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A firework remembrance
A specialist display can incorporate a portion of ashes into fireworks as a farewell shared with family and friends. Heavenly Stars Fireworks offers this form of remembrance. Discuss the amount of ashes, who will handle the display, the proposed site, permissions, weather arrangements and total price. Agree what happens to any ashes not used.
A tree or garden memorial
A tree, garden or another meaningful place can be part of remembrance. The Living Urn offers planting arrangements using a biodegradable urn. Consider who will have access in future, how the site will be cared for, the landowner’s permission and any rules about planting, memorials or placing ashes.
A reef memorial
Eternal Reefs describes memorial structures incorporating cremated remains into a concrete reef form. A fixed reef memorial is different from scattering ashes at sea. Ask the specialist about its locations, travel and ceremony arrangements, the amount of ashes used, permissions and the complete cost.
A personalised urn
An urn can reflect a person’s interests, profession or appearance. Examples include a favourite character, a figure connected with a profession and a 3D-printed bust. You may prefer to keep an urn at home, bury the ashes or choose a memorial location. Think about capacity, materials, where it will sit and who will care for or visit that place.
A memorial flight
There are two different approaches to explore: Celestis memorial spaceflight and Ascension Flights’ high-altitude balloon release. A high-altitude balloon flight is not the same as an orbital spaceflight. Ask which journey is offered, the location, how much of the ashes travels, what is returned, whether a recording is supplied and what happens if a launch is delayed.
Artwork, glass and jewellery
Ashes can be incorporated into a commissioned painting, a glass piece or a keepsake. Examples include sculptures, pendants, suncatchers and paperweights from Art From Ashes and One World Memorials. Some designs show the ashes as a visible detail; others blend them into the work. Ask to see examples, agree the amount required, timescale and finished design, and arrange return of any unused ashes.
A memorial diamond
LifeGem uses carbon from cremated remains to create a diamond, cut to the chosen specification. This is a specialist commissioned keepsake. Ask about the amount and material required, the creation process, size and colour choices, written certification, timescale, total price and return of unused material.
A balloon tribute
Eternal Ascent Society’s balloon tribute is a different approach from the memorial flights above: a balloon carries ashes before releasing them at altitude. Discuss the actual release method and location, applicable permissions, environmental and practical arrangements, and whether the tribute suits those who wish to gather.
A memorial tattoo
A memorial tattoo can use ink that includes a small amount of ashes, with a design chosen to remember a person or pet. A tattoo is a lasting personal choice. Discuss the process and aftercare with a professional practitioner, take time over the design and ask for clear written information before deciding.
There is time to decide
These are ideas to explore, not items included in a funeral package. Before choosing, ask the relevant specialist about current availability, location, quantities, written terms, permissions, total cost and the handling of unused ashes. Ask your funeral provider how ashes will be returned and stored while you decide. Express Cremations handles direct-cremation arrangements; Respect GB handles ashes and memorial enquiries at its parks.
First published on 28 February 2019 by Gordon.