There has been a rise in cremation services over traditional casket burials for a couple of years. Cremation is cost-effective and, moreover, gives the family enough time to prepare for the funeral and memorial service. It is also an alternative to burial and is very helpful in today’s world, where the available free land is rapidly decreasing. According to the predictions by the National Funeral Directors Association, nearly 50 percent of the citizens will opt for cremation in the next 20 years.

One of the most widely used methods of saying goodbye to a deceased loved one is cremation. Research suggests that those who opted for cremation found it the best way to remember their loved ones. Many used the ashes in various creative ways.

If you are unaware of a cremation service, its process and costs, read on to find more.

Cremation services

There are four main types of cremation services that one can opt for.

Direct cremation
Direct cremation is a basic and low-cost cremation burial option with an easy-to-follow process. The cremation company, once contacted, will take care of the entire process. A direct cremation ceremony does not require any witnesses and additional guests, giving the immediate family members the space to have an intimate funeral.
This type of cremation generally costs anywhere between $2000 and $5000, although several companies offer low-cost cremations. Although this is a significant factor to consider, the main advantage of selecting a direct cremation is the ease of the process. Opting for this type, one can focus on the more crucial aspects of life during loss and mourning.

Traditional funeral followed by cremation

If you’re not aware, a conventional funeral service involves making the deceased available for display before the cremation so that family and friends can pay their last respects. Within three days after the decedent’s passing, the service will take place mostly at a church, chapel, or another place of worship.

The body will be taken to a crematory, where the process will start after the customary funeral service is over. The family is then given the cremated remains (ashes).

While a traditional funeral ceremony can be a great option, the high costs varying from $7000 to $12,000, the stress, and the need to prepare the process are frequently major deterrents. Hence, direct cremation is the way to go if you are looking for affordable cremation services.

Cremation followed by a memorial service
In essence, a memorial ceremony is a funeral service held without the presence of the departed. This service takes place after the cremation process is completed and hence occurs a few weeks or even months after the death of the person.

Any place meaningful to the deceased and/or their loved ones may be used for holding the services. If you choose this service, you can opt for a cremation package that includes everything. The cost can be anywhere between $6000 and $10000, depending on the package chosen.

Casting ceremony
When individuals first consider scattering ashes, the idea of throwing cremation ashes into the air is frequently what comes to mind. Casting ceremonies are used to scatter ashes in this manner. The liberation of letting go of their loved one’s spirit is the primary symbolism of this type of cremation. Many people pick a location that is meaningful to their loved ones, like the seaside or a natural reserve. Inform your funeral director once you’ve made your choice of location. You will need to obtain permission to scatter the remains if it is on private property.

Other funeral ceremonies
Military funeral
A military funeral is a memorial or burial ceremony conducted by a nation’s military in honor of a fallen combatant, veteran, or other notable military leaders or heads of state.

Military units are obligated by law to present the main components of a funeral honors ceremony with a uniformed detail of no less than two people. The playing of Taps and the folding and presenting of the American flag fall under this category. The flag will be presented by a veteran’s service official in uniform.

Planning a cremation service for your loved one can be overwhelming. In such times, cremation services are reliable as they provide and help through the whole funeral process. You can search for cremation services nearby and avail of their help in such a difficult time. These cremation services & costs depend on the packages.

At the end of the day, your loved ones must receive the respect they deserve, and hence you should never neglect the planning of the service. The type of service you choose will, however, depend on your budget and choice, whether it be a memorial service or a direct cremation.