How to Personalize Your Final Farewell

July 25th, 2024 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, Direct Cremation, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services

Making Your Final Wishes Unique with Cremation Services in Clearwater

When it comes to planning for the future, ensuring your final farewell reflects your unique personality and wishes is essential. Pre-planning your cremation with Florida Family Cremations offers you the opportunity to tailor every detail, giving your loved ones peace of mind during a difficult time.

Here’s a guide on how to personalize your final farewell and make it truly memorable.

Why Personalize Your Farewell?

Personalizing your farewell is about more than just leaving a lasting impression. It allows you to communicate your values, celebrate your life, and provide comfort to your family members.

By pre-planning your cremation services, you can ensure that your final wishes are respected and that the farewell is a true reflection of who you are.

Choose the Right Cremation Service

There are different types of cremation services available, and selecting the one that best suits your needs is the first step in personalizing your farewell.

• Direct Cremation: A simple and cost-effective option that involves the cremation process without a traditional funeral service. This allows for flexibility in planning a memorial at a later date and location that is meaningful to you and your family.
• Simple Cremation: Similar to direct cremation, this option provides a straightforward approach without the added complexities of a funeral service.

Choosing the right type of service sets the foundation for how you can personalize the rest of your farewell.

Pre-Planning Cremation Services

Pre-planning your cremation allows you to make decisions ahead of time, relieving your family of the burden during an already difficult period. Here are some aspects to consider when pre-planning:

• Selecting a Cremation Provider: Ensure the provider you choose is reputable and meets all your needs. Florida Family Cremations offers affordable cremation services and is a trusted cremation provider in Clearwater and St. Petersburg.
• Documenting Your Wishes: Clearly outline your preferences for your cremation process and any specific instructions for your family members to follow.
• Financial Planning: Pre-planning helps manage the financial aspects, ensuring there are no unexpected costs for your loved ones.

Personalization Ideas

1. Memorial Keepsakes: Consider creating keepsakes for your family members, such as jewelry containing a small portion of your ashes or custom urns that reflect your personality.
2. Customized Memorial Service: While Florida Family Cremations does not plan memorial services, you can pre-plan the details to be carried out by your family or a funeral service. Choose a location, theme, and activities that represent your life and passions.
3. Personal Messages: Leave letters or video messages for your loved ones, sharing your thoughts, memories, and love. This personal touch can provide immense comfort.
4. Incorporate Hobbies and Interests: Reflect your hobbies or interests in your farewell. For example, if you were an avid gardener, your family might plant a tree in your memory.
5. Special Requests: Include any unique requests you might have, such as a specific song to be played or a ritual to be performed.

Legal Considerations

Pre-planning involves ensuring all legal documents are in order. This includes:

• Death Certificates: Understanding how to obtain and process death certificates.
• Funeral Arrangements: Clarifying your wishes in your will and communicating them to your family members.
• State Regulations: Being aware of state regulations regarding cremations in Clearwater and the surrounding areas.

Contact Florida Family Cremations to Pre-Plan Cremation

Pre-planning your cremation is a thoughtful and considerate step, ensuring your final farewell is just as you envision. Florida Family Cremations is here to guide you through the process, offering compassionate and professional cremation services.

Contact Florida Family Cremations today to start pre-planning your cremation services in Clearwater.

Ensure your final farewell is a true reflection of your life and provides comfort to your loved ones during a difficult time.

Creative Ideas for Turning Cremains into Cremation Jewelry

May 14th, 2024 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, Direct Cremation, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services, Urns

How to honor your loved one with cremation jewelry.

Losing a loved one is an emotional journey that changes us profoundly. However, finding unique ways to memorialize those we’ve lost can provide a comforting sense of closeness and continuity. Cremation jewelry, an increasingly popular choice among those opting for cremation services, offers a personal and intimate way to keep your loved one close to your heart.

This guide explores creative ideas for turning cremains into beautiful jewelry pieces, ensuring that your cherished memories are always part of your day-to-day life.

