Choosing Above-Ground Burial
For most people, discussing or choosing burial means literally that—burying the remains of a loved one in the ground. Most cemeteries are filled with rows and rows of graves of the dearly departed, all of whom have been laid to rest six feet underground. This is such a common and accepted tradition of laying a loved one to rest that it is rarely questioned as the best—if not the only—burial choice. (more…)
Ten Historical Cemeteries Worth Visiting
A historical cemetery might seem like a strange vacation destination, but there’s something hauntingly beautiful about taking a stroll through time in this way—so much so that many of these historical cemeteries advertise to tourists. Not only can you visit the graves of famous people at these locations, but you can witness the touching humanity that occurs throughout the centuries. In fact, cemeteries offer history, art, culture, and nature in one scenic location. (more…)
Legal Places to Scatter Ashes
There is a popular story floating around about scattering the remains of a loved one at Disneyland. It is illegal to do it, and you can get kicked out of the park if you are caught, but that does not stop thousands of people from trying every year anyway. In fact, it is such a problem that the camera system is designed to catch people in the act and dispatch workers to clean up the remains before they become a health hazard. This means your loved one won’t, as you probably hoped, be spending eternity in the happiest place on earth. In reality, they will be sucked into a special vacuum and tossed out with the trash. (more…)
Unique Places to Scatter Ashes
Most people who scatter the cremated remains of a loved one do so in the traditional places: a body of water, a garden, or a favorite patch of forest. Oceans and rivers are especially popular choices, as there is something about the rhythmic movement of the water that brings feelings of peace and continuity. (more…)
Gifts for the Anniversary of a Death
Most people recognize the importance of sending flowers, a gift basket, or a condolence card when a loved one dies. This small gesture helps the family know they are not alone during their difficult time, and also helps you move forward with your own grief. (more…)
Is Winter the Best Time to Pre-Plan a Funeral?
Like most industries, there is a busy season and a non-busy season for funeral homes. Although no one can predict their time of death, funeral homes tend to see more traffic during the summer months. More families choose this time to make pre-arrangements, purchase cemetery plots, and inter ashes they may have been holding onto since the winter. Because it can be difficult to open up the ground under piles of snow (and because gathering funeral guests around the holidays is almost impossible), people may also put off traditional burial until the warmer months. (more…)
Cemetery Decorations for Fall
Decorating headstones and gravesites is a great way to show your love for the dearly departed and help contribute to the ambiance of a modern cemetery. Memorial Day tends to showcase a cemetery awash in red, white, and blue—while the winter months favor Christmas red, green, and gold. From wreaths and crosses that can be placed on top of the grave to headstone flowers that can be draped over the top of larger monuments, there are many different ways to decorate for the holidays. (more…)
How to Find Green Funerals in Your Area
A growing concern for families all across the country is how to say goodbye to a loved one in a way that honors his or her lifetime—and also honors the planet we all share. It is becoming more and more apparent that our habits, trends, and traditions are not always the best for the environment, and any way we can shift our worldview to make more eco-conscious choices is a good thing. (more…)
Planning the Committal Service
When it comes to funeral planning, there are several different kinds of services you will need to consider. A wake, vigil, or visitation takes place prior to the funeral, offering loved ones a chance to gather (either in the presence of the deceased’s remains or not) to give their last respects. A funeral service is the formal ceremony that takes place at a church or funeral home with the body in attendance. A memorial service is similar in format, though it does not include the body and can thus be held anywhere, at any time. (more…)
How to Have a Headstone Replaced
There are dozens of reasons why a headstone (or grave marker) might have to be replaced or updated. Over time, wear and tear can break down the integrity of the stone—especially in areas with extreme weather. An error might have been made in the spelling of a name or date of birth. A shared plot often leaves room for an additional name in the future, but the spouse may change his or her mind about burial plans. You might also wish to upgrade a smaller headstone into something more elaborate as your financial situation improves. (more…)
 |
Need to send sympathy flowers today? Our florists offer same day delivery to ANYWHERE and gorgeous arrangements
|
|
Appropriate attire to wear to a funeral For Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, & Hindu funerals
|
