Scattering Ashes: How to Plan a Meaningful Ceremony
By Rev. Nancy Niero
Cremation is an alternative to burial in which the body is burned to ash. Taking place in a specialized crematorium, this is a less expensive option for final disposition.
Cremated remains (cremains) are typically stored in an urn within a loved one's home, but this is only one of the options you can choose. Today, you have a lot of freedom to choose any alternative when it comes to your cremains. Some of the more popular options are tree burials, scattering ceremonies, or creating a memorial diamond. Some families opt for something a little less traditional, like getting a tattoo with a loved one's ashes, creating a vinyl, or even blasting them into space.
By Rev. Nancy Niero
An urn is a vessel used to hold cremated remains (cremains). Though most people are familiar with traditional urns, they actually come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. From eco-friendly urns that grow into trees to keepsake urns that only hold a small bit of ashes, this is a highly personal decision for families. Ultimately, the urn is yet another way to express your legacy and your impact.
By Joe Oliveto, BA in English
This burial alternative involves the disposition of the dead through burning. The body is reduced to essential elements (ash and bone fragments) through intense heat and evaporation. Taking place in a specially designed furnace called a cremation chamber, this is an affordable, more sustainable option for disposition. Recently, cremation became more popular than burial in the United States, and this popularity is only expected to grow.
By Jasmine Tanguay, BA, MS
‘Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust’: Definition, Origin & Use Today
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
How Does Turning Pet Ashes Into Diamonds Work?
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies
What Can You Do With Pet Ashes After Cremation? 10 Simple Ideas
By Kate Wight, BA in English
15 Beautiful Urn Types to Honor Mom
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
20 Types of Urns for an Infant, Toddler or Child’s Ashes
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies
How to Properly Scatter Ashes at the Beach: 8 Steps
By Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing
20 Types of Cremation Urns for Your Dad’s Ashes
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
How to Properly Ship Cremated Remains With USPS: Step-By-Step
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies
What Happens to Ashes After They’re Buried Underground?
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies
The Best Burial & Cremation Alternatives: Companies, Products + Reviews
By Jasmine Tanguay, BA, MS
What’s a Cinerary Urn & Where Were They Used?
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies
20+ Unique Urn Ideas for a Non-Traditional Loved One
By Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing
What Size Urn Will You Need for Your Dog?
By Kate Wight, BA in English
15 Popular Types of Celtic Cremation Urns for Ashes
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
28 Unique Memorial Lockets for Cremation Ashes
By Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing
12 Popular Cremation Monument & Headstone Types Explained
By Belinda McLeod, BA in Secondary Education
What’s a TSA-Approved Urn? 5 Urn Types That’ll Work
By Joe Oliveto, BA in English
12 Popular Types of Urns for Large or Small Dogs
By Joe Oliveto, BA in English
15 Popular Types of Metal Cremation Urns for Ashes
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies
14 Types of Viking-Style Urns for Ashes
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies
10 Places You Can Get Free Cremation Urns
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
12 Beautiful Urn Rings for a Loved One's Ashes
By Belinda McLeod, BA in Secondary Education
16 Types of Small Keepsake Urns for Ashes
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies
27 Best Types of Wooden Urns for a Loved One’s Ashes
By Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing
What Size Urn Do You Need for a Loved One’s Ashes?
By Sherrie Johnson, BA in Liberal Studies