As the founder of Encased Memories, I've had the privilege of helping countless families find meaningful ways to honor their loved ones. One question I'm often asked is, "What to do with ashes of a loved one?" It's a deeply personal decision, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Today, I'd like to share some creative and heartfelt ideas for ash scattering ceremonies, drawing from both my professional experience and personal journey.
The Decision: What to Do with Ashes of a Loved One
When faced with the question of what to do with ashes of a loved one, many people find comfort in the idea of a scattering ceremony. It's a beautiful way to return your loved one to nature or a place that held special meaning for them. But deciding what to do with ashes of a loved one is just the first step. The next is planning a ceremony that truly honors their memory.
Before we dive into specific ideas, it's important to remember that there's no "right" way to scatter ashes. The most meaningful ceremonies are those that reflect the personality and wishes of the deceased, as well as provide comfort to those left behind. As you consider what to do with ashes of a loved one, keep in mind that the ceremony can be as simple or elaborate as you wish.
Ocean Scattering: A Popular Choice
One of the most popular choices when deciding what to do with ashes of a loved one is an ocean scattering ceremony. I remember helping a family plan such a ceremony for their father, a lifelong sailor. We chartered a boat and sailed out to his favorite fishing spot. As the sun began to set, each family member took turns scattering a portion of the ashes into the waves.
If you're considering what to do with ashes of a loved one who had a connection to the sea, an ocean scattering can be deeply meaningful. Just be sure to check local regulations, as some areas have specific rules about ash scattering in bodies of water.
Mountain Top Tributes
For those who loved the mountains, scattering ashes from a scenic overlook can be a powerful way to honor their memory. I once assisted a family in planning a hiking trip to scatter their mother's ashes. They chose her favorite trail, and as they reached the summit, they shared stories and memories before releasing her ashes to the wind.
When considering what to do with ashes of a loved one who was an outdoor enthusiast, a mountain top ceremony can provide a sense of peace and connection to nature. Just be mindful of wind direction and choose a day with calm weather.
Garden Memorials
For those wondering what to do with ashes of a loved one who had a green thumb, creating a memorial garden can be a beautiful tribute. I worked with a woman who wanted to honor her husband's love of gardening. We incorporated his ashes into the soil of a new rose garden in their backyard. Now, every time the roses bloom, she feels his presence.
This option for what to do with ashes of a loved one allows for ongoing connection and care. You can choose plants that were meaningful to your loved one or that represent aspects of their personality.
Aerial Scattering
For a truly unique approach to what to do with ashes of a loved one, some families opt for aerial scattering. I once helped coordinate a ceremony where a family hired a small plane to scatter their grandfather's ashes over his hometown. It was a fitting tribute for a man who had always loved flying.
If you're exploring what to do with ashes of a loved one who had a passion for aviation or simply loved expansive views, aerial scattering can provide a sense of freedom and release.
Incorporating Art
When pondering what to do with ashes of a loved one who was artistic, consider incorporating their ashes into a work of art. I've seen families commission paintings where the artist mixes a small amount of ash into the paint. Others have chosen to have glass sculptures created, with the ashes swirled into the molten glass.
This approach to what to do with ashes of a loved one creates a lasting, visual tribute that can be displayed in the home. It's a way of keeping your loved one's memory present in your daily life.
Eco-Friendly Options
For those concerned about environmental impact when deciding what to do with ashes of a loved one, there are several eco-friendly options. One family I worked with chose to use their loved one's ashes to plant a memorial tree. The ashes were mixed with the soil, allowing the tree to grow as a living memorial.
Another eco-friendly option for what to do with ashes of a loved one is to use biodegradable urns. These can be buried or placed in water, where they'll naturally break down over time.
Scattering in Multiple Locations
Sometimes, when families are deciding what to do with ashes of a loved one, they can't agree on a single location. In these cases, I often suggest dividing the ashes for multiple ceremonies. I remember a family who scattered their mother's ashes in three locations: her childhood home, her favorite vacation spot, and a local park she visited daily.
This approach to what to do with ashes of a loved one allows for multiple meaningful ceremonies and gives each family member a chance to say goodbye in their own way.
Incorporating Hobbies and Passions
When considering what to do with ashes of a loved one, think about their hobbies and passions. I once worked with a family who scattered their father's ashes on his favorite golf course. Another chose to release their loved one's ashes during a hot air balloon ride, honoring their sense of adventure.
By aligning the ceremony with your loved one's interests, you create a more personal and meaningful tribute. It's a way of celebrating their life and the things that brought them joy.
Combining Scattering with Keepsakes
For many families grappling with what to do with ashes of a loved one, the idea of parting with all the ashes can be difficult. That's where cremation keepsakes come in. At Encased Memories, we offer beautiful glass keepsakes that incorporate a small portion of ashes.
I've seen families hold a scattering ceremony for the majority of the ashes, while each member keeps a small keepsake. This approach to what to do with ashes of a loved one allows for both a ceremonial goodbye and a tangible connection to carry forward.
Private vs. Public Ceremonies
As you decide what to do with ashes of a loved one, consider whether you want a private or public ceremony. Some families prefer an intimate gathering, while others invite a larger group to participate in the scattering.
I remember a beautiful public ceremony where a community came together to scatter the ashes of a beloved teacher in the school garden. It was a powerful moment of collective remembrance. On the other hand, I've also witnessed deeply moving private ceremonies with just immediate family present.
Incorporating Music and Readings
Regardless of how you choose to answer the question of what to do with ashes of a loved one, consider incorporating music or readings into the ceremony. I've seen families play their loved one's favorite songs, read poems, or share passages from beloved books during the scattering.
These elements can add depth and personal meaning to the ceremony, helping to create a multi-sensory experience that honors your loved one's memory.
Conclusion: Finding Your Way
As you consider what to do with ashes of a loved one, remember that there's no single right answer. The most important thing is to choose a method that feels meaningful to you and honors the memory of your loved one.
Whether you choose to scatter ashes in nature, incorporate them into art, or keep a portion in a cremation keepsake, the ceremony you create is a beautiful way to say goodbye and celebrate a life well-lived.
At Encased Memories, we're honored to be a part of this journey, offering cremation keepsakes that allow you to keep a small part of your loved one close, even after scattering. Whatever you decide to do with ashes of a loved one, know that it's your love and memories that truly keep their spirit alive.