Understanding Cremation Jewelry

Cremation jewelry refers to wearable items designed to hold a small amount of ash from cremated remains. These items allow you to keep your loved one’s memory alive in a subtle yet meaningful way. The concept has grown in popularity with the rise of direct cremation and simple cremation options, which often prompt families to seek non-traditional urns and memorials.

Types of Cremation Jewelry

1. Necklaces for Ashes: One of the most popular forms of cremation jewelry, necklaces can range from simple designs in stainless steel to elaborate sterling silver or gold pieces. Cremation necklaces often come with a secure compartment to store the ashes, ensuring that they remain safe and close to your heart.
2. Cremation Bracelets and Rings: For those who prefer something other than necklaces, bracelets and rings offer an alternative that still maintains physical closeness. These pieces can be designed with small compartments or charms that hold a small amount of cremated remains.
3. Cremation Earrings: A less common but equally poignant option, earrings can carry a discreet amount of ashes, symbolizing your loved one’s presence in your daily interactions and conversations.

Materials Used in Cremation Jewelry

• Stainless Steel: Durable and resistant to tarnish, stainless steel is an excellent choice for everyday wear. It’s also more affordable, making it accessible for many families.
• Sterling Silver: Known for its beauty and luster, sterling silver adds a touch of elegance to cremation jewelry pieces, making them not only a memorial item but also a stylish accessory.
• Precious Metals: For those looking for a luxurious option, gold, platinum, and other precious metals offer durability and a lasting tribute to your loved one.

Personalization Options

To make cremation jewelry even more special, consider these personalization ideas:

• Engravings: Adding a date, name, or personal message can make each piece genuinely unique and directly connected to the loved one it commemorates.
• Custom Designs: Some jewelers offer custom designs that can incorporate elements that were significant to your loved one, such as symbols, favorite flowers, or even a small photograph encased alongside the cremains.
• Gemstone Inclusions: Incorporating birthstones or favorite gemstones can add color and personal significance to the jewelry, enhancing its emotional value.

Selecting the Right Cremation Jewelry

Choosing the right piece of cremation jewelry involves several considerations:

• Capacity: Ensure the item you select can appropriately hold a small amount of ash. Most pieces are designed with security in mind, but double-checking the mechanism for containing the ashes is crucial.
• Comfort: Since the idea is to wear these items frequently, if not daily, choosing a piece that feels comfortable and suits your lifestyle is essential.
• Aesthetic: The jewelry should not only serve as a memorial but also match your personal style. It’s something you’ll want to wear and cherish.

Filling and Caring for Cremation Jewelry

• Filling Kit: Most cremation jewelry comes with a filling kit and instructions to help you safely transfer the ashes into the jewelry. It’s a delicate process but can be a profound moment of connection with your loved one.
• Maintenance: Regular cleaning and proper care are essential to maintain the beauty and integrity of cremation jewelry, especially if it features materials like sterling silver, which might tarnish over time.

Benefits of Cremation Jewelry

• Emotional Comfort: Keeping your loved one close can provide great comfort during grieving, helping you feel connected to them.
• Portability: Unlike traditional urns, which are stationary, jewelry allows you to keep your loved one’s memory alive, no matter where you are.
• Subtle Tribute: For those who prefer privacy in their grief, cremation jewelry offers a way to remember their loved one without overt displays.

Contact Florida Family Cremations for Cremation Services in Clearwater

Cremation jewelry is a beautiful, meaningful way to honor your loved one and keep them close to your heart. Whether through a simple cremation pendant, an ornate necklace, or a discreet ring, each piece serves as a lasting tribute to a cherished life.

By choosing the right material, design, and personal touches, you can create a memorial that not only commemorates but also comforts.

If you or a loved one wants to pre-plan cremation services, contact Florida Family Cremations today.

What is the Most Affordable Way to Get Cremated?

April 15th, 2024 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services

Affordable Cremation: A Cost-Effective Alternative

With the rising costs associated with funerals and burials, many families are opting for cremation services as a more affordable option. But what exactly makes cremation more cost-effective, and how can you ensure that you’re getting the most affordable cremation services possible?

