Personalization is a significant part of funeral planning for many individuals, so deciding what to do with cremated remains can be another opportunity to creatively memorialize a loved one who has passed away. There are many options for those who prefer a more traditional route, but this list includes a few unique possibilities to consider.

Memory Glass: Memory Glass suspends cremated remains within solid glass sculptures or glass jewelry. This artistic option provides a personalized, beautiful reminder of your loved one’s legacy. www.memoryglass.com

Garden Memorials: Wind chimes, bird baths, and sundials are just a few of the outdoor memorialization options. Adding one of these features to your yard or garden makes it a special place to remember your loved one. www.batesville.com

Cremation Jewelry: This option involves inserting a small portion of a loved one’s cremated remains into a piece of jewelry, such as a pendant. Many people find cremation jewelry to be a comforting, constant reminder of their loved one. www.batesville.com

Biodegradable Urns or Tokens: There are many biodegradable urn and token options for ground burial or water scattering. These are creative, eco-friendly ways to memorialize and pay tribute to a loved one. www.batesville.com

If you are concerned about the cost of memorialization using cremated remains, there are many economy urns and keepsakes for customers with a low budget. Biodegradable construction, basic steel, particle board, and brass are some of the less expensive materials available. The possibilities seem almost endless for those interested in something completely extraordinary, too. Portions of cremated remains can be incorporated into artificial reef environments, fireworks, or even tattoo ink. The most important thing to remember is that every life is significant and should be memorialized in some way.

When deciding what to do with the cremated remains of a loved one, it might help to consider the future. Where would you want your loved one’s remains to be in five, fifteen, or even fifty years from now? Some individuals are electing to not have a funeral of any kind nor a memorial of their deceased family member. Unfortunately, this can extend the grief process. A physical marker of the life and legacy of a loved one who has passed helps family and friends heal. Funeral professionals always advise that a portion of the remains be retained for interment and memorialization in a cemetery or alternative location.

So, when it comes to deciding what to do with cremated remains, consider the wide range of possibilities as well as the potential impact of what you ultimately choose. Your local funeral home is ready and able to answer questions, explain the options available, and help you decide what is best for your family.