Making plans for what will happen to your body after your death may seem morbid, but it's actually very practical. Deciding on your funeral plans in advance can save your loved ones a lot of stress during a difficult time in their lives.
Cremation is a service that's growing in popularity. It's more inexpensive than a traditional burial, and it can be more environmentally friendly. However, if you decide on cremation, you'll have to choose between direct or traditional cremation. Here are a few questions you can ask yourself:
1. Is a traditional funeral service important to you?
The difference between direct and traditional cremation is the funeral service. With direct cremation, your body will be sent straight to the funeral home where it will be cremated. Your ashes will be released to your loved one without a funeral service. With a traditional cremation, you can choose to have a funeral service either before or after cremation. If you choose to do it before, you can opt for an open casket funeral with a viewing ceremony; some people prefer this because they feel it gives family and friends closure.
2. Is cost a big concern?
A direct cremation is a more economical choice because you only need to pay for the cost of cremation. According to Funeral Wise, direct cremation can save you over $3,000. If you choose traditional cremation, you'll also need to pay for the cost of the funeral service. If you choose an open casket ceremony, you'll also need to pay for embalming costs and the cost of a casket. If money is a concern, you may want to choose direct cremation.
3. Do you want to be buried?
If your body is cremated, you can still be buried. Some people choose to have their ashes buried in a casket. Others have their ashes buried in an urn, which is cheaper than a traditional burial and requires a smaller plot of land. If you plan to be buried, you might prefer a traditional cremation with a viewing ceremony. A viewing ceremony will allow your loved ones to say goodbye to you one final time, and it will give them a chance to see the casket you've picked out.
When you've decided on the type of cremation you feel is right for you, contact your local funeral home and ask about their cremation service packages. By purchasing a package in advance, you can ease the emotional and financial burden on your loved ones in the future. Having your end of life plans settled can be a great weight off your shoulders.
