Cremation has long been a popular option for funerals and with the recent rise in direct cremations, cremations are more common than ever before. While some prefer the finality of a cremation for both spiritual and personal reasons, many also take comfort in the act of burial as a permanent way of remembering the loved one; the tombstone and grave acting as a spot to visit and take flowers for remembrance.

When it comes to memorialising a loved one after a cremation, many people choose to keep their ashes in an urn. This is quite a nice way of keeping the loved one within reach and provides a reassurance to many that the loved one is still with them even as they pass on. However, there are many alternative options for storing and displaying cremated remains and when talking with people who have recently lost a loved one, many are unaware of the many options that are available to them. 

As with the whole grieving process, remembrance doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution for all and while many take comfort in the traditional urn, it is important to be aware of the various options that you can pursue for your loved one’s remains to provide the most suitable option. These alternatives can be more personal, unique, and creative than traditional urns, and can provide a lasting tribute to a loved one's life.

Biodegradable Urns 

For those who wish to have a more environmentally-friendly approach, biodegradable urns are a great option. Funerals and burial processes have more routinely been put under scrutiny for their environmental impact and while we work towards greener burial and cremation practices, a biodegradable urn has become a popular option. These urns are made from materials such as recycled paper, plant fibres, or even salt, and are designed to decompose naturally over time. This can be a beautiful way to return your loved one to nature and help the planet at the same time. 

Keepsake Jewellery 

Another popular alternative to urns is to have a small amount of ashes placed inside a piece of jewellery, such as a pendant or bracelet. This allows you to keep your loved one close to your heart and carry their memory with you wherever you go. Keepsake Jewellery did used to be quite expensive and limited in terms of your options and where you could get them from but with increased demand, lovely keepsake jewellery can be found for low cost and in a variety of styles.

Memorial Glass 

Memorial glass is a beautiful way to honour your loved one's memory. This is created by mixing a small amount of cremated remains with melted glass, which can then be shaped into a variety of different objects, such as vases, paperweights, or jewellery. Memorial glass can be an especially meaningful way to commemorate a loved one who had a special connection to glass art or who loved the beauty of glasswork. If you are considering memorial glass, I’d recommend doing thorough research and finding a reliable provider as this can be a costly memorial option and quality can vary greatly.

Living Memorials 

As we continue to move towards greener practices, living memorials are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional urns. This involves using the ashes to plant a tree, flowers, or other living plants in honour of your loved one. This can provide a beautiful and meaningful way to remember them while also contributing to the environment and creating a lasting legacy.

Artwork 

For those who want to create a unique and personal tribute to their loved one, artwork can be a great option. This can include creating a painting, sculpture, or other art piece that incorporates the ashes in some way. This can be a beautiful way to celebrate your loved one's life and remember their unique personality and interests.

Scattering

Finally, scattering the ashes is another popular alternative to urns. This can be done in a variety of settings, such as a favourite hiking trail, the beach, or a meaningful location. Scattering the ashes can be a beautiful way to return your loved one to nature and provide a sense of closure and peace.

In conclusion, there are many alternatives to urns that can provide a beautiful and meaningful way to honour your loved one's memory. From artwork to memorial glass, keepsake jewellery and living memorials, there are many options to choose from. Consider your loved one's personality, interests, and wishes when deciding whether an alternative to urns is right for you, and remember that there is no right or wrong way to honour someone's memory. We highly recommend discussing this with a funeral director to see what options they can provide you with as a starting point and then discussing it with loved ones to see what they think. Saying goodbye is an important step in the grieving process so getting many different perspectives and ensuring that those grieving feel they are being heard is key.