After Cremation Options

A body that is cremated must be placed in a container prior to cremation. This can be as simple as a cardboard box or a wooden casket especially built for cremation. A second option is a cardboard box that fits inside a wooden shell, which is designed to look like a traditional casket. After the funeral service, the cardboard box is removed from the casket shell prior to cremation. 

After cremation, the cremated remains are returned in a rectangular plastic container, cardboard box, velvet sack or in an urn, if the family has already purchased one. Cremated remains can be kept in an urn (like the granite urn below) which is then usually housed in a cemetery's columbarium, buried in the ground with a grave marker or headstone, interred within a cremation bench (as shown above) or scattered in accordance with the deceased's wishes.

Cremated remains may be scattered in national parks in the U.S. with a special permit or scattered on private property (with the owner's permission). The final disposition depends on the personal wishes of the deceased, as well as their cultural and religious beliefs. Some religions will even allow the cremated remains to be kept at home. Some religions require the burial or entombment of cremated remains.

A peaceful setting, whether in a cemetery, in a private park, or at your own home can be an enjoyable place for a cremation bench, like the one above. Simple and elegant, utilizing only artwork and a family name, you'll be reminded of those you held so dear. Whether choosing entombment in a cemetery, scattering all of the remains, or keeping them at home in a cremation bench, the decision may just require some more time and further thought to weigh out all of your options.