different shapes, sizes and materials. Ceramic, porcelain, wood and metal are popular choices, as well as cloisonné urns with intricate enamel designs.
You could also choose a photo frame with space to store ashes, a teddy bear that has a hidden pouch, sculptures that look like art, or a birdbath or sun dial for housing a loved one outside.
It’s important to choose a storage option that can be fully sealed, and choose a place in your home where it won’t risk being knocked over.
5. Get Creative
You can be as creative as you want when it comes to cremation options. Some of the most creative ideas we have come across in the UK include;
- Creating a reef ball out of ashes to support marine life
- Turning a loved one in to a firework
- Scattering ashes from a spitfire plane
- Having a tattoo created with a person’s ashes
- Commissioning a painting using a person’s ashes
- Turning a loved one in to a playable vinyl record
- Turning a loved one in to jewellery or a diamond
Our team of funeral arrangers are happy to discuss all the cremation options available to you and aid you in your decision. Call us on 01525 372210 or use our contact form to get in touch.