Factors Influencing the Cost of Cremation

One of the primary factors that affects the cost of cremation services is the type of service you choose. Direct cremation, which involves the cremation of the deceased without a funeral service beforehand, is often the most affordable option. With direct cremation, there’s no need for embalming or elaborate ceremonies, reducing overall costs significantly.

Choosing the Right Provider

Additionally, the choice of cremation provider can also impact affordability. It’s essential to research and compare prices from different cremation service providers in your area to find the most competitive rates. Florida Family Cremation, for example, offers affordable cremation services tailored to meet the needs and budget of every family.

Selecting the Right Urn

Another way to make cremation more affordable is by opting for a basic cremation urn instead of a traditional casket. Basic cremation urns are simpler and less expensive than caskets, helping to reduce overall costs. Additionally, choosing cremation eliminates the need for a burial plot, which can save families thousands of dollars in cemetery expenses.

Customizing Services to Fit Your Budget

Some families may also choose to forgo additional services, such as memorial services or urns, further reducing the cost of cremation. However, it’s essential to consider the preferences and wishes of the deceased and their loved ones when making these decisions.

The Benefits of Preplanning

Preplanning cremation services can also lead to significant cost savings. By prearranging cremation services in advance, individuals can lock in current prices and avoid potential price increases in the future. Preplanning also allows families to make decisions calmly and rationally without the added pressure of time constraints.

Balancing Affordability with Dignity

It’s important to note that, while affordability is essential, families should not sacrifice quality or dignity when choosing cremation services. Even with affordable options, families can still honor their loved ones with meaningful and respectful cremation services.

Contact Florida Family Cremation for Direct Cremation Services in Clearwater

Cremation offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional burial services, making it an attractive option for many families. By choosing direct cremation, comparing prices from different providers, opting for basic cremation containers, and preplanning services, families can ensure that they’re getting the most affordable cremation services possible without compromising on quality or dignity.

Florida Family Cremation is dedicated to providing affordable cremation services that honor the memory of your loved ones while respecting your budget.

Contact Florida Family Cremations today to preplan cremation services.

Legal and Ethical Aspects of Cremation Services

February 18th, 2024 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services, Urns

A few things you should know about cremation.

In times of grief and loss, families are faced with numerous decisions, one of the most significant being the choice of a cremation service. Cremation services have become an increasingly popular option, offering families a unique and personalized way to say goodbye to their loved ones.

However, amidst the emotional challenges, it’s crucial to navigate the legal and ethical aspects of the cremation process. In this guide, we will explore the key considerations to ensure a respectful and lawful cremation experience.

Understanding Cremation Services

Cremation services involve the dignified and respectful handling of a departed loved one’s remains. Choosing a reliable cremation provider is essential to ensuring the process adheres to legal and ethical standards.

Families often opt for cremation for various reasons, such as simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and environmental concerns. Before selecting a cremation provider, it’s crucial to thoroughly research and choose one that aligns with your values and meets legal requirements.

Legal Requirements and Documentation

Cremation is subject to specific legal regulations. The cremation provider is key in this process and plays a crucial role in ensuring all legal requirements are met. They guide the family through the necessary paperwork, including the authorization for cremation. This document is typically signed by a family member or legal representative, granting permission for the cremation to proceed.

The Cremation Process

Understanding the cremation process itself is vital for families going through this difficult time. The deceased is placed in a cremation chamber, where intense heat reduces the body to ashes. This process takes a few hours, and once completed, the remains are carefully collected and placed in an urn. Families can choose from a variety of urns, each offering a unique way to honor and remember their loved one.

Return to the Family

One of the most comforting aspects of cremation is the ability to have the ashes returned to the family. After the cremation process, the ashes are carefully gathered and placed in the chosen urn. This allows families the flexibility to plan memorial services, scatter the ashes in a meaningful location, or keep them in a special place at home. The ability to have the departed returned to the family is a significant factor that attracts many to choose cremation services.

