No rule says you must have a traditional funeral, especially if you've chosen a Milton-Freewater, OR, cremation service. There are plenty of personalized and unique alternatives to consider.
Many of them also cost far less than a full-service funeral and are accessible to most people. If you want something outside the formality of a traditional funeral, have a look at some of these alternatives –
1 .Tree Planting Ceremony
Many people choose cremation for environmental reasons. A tree-planting ceremony is a way to honor your loved one and continue the theme. You can plant one in your home or public park if it's allowed.
Planting a tree as a memorial also symbolizes growth and rebirth. You can mix the ashes with the seed inside a biodegradable urn when you bury it.
It's not necessary, but you can plan a small ceremony with the planting. Nothing elaborate. Just a gathering of friends and loved ones sharing a meal and stories about the deceased.
2. Ash Scattering Ceremony
A scattering ceremony is similar to a graveside committal service, where you say your final farewell to the deceased. It can happen anywhere – beach, public park, hiking trail – as long as it's somewhere meaningful to you or your loved one.
It can be a formal ceremony officiated by a religious leader, with prayers and bible readings. Or an informal event with poems, music, and fun activities. You can even blend both. The ceremony only needs to be something the deceased would love.
And it doesn't have to involve others. It's a great alternative if you want some solitude while saying your goodbyes.
3. Memorial Movie Night
Some local cinemas offer private screenings, and you have them in the local library or park. Home is also an option if you want something more intimate. It can be an entire evening of your loved one's favorite movies. Did they love the MCU? Or were they huge Indiana Jones fans?
The dress code and dinner menu can be themed as well. You can have a few people say a few words or jump into the movie immediately. Or freestyle and let the night play out on its own.
4. Dinner at a Restaurant
Gather your friends and family and head to a local restaurant. Maybe one the deceased frequented. Order their favorite meal and have a fun evening sharing stories and memories about them.
Alternatively, have everyone make some of your loved one's favorite foods and share them with each other. It can be at home or in a public park. Add an open mic for storytelling, poems, or toasts.
Whichever alternative you choose, remember to keep it personal. Focus on what best suits you and your loved one. And it's okay to be private.
Let us know if you need an extra pair of hands organizing your cremation service in Milton-Freewater, OR. We help families craft befitting ceremonies unique to their loved one's life and personality. Call us now to speak with our funeral director.
