If you are Scattering Your Loved One's Ashes, here are Some Popular Ceremony Ideas

Schrader-Howell Funeral Home • July 11, 2022

Schrader-Howell Funeral Home knows that scattering is an essential part of playing a loved one to rest, so here are some popular ceremony ideas people use.

Cremation services Plymouth, MI

Cremation services in Plymouth, MI, are a trusted source for creating a thoughtful sendoff for your loved one. Some individuals may choose to keep the remains at home in an urn, while others may want to have a scattering ceremony. The ceremony can be a great way to celebrate the loved one, so you want to make it authentic and personalized. There are many popular ceremony options that individuals add to the event, and we have listed some of them in this article, so keep reading for more information.


Setting Up the Event


the first part of setting up the event will require choosing where you want to scatter the ashes. This could be a place already selected by the loved one, or you might consider utilizing an area that was meaningful to the person. Popular options include:


  • On the water
  • In a park
  • A vacation destination
  • At their home


If you are choosing a location like a public park and you want a more private function, it is recommended to select a time where maybe fewer people are in the space. Once this has been completed, you can schedule the time that the ceremony will take place and let others know about the events. You may want to include different details like:


  • Themes and color coordination for decorations
  • Food and beverage service
  • Live or prerecorded music
  • Having the option for individuals to tell stories
  • Doing a eulogy reading


You will then need to choose who will be doing the ash scattering. There are some ceremonies where multiple individuals are involved in this process so consider this when organizing the details.


Ceremony Ideas


Raking: Raking consists of the individual's ashes being placed into the ground in the chosen location and raking them into the soil. This could be combined with a eulogy reading or playing the individual's favorite music as they are laid to rest.


Trenching: Trenching involves digging a trench or small hole in the ground where the ashes will be placed and then covering it up with earth. This experience can be enhanced by having a memorable releasing ceremony with doves, butterflies, or paper lanterns. Or everyone may want to speak about the person, then shovel in some of the earth.


Casting: Casting is the traditional method where the ashes are scattered into the wind. It is recommended to purchase a scattering tube or urn and be mindful of being downwind of the release. Choosing to have individuals tell stories or say final words to their loved one as they are being released can create a truly memorable event.


Trusted and Local Services


The scattering ceremony can help release the individual after they have passed on and can be a healing experience for everyone involved. If you are looking for help in planning the cremation services in Plymouth, MI, we are your locally trusted experts. We have been providing exceptional care for our community since 1904 and understand the pain of loss, so contact us today if you have any questions or schedule an appointment.


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