Ethical Considerations

Beyond legal requirements, ethical considerations play a crucial role in the cremation process. Families should feel confident that their loved one is treated with the utmost respect and dignity throughout every step. It’s essential to choose a cremation provider with a reputation for ethical practices and transparent communication. Reading reviews, seeking recommendations, and asking questions during the initial consultation can provide valuable insights into the provider’s ethical standards.

Contact Florida Family Cremations for a Cremation Service

During this difficult time, the support and guidance of a compassionate cremation provider can make all the difference. Families often highly recommend providers that demonstrate empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to ethical practices.

By choosing a reputable cremation service that meets legal requirements and upholds ethical standards, families can find solace in knowing they have honored their loved one’s memory in a meaningful and respectful way.

Navigating the legal and ethical aspects of cremation is a crucial part of the decision-making process during a difficult time. Families are encouraged to research and choose a cremation provider that aligns with their values, ensuring a dignified and lawful farewell to their departed family member.

The ability to have the ashes returned and the flexibility in memorialization options make cremation services a popular choice for those seeking a unique and personalized approach to honoring their loved ones.

If you are seeking to pre-plan cremation for yourself or a loved one, contact Florida Family Cremations today and schedule your free consultation.

Personalizing Cremation: Creating a Meaningful Farewell

January 23rd, 2024 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, Direct Cremation, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services, Urns

How to personalize a memorial after cremation services.

In times of loss, finding a way to honor and remember a loved one becomes an essential part of the grieving process. For those considering cremation services, the concept of personalizing a memorial after cremation services provides an opportunity to create a personalized and meaningful farewell that truly reflects the unique journey of their loved one’s life and legacy.

Pre-Planning Cremation for a Personalized Farewell

Choosing cremation over traditional burial has become increasingly popular for various reasons, including flexibility and affordability. However, what sets cremation apart is the ability to infuse a personal touch into the farewell process after the service is complete. With pre-planning cremation, individuals can carefully tailor the experience, ensuring that it becomes a tribute that celebrates life and honors the memory of their loved one once the initial services are over.

Selecting the Perfect Urn: A Symbol of Connection

One of the first decisions to be made is the selection of an urn. Urns come in various styles, materials, and sizes, allowing families to choose one that resonates with their loved one’s personality or preferences. Whether it’s a sleek and modern design or a classic and timeless piece, the urn becomes a symbol of the unique connection between the family and the departed.

Scattering Ashes: Finding Comfort and Solace in Nature

Scattering ashes is another option that provides a sense of freedom and connection to nature. Many cremation services offer guidance on selecting a meaningful location for scattering, allowing family and friends to participate in a ritual that holds deep significance. This process can turn a difficult moment into an opportunity for finding comfort and solace in nature.

Creating a Lasting Tribute: Beyond Tradition

Creating a meaningful farewell involves more than just following tradition; it requires thinking outside the box and embracing the uniqueness of the individual. Families can choose to integrate personalized elements such as multimedia presentations, themed decorations, or even interactive activities that reflect the loved one’s personality and interests.

Embracing a Personal Farewell

When faced with the choice of cremation, remember that it’s not just about the process itself but about creating a meaningful farewell. Personalized cremation services offer an opportunity to celebrate your loved one’s life and legacy in a way that is unique and deeply personal. Take the time to explore the options available and consider how you can create a lasting tribute that honors your loved one’s journey.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Florida Family Cremations

If you’re considering cremation services, Florida Family Cremations is here to help. Schedule a free consultation with our compassionate and experienced team to discuss your options for cremation services in Clearwater and throughout Florida and see how we can make the process a bit less stressful.

Cremation Etiquette: Supporting Grieving Friends and Family

January 19th, 2024 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services, Urns, Veteran's Services

What is proper etiquette during a cremation service or memorial?

Losing a loved one is an inevitable part of life, and during such challenging times, it becomes crucial to offer support and understanding to grieving friends and family. As an increasingly popular choice, cremation services and subsequent memorial ceremonies have become a respectful way to honor and remember the departed.

