An urn purchase is one of the many questions to have answered when a family chooses cremation for their loved one. The immediate answer to the question as to if an urn must be purchased, is no. In lieu of an urn purchase, the ashes, or cremated remains, are returned in a plastic urn, albeit not very attractive, it’s very suitable for most all types of final disposition of ashes. When burying or scattering ashes, a more expensive, ornate urn is certainly not necessary. If ashes will be on display at home, or in front of a chapel of guests at a memorial service, the thought of a little fancier urn choice might be best for you. Urn prices generally run from one end of the scale to the other, based on the fact that they are available in an array of colors, shapes, and sizes. On-line urn suppliers are usually a bit more affordable.
That said, another thing to keep in mind should be the idea of whether or not to have some sort of memorial service. Memorial services may be held with or without the cremated remains present, in cases where the family wishes the service within about a two-week time frame following their loved one’s death, as it may take that long to have the ashes returned; and communicating with out of town family members and guests might deem a short delay. Additionally, there is no legal requirement to have expensive funeral home staff to assist with planning. In most cases, families decide to contact their own minister or hospice chaplain to help with coordination of a memorial service at the cost of a simple honorarium. Another advantage is there’s no specific time frame they must be mindful of as with the planning of traditional burial arrangements, therefore eliminating the chaos from the hectic working lifestyles of today’s mobile families.
The venue for such service is another consideration. Churches, restaurants, parks, family residences, or some special place, are most common areas for the gathering. Most often, the cost is reasonable, and places such as these may offer a more meaningful setting for the grieving family, all while skipping the hassle of confirming dates and times of available use with busy church or funeral home staff.
The information above is important, and will assist those in planning a fitting tribute for their loved one. The peace of mind the family receives as they conveniently and effortlessly plan a memorial service to best fit their unique circumstances will be worth more than words could ever say, and develop cherished memories that last a lifetime.
