Cremation has become the most popular form of service after death. According to statistics released by YouGov, nearly six in ten people (58%) want to be cremated after death. There are many reasons for this such as general cost and giving the loved ones left behind more flexibility and freedom.

So, with the majority of people wishing for cremation after death, we thought it would be useful to explore the different types of cremation services and what they include as there are a few options to choose from.

When it comes to arranging a cremation service, there are three main types to choose from:

• A traditional funeral service followed by a cremation
• A direct cremation
• A memorial service

Let’s take a look at what each of these cremation types include.

Traditional funeral service followed by a cremation

This is quite a popular option. It keeps the typical traditions of a burial funeral but without the actual burial. A traditional funeral service, for those unfamiliar, is where a ceremony is held for the deceased with friends and family invited to attend, there is typically a hymn and a few songs and it is usually held in a chapel or a crematorium.

After the traditional funeral service has been completed, the body will then be transported to a crematory and the cremation process will begin. The cremated remains (ashes) are then delivered to the family, usually in the form of an urn chosen by the family of the deceased or the deceased themselves before their passing.

While the traditional funeral service can be a great send-off, it can add a hefty cost as well as requiring a lot of planning, which can often be a huge deterrent. Though, this can be off-set somewhat by a funeral plan where the deceased lays out their desires before their passing. However, this added cost and stress is why people are drawn towards a direct cremation.

Direct cremation

Direct cremations are the simplest form of cremation. No real planning is needed, and it’s all handled by your chosen direct cremation provider. There is no service and no attendees with a direct cremation, which provides the freedom to hold a positive and more personal send-off at a later date.

This lack of planning is matched with a cheaper fee overall, saving you thousands over a traditional funeral service. There is also the benefit of not having to plan out the service and worry about contacting family and friends who can’t make the date. In a time of death and grieving, you want to focus on the more important things in life, such as supporting your family, and appreciating the memories you’ve had with your loved ones. A direct cremation allows you to set aside the service or wake for a later date at your convenience which is greatly appealing.

Memorial service

A memorial service is essentially a funeral service without the deceased present. Usually, the cremation takes place first and then the memorial takes place afterwards. This can be weeks, or even months after the death. It’s a sort of best of both worlds between a direct cremation and one with a service. The cost is still high due to the service but it gives you the freedom to decide when you want the service and gives you a chance to mourn and grieve with loved ones before planning the service.

No matter what option you choose, remember to be there for each other during this difficult time and spend time remembering the good times spent together rather than worrying about the proceedings. Please know that the White Rose team is always here for you. Just pick up the phone and reach out to us.