A cremation service offers many advantages compared to a traditional burial. While there are many reasons that someone might prefer cremation vs burial, the decision often comes down to cost, simplicity, and flexibility.
Cost
Before making a major purchase, it’s important to establish a budget and know what you can afford. In most cases, the cost of a cremation service is typically less than the cost of a burial. Because there is no need to purchase items like a headstone, grave space, or burial vault, the expenses are much less. What many families will do is use these savings to offset the cost of a celebration of life or memorial service.
Simplicity
Another popular reason for families to select cremation is because of the simplicity it offers. In the 48 hours following a loved one’s passing, the family has up to 70 decisions to make regarding the funeral and burial service. By comparison, the arrangement process for a cremation is much simpler. Instead of spending time away from your family, a brief arrangement conference is all that is required. This means your family has more time to comfort one another and plan a meaningful service of remembrance.
Flexibility
Flexibility is another benefit of cremation services. Because the remains are cared for immediately, your family has more time to plan a meaningful service of remembrance. It is actually quite common for families to hold a celebration of life or memorial service weeks or months after the remains have been cremated. Another benefit of flexibility is the ability to relocate. Should your family move in the future, they can bring the cremated remains with them. Unlike with a burial service, it is much easier to move an urn across the country.
If any of those reasons ring true for you and your family, then cremation may be the perfect alternative for your loved one.