Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy, but doing so in a memorable, ceremonial way can provide the peace and closure you desire. One such method is to scatter their ashes or cremation remains in a place of scenic beauty or sentimental value. According to Holman-Howe Funeral Homes Marshfield in Hartville, MO, this process can bring peace of mind to the closest loved ones of the deceased. Here, they list tips learned over years of experience to facilitate a smooth and successful scattering.

5 Tips for Scattering a Loved One’s Ashes

1. Decide on an Amount

Communicate with other family members and friends about your post-cremation plans. Some individuals might want to keep a portion of ashes for themselves or scatter them in a different location. Whatever you decide, make sure to divide the ashes up as necessary before making your way to the scattering site.

2. Consider Travel Plans

Will you be driving, walking, or taking a flight to the chosen location? Depending on your mode of transportation, you may need to pack the ashes in another airtight container in addition to the urn. If you’ll be flying, pack the ashes in a carry-on so there’s no chance of them getting lost, and alert the TSA of your situation.

3. Take Photos

Once you arrive at the scattering site, you might be overwhelmed with emotion. However, it’s crucial to remember to take photos of the occasion so you can look back on it. Without the ashes, the photos will serve as a tangible symbol of your loved one and the hard work you put into commemorating their life.

4. Mark a Moving Spot

Scattering ashes into an approved body of water can be a beautiful gesture, especially if your loved one had an attachment to the spot. However, ashes can be hard to see when dispersed in liquid—as well as nearly impossible to photograph. To visually mark the movement of your loved one’s remains, scatter flowers or petals along with the ashes.

5. Plan Next Steps

Once you’ve completed the scattering and had a friend or loved one photograph the event, you’ll have to tend to practical concerns like hand-washing. Plan this before your trip to avoid removing the ashes in an irreverent way. If there is no sink or bathroom near the scattering site, bring a towel and other supplies to wash your hands on the go.

If you’re preparing to scatter a loved one’s ashes, contact the caring team at Holman-Howe Funeral Homes Marshfield for help. In addition to cremation, they also facilitate burial services, memorial services, and a wide range of other funeral arrangements. For more information on their offerings, visit the website. You can also call (417) 935-2244 to discuss post-cremation options today.