You can still have a ceremony
Cremation is a way of caring for the body after death. A funeral can take place before it, or a memorial can be held afterwards. Direct cremation does not include a viewing or formal service beforehand; it does not prevent a family from gathering separately.
Read more: FTC · Types of funerals
What happens afterwards?
Think about where the cremated remains will be kept or placed, and whether your family wants somewhere to visit. Possibilities may include an urn, burial, a columbarium niche, or scattering where permitted. A columbarium is a structure with spaces for urns. Check the rules for a chosen place and any faith considerations before committing.
Read more: FTC · Buying a cemetery site
Questions can make an unfamiliar process clearer
Ask the provider to explain identification, timing, how the remains are returned, and whether a private goodbye or family presence can be arranged. Ask for an itemized total that includes the cremation, container, transport, and any ceremony you choose.
Read more: FTC · Funeral costs and pricing checklist
Questions to talk through
You don’t need answers to all of these. Keep any that might help your family.
- Would we want to gather before cremation, afterwards, or both?
- Do we want a lasting place to visit?
- Are there personal or faith wishes we should discuss before deciding?
Kept on this browser only, until you choose to bring them into the planning prototype.
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