Increasing preference for cremation services in lieu of traditional funeral arrangements has paved the way for planning meaningful, symbolic ceremonies to let your loved ones go. Cremation may seem to lack the finality associated with burials, but it is nonetheless a reverent way to bid goodbye. Other than keeping the remains in a cemetery or columbarium, below are a few heartfelt ways to release the cremated ashes and your sorrow.

5 Unique Ways to Release Ashes

1. Cast or Scatter Ashes

A popular way to release the ashes is by scattering or casting them onto land, into the sky, or over a body of water — wherever your late loved one felt happiest. Before doing this, ensure that you’ve obtained the permit and proper clearances.

2. Go out With a Bang

Some companies can add the cremated ashes to fireworks or ammunition as a way to go out with a bang. Fire the bullets like a gun salute if your deceased loved one has served the community, or light up the night sky with beautiful fireworks to cap off the cremation services.

3. Turn Them Into a Keepsake

When you find it hard to part with your loved one, you can use some of their ashes as a memento. Remains can be turned into heirloom pieces like jewelry and hand-blown glass that can be passed on to the next generation. Others opt to store the ashes in an hourglass or a stuffed animal as a keepsake.

4. Use Them for Art

If you are an artist or have a creative streak, you can mix the cremated remains of your late loved one into another material to create art. This artwork, be it painting, pottery, or glass, can be displayed in your home as a loving memory.

5. Give Life to Others

A way to complete the circle of life is by giving it to another. After the cremation services, consider placing the ashes in a biodegradable urn combined with other nutrients to be used in growing a tree sapling. Cremated remains can also be turned into concrete reefs as habitats for ocean critters.

Planning for an ash releasing ceremony of your loved ones is a touching way to let them go. Before doing so, honor their memory by holding solemn cremation services for them through Sosebee Funeral Home. They have provided caring, reliable funeral services across Cherokee County, GA, and the north Georgia area for nearly 80 years. To discuss arrangements, call the funeral home at (770) 479-2131 or visit their website for more information.