Cremation services are rising in popularity across the country. But unlike a traditional burial, where the body is buried in a coffin at a cemetery, those who choose direct cremation have a wide range of memorial options. The following are some of the most commonly used today.

Top 3 Memorials for Cremation Services

1. Scattering the Ashes

There are several options for scattering ashes. Some choose to spread them at a park or in a cemetery, while ocean lovers often have theirs scattered at sea. Some even do it by air! Just be sure you get any needed permissions from property owners or the local government before choosing this memorial option.

2. Urns & Keepsakes

Many family members prefer to keep reminders of their loved ones close at hand. Some people prefer to divide the remains into pieces of memorial jewelry or mini-urns so multiple family members can have a memorial. When selecting an urn, consider its final resting place, as this will impact the size and materials you should choose. A small keepsake urn may be appropriate if you only wish to keep some of the ashes, but a larger container may be required if your loved one was especially tall. Generally, one pound of body weight translates into one cubic inch of ash.

3. Cemetery Monuments

Choosing cremation services doesn’t eliminate the possibility of a cemetery monument. Many cemeteries come equipped with a columbarium — a location specifically designed for urns. You can also bury the urn and choose a traditional headstone.

No matter how you wish to memorialize your loved one, having a compassionate and professional team to assist you with cremation services can help during this trying time. Serving New Haven County, CT, for over 75 years, Porto Funeral Homes will help with all aspects of your arrangements, including organizing funerals, preparing the body, and addressing legal concerns. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (203) 467-3000 for East Haven or (203) 934-5000 for West Haven.