Today, we’ll delve into the nuances of cremation etiquette, providing insights into the cremation process, various types of cremation services, and ways to support those mourning their loss.

Understanding Cremation

Cremation is a dignified and cost-effective alternative to traditional burial, gaining popularity for various reasons, including affordability, environmental considerations, and the flexibility it offers in memorialization.

Types of Cremation Services

Direct Cremation

Direct cremation is a straightforward and cost-effective option where the deceased is cremated shortly after passing, without a traditional funeral service beforehand. This choice provides families with flexibility in planning memorial services at their convenience.

Veteran Cremation Services

For those who have served in the military, Veteran Cremation Services offers specialized options to honor their service. This may include military honors during the cremation ceremony, providing a fitting tribute to their commitment and sacrifice.

Planning a Cremation Ceremony

When choosing cremation, families have the opportunity to plan a meaningful cremation ceremony. This can be a standalone event or part of a larger memorial service. The process involves careful consideration of the deceased’s wishes and the preferences of the grieving family.

Before Cremation

Before the cremation process, it’s essential to make the necessary arrangements, including obtaining the required legal permits and selecting an appropriate urn for the cremated remains. A compassionate director can guide the family through this process with empathy and professionalism.

Scattering Ashes

Some families may choose to scatter the ashes of their loved ones in a location that holds special significance for the deceased. Whether it’s a serene natural setting or a place of sentimental value, scattering ceremonies offer a unique way to say goodbye.

Supporting Friends and Family

During times of grief, friends and family play a crucial role in providing support. Here are some ways to help:

Grief Support

Offering a listening ear and providing emotional support is essential. Grieving individuals may find comfort in talking about their loved one or sharing memories. Encourage them to seek professional grief support if needed.

Memorial Service Etiquette

Understanding correct etiquette during a memorial service is crucial. Attend memorial services if possible, express condolences, and offer practical assistance. This can include helping with arrangements or providing meals for the grieving family.

Contact Florida Family Cremations for Cremation Services in Clearwater

Navigating the complexities of loss can be challenging, but with the right support and understanding, families can find solace in honoring their loved ones through meaningful cremation services. At Florida Family Cremations, we are committed to providing compassionate and affordable cremation services tailored to your family’s needs.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance during this difficult time, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with our experienced team. Together, we can create a respectful and personalized farewell for your loved one.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you during this challenging period.

Why Pre-Planning Cremation Services Can Be Helpful

November 28th, 2023 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services, Veteran's Services

Pre-planning cremation services can reduce the amount of planning and stress following a loved one’s passing.

When it comes to end-of-life arrangements, planning cremation can be a thoughtful and strategic choice. It may not be the easiest topic to consider, but pre-planning your cremation can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

1. Understand the Benefits of Pre-Planning

Pre planning your cremation means making decisions about your end-of-life care and how you wish to be remembered. This proactive step can relieve your family of the burden of making tough choices during a difficult time. It’s about ensuring that your wishes are respected and that the process is as stress-free as possible for everyone involved.

2. Financial Advantages

One of the primary benefits of pre planning is financial. By choosing pre paying for cremation, you can lock in current prices for cremation services. This can be a financially savvy move, protecting against inflation and potentially saving money with an affordable cremation option.

3. Personalize Your Service

Planning your cremation service gives you the chance to personalize how you want to be celebrated. Whether it’s a simple cremation or a more personalized approach, pre-planning ensures that your life is celebrated in a way that reflects your values and wishes.

4. Avoid Emotional Overspending

During grief, family members may make decisions based on emotion rather than practicality. By planning cremation in advance, you help prevent emotional overspending, ensuring a service that is both meaningful and affordable.

5. Veteran’s Services

If you have served in the military, veterans’ services can be incorporated into your cremation services. Pre-planning helps to ensure that you receive the honors you are entitled to.

6. Clear Communication

Having a plan in place means there’s no second-guessing about what you would have wanted. Pre planning your cremation facilitates clear communication of your wishes to your family.

