I know that the options for cremation are confusing to some people. Particularly if you have not pre-planned or had the experience of arranging a funeral. Cremation is a popular choice for many people. However, a cremation service does not mean that the ceremony is any less important.

It is my personal belief, and a funeral is a very personal choice, which typically evolves around personal belief, that the funeral should be a direct reflection of the person you are having the funeral service for. For example, if your loved one was quiet and reserved, the service should probably be quiet and reserved. This might include a minister, or an officiant, some quiet music, a few words from one or two family members. If your loved one was a gregarious sort, you would probably want livelier music, perhaps symbols of a hobby or work. At Fairhaven, this has included a motorcycle or favorite antique car at the service, clowns for a person who was a clown, bands, choirs that the person sang in, you get the drift. For one young boy who loved knights and castles, we had a horse and knight walk down the center isle at the service. This is what he wanted. The funeral service is a ceremony for the living to remember and pay tribute to their loved one. It can be special and creative, however, better to plan what you want in advance. Your family may not know you want the clowns, a horse and carriage, a dove release or bag pipes at your service.

If you are planning a cremation for a family member, you can have a service that will reflect that person’s personality and can be a gift to all of the friends and family left behind. If you are a good planner, you may be able to do this yourself. Of course, I would recommend the help of your local funeral director. They are familiar with planning services, and can make suggestions and arrange for a location, a minister or celebrant, and music, to make the rest of what you have to do during a difficult time much easier.