7. Peace of Mind

Knowing that everything is arranged can provide a sense of calm and control over one of life’s most challenging events.

8. Consider Pre-arranged Cremation Services

Choosing pre arranged cremation services allows you to compare different packages and options, like direct cremation or a more personalized approach, ensuring that you receive the service that fits your preferences and budget.

9. The Process is Simpler Than You Think

Pre-planning can seem daunting, but it willmake the process straightforward and stress-free. With guidance, you can make informed decisions about your cremation services.

10. Make it a Part of Your Estate Planning

Incorporate cremation services into your estate planning. It’s a responsible step that complements your will and other life arrangements.

11. Help Your Family Focus on Celebrating Your Life

With the details taken care of, your family can focus on celebrating your life rather than the logistics of your end-of-life service.

Considering pre planning your cremation is not about dwelling on the end but about making a wise and loving choice for your future and for those you’ll one day leave behind. It’s a step that comes with numerous benefits, from financial savings with affordable cremation to ensuring your final wishes are carried out without placing a heavy burden on your family during a difficult time.

Contact Florida Family Cremation to Pre-Plan Your Cremation Services in Clearwater

In Clearwater and the surrounding Florida area, exploring cremation services and considering options such as pre paying for cremation or learning about veteran’s services can be your first step toward a thoughtful end-of-life plan. At Florida Family Cremations, we understand the importance of these decisions and offer a range of cremation services to meet your needs and preferences.

For more information or for a free consultation about pre planning your cremation, we invite you to contact us. We’re here to provide the support and guidance you need during this important planning phase.

Celebrating the Holidays After Losing a Loved One

November 17th, 2023 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services

How to celebrate the holidays while grieving a loved one.

Losing someone dear never comes easy, and the holiday season often amplifies the void left behind. As the festive music plays and the air fills with joy, you may find yourself confronting a difficult time, trying to understand how to endure the time of year that was once a source of happiness. Here are some helpful tips when it comes to coping with grief during the holidays.

1. Acknowledge Your Grief

It’s important to recognize that grieving during the holidays is a natural part of the healing process. Whether it’s the first Christmas without them or the tenth Mother’s Day, the absence of a loved one who has died can make the festive cheer seem distant. Allow yourself to feel the feelings of grief; suppressing them can only make the journey harder.

2. Reach Out for Support

The comfort of family and friends can be the most potent balm. Don’t hesitate to share your feelings with them or join a support group. Sometimes, the act of verbalizing your emotions can alleviate the heaviness within.

3. Decide Which Traditions to Keep

Holiday traditions can evoke strong memories of the person who died. You must decide which traditions to continue and which to let go of. There’s no right or wrong choice; it’s about what brings you peace.

4. Create a New Tradition

In the spirit of remembrance, create a new tradition. This could be anything from preparing their favorite dish to playing their beloved holiday tune. It’s a meaningful way to remember your loved one while forging a new path forward.

5. Light a Candle in Their Honor

Many people find solace in rituals, and lighting a candle for your loved one can be a serene way to start the holiday. It’s a silent yet powerful acknowledgment of the love and light they brought into your life.

6. Honor Their Memory

Use the services offered by places that provide cremation services to create a lasting tribute. Whether it’s through affordable cremation, direct cremation, or veteran’s services, honoring their memory through a simple cremation can be a step towards healing.

7. Consider Pre-Paying for Cremation

To ease the burden for yourself and others, consider pre paying for cremation. It can be a practical move that also provides emotional relief, knowing that you are prepared for the inevitable.

8. Attend Holiday Events

While it may seem daunting, attending holiday events can be a way to gently reintroduce joy into your life. Surrounding yourself with warmth and community spirit can help soften the sharp edges of loss.

9. Give Yourself Permission to Celebrate

It’s okay to find moments of joy even when you’re in the depths of mourning. Giving yourself permission to celebrate does not diminish how much you miss your loved one.

10. Reflect on the Good Times

Take time to reflect on the happy memories. Sharing funny and heartwarming stories about family members can bring a smile even amidst the sorrow.

11. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If the loss of a loved one feels too heavy to bear alone, professional help can guide you through the grief during the holidays. Therapists and counselors can provide strategies to manage grief.

12. Connect with Others Who Are Grieving

Sometimes, connecting with others who are also grieving during the holidays can provide a sense of solidarity and understanding that is hard to find elsewhere.

Grieving during holidays is deeply personal and unique to each individual. Whether it’s through continuing old traditions, creating new ones, or seeking comfort in cremation services, remember that it’s okay to mourn, okay to celebrate, and most importantly, okay to seek help.

As you navigate through this holiday routine, know that you are not alone. Many have walked this path and found a way to commemorate their loved one’s life while still finding joy in the present.

Contact Florida Family Cremations for Cremation Services in Clearwater

If you are considering cremation services such as affordable cremation, direct cremation, or pre paying for cremation, remember that Florida Family Cremations offers comprehensive cremation services, including veteran’s services and simple cremation options. We understand that this is a difficult time, and we are here to support you.

For more guidance or a free consultation, we invite you to contact us. We are here to help you honor your family members and remember your loved one in the most respectful and dignified manner.

How Long After a Cremation Service Can Ashes Be Buried?

September 28th, 2023 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, Direct Cremation, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services, Urns

Do People Actually Bury Ashes?

The idea of burying ashes may seem a bit counterintuitive, but it happens all the time. In fact, this is a very popular way to celebrate a person’s life by placing cremated remains (contained in an urn, of course) into the ground in a spot that the deceased would appreciate. This also gives family members and friends more flexibility as to where their loved one is buried while avoiding the high cost of a traditional funeral service and burial.

When Can You Bury the Ashes?

A lot of people ask us, “How long after cremation can ashes be buried?” Basically, what they’re asking is how long it will be before ashes are delivered to them. This can sometimes differ from state to state, but in general terms, a loved one can receive the ashes anywhere from a few hours to a few days after the cremation. The process of getting a death certificate is the biggest reason why there could be a slight delay in receiving the ashes.

Where Can You Bury Ashes?

You can’t bury ashes just anywhere, nor would you want to. Disney World is a very popular place for people to attempt a burial. Not only could this get you kicked out, but it’s also against the law because it’s private property. 

Same with sporting arenas. You could face criminal charges and civil penalties if you don’t get permission first, which these places won’t give you.

So, where can you bury ashes once you get them? Here are some quick ideas:

Your Backyard

The most obvious place for many loved ones is to bury the deceased in their own backyard. This is very common for older folks who know that they’re going to be at home for a very long time. That being said, while there are no federal regulations against burying ashes in your own backyard, you need to check out your state and local laws to make sure it’s okay.

Cemetery Plot

Many people have no idea that you can actually bury ashes in a cemetery plot. After all, one of the biggest reasons why people opt for cremation is because it’s much more affordable than a traditional burial. You’ll need to pay a bit of money for the ashes and internment at a cemetery, but this is a great solution if you’d like to give everyone a place to visit and/or there’s a family plot in a nearby cemetery.

Columbarium

Another alternative that some cemeteries offer is to store your loved ones’ cremated ashes in a columbarium. This will protect the ashes from the elements, and an authorized friend or member of the family can remove them at any time. But, of course, you’ll need to pay for the service. It’s usually not a huge fee, but if you’re looking to save money, this might not be the best solution.

Memorial Gardens

If you do a quick search on the internet, you’re sure to find at least a few community memorial gardens in your area. These are places that are filled with trees, shrubs, flowers, and maybe a reflection pond or two. You do need to ask permission and be approved by the garden’s managing authority, but it’s extremely rare that anyone is turned down. And when that happens, they usually have a very good reason and can point you to a different garden that can accommodate you.

Burial at Sea

Ah, burial at sea. A cinematic classic. This isn’t just a Hollywood thing. It’s very common for people to scatter a loved one’s ashes into the ocean.

It’s a legal thing to do, but there are a few regulations that must be followed.

For example, ashes must be placed more than three nautical miles from land (which means that most movies and TV shows get it wrong). Also, everything you put into the water must be biodegradable, including urns, flowers, or wreaths. And even though you don’t need a permit, you must report the burial or scattering to the EPA within 30 days.

Contact Florida Family Cremations for Affordable Cremation Services

Florida Family Cremations offers affordable cremation services in Clearwater and the surrounding areas. If a loved one has recently passed or you would like to discuss pre-paying for cremation, reach out to us at (727) 223-5911 today.

Is Cremation Cheaper than Traditional Burial Services?

September 20th, 2023 | Chris Leotis | Blog, Cremation Services, Direct Cremation, NEWS, Pre Planning Cremation, services

Can You Save Money with Cremation Instead of Burial?

Many people don’t realize just how popular cremation has become in recent years. According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the cremation rate in the United States is now close to 60%. It’s predicted that the national cremation rate will reach as high as 80% by 2035 or 2040.

There are several reasons for the increase in popularity, such as changing religious landscapes, the desire to keep a loved one’s remains near you at all times, the overall cost of cremation vs. burial, and more. We often get asked, Is cremation cheaper than burial? Given the financial state of millions of Americans, this question never surprises us.

Let’s take a look at how burials and cremations compare price-wise.

Costs of a Traditional Burial

The cost of a traditional funeral and burial has gone up quite a bit over the past few decades, especially in certain areas. As it stands right now, you can expect a funeral and burial to cost $7,000–$10,000 or more. This includes multiple services, including the funeral service itself, viewing, transferring the remains, casket rental, printed materials, embalming (which is optional in Florida), and more.

Costs of a Direct Cremation

Many people wanting to lower costs when burying a loved one have decided on a direct cremation. This involves the least amount of services, and your loved one will be cremated the same day as their passing. Because there isn’t a lot of flair to a direct cremation, you can usually expect to pay under $1,000 for everything. Whether a loved one wants to keep the remains or spread them somewhere, they can honor the deceased’s wishes.

Costs of a Cremation with a Viewing and Memorial Service

Although direct cremations are quite popular, you can also choose to have a cremation with a viewing and memorial service. Although some of the fees associated with a traditional burial won’t be charged, there are still several that you will need to pay for. You can still expect to pay several thousand dollars, often at a cost that’s very close to a traditional burial, depending on the specific details of the service.

Costs of a Cremation with Only a Memorial Service

You can consider this to be a kind of middle-of-the-road cremation. In other words, you’ll save money on several of the charges associated with a viewing, but you still have a memorial service and will pay for the location to host the service. You can usually expect to pay approximately $3,000 for everything, depending on the area and certain details that you’ll work out with the crematorium.

Costs of a Cremation with Family Service

In some cases, you may want to consider a cremation with a family service. This is another midpoint between cremation and a traditional burial. This is where you have the cremation done, followed by a small viewing for family members.

How much it costs will depend on the funeral home and any added services. But in many cases, you’ll be looking at $1,500 or less. This service isn’t always offered right up front, but many crematoriums have begun to offer it to loved ones as an additional option for those who are closest to the deceased.

Is Cremation Cheaper Than Burial?

By and large, a cremation will cost you much less than a traditional burial. Certain services will drive up the cost of a cremation, depending on what you would like to add, but most of those are optional.

If you’re trying to keep your costs as low as possible, then it’s very obvious that you want to choose a direct cremation. Remember, with a direct cremation, this doesn’t mean you can’t hold a funeral service of your own. You can always opt for the direct cremation of your loved one and then hold your own memorial service at someone’s home for a private get-together. This makes cremation cheaper, more flexible, and more sensible.

Contact Florida Family Cremations for Cremation Services in Clearwater

Florida Family Cremations offers affordable cremation services in Clearwater and the surrounding areas. If you have any questions that are similar to Is cremation cheaper than burial?, don’t hesitate to ask. Simply give us a call at (727) 223-5911 today. Also, ask about pre-paying for cremation services and our veteran’s cremation services.