What to Do With Ashes After Cremation

Many people may be under the impression that with direct cremation in Whitefish Bay, WI. the only options afterwards are to scatter the ashes or keep them in an urn. While these are two very popular options, they are by no means the only options. 

Today there are a number of ways to keep your loved one’s remains after their cremation services. These can include placing them in a columbarium, a cremation garden or even buried in the ground. Today we are looking at these options more in depth. 

Columbarium Nice 

You may not know what a columbarium is offhand, but probably have seen one in person in a cemetery or maybe even in a movie. Columbariums are structures that are made up of various spaces called “niches”. It is in these spaces where families place their loved one’s urn. These niches can be a wonderful choice for families who wish to have a specific place they can go and connect with their loved one as they offer a visual and physical space to visit. 

Ground Burial 

Many people are surprised to discover that you can actually bury cremated remains just like that of a traditional casket burial. This is a great option for those of certain faiths that allow for cremation but also dictate the remains should be kept together and returned into the earth. 

The cremated remains are typically buried in an urn that is then placed inside a small burial vault. The gravesite will also typically allow for a headstone or other grave marker to be installed. This is appealing to many families who wish to have a special, more intimate spot to visit and reconnect with their loved one. 

Cremation Gardens 

Cremation gardens are a popular choice because many they offer several ways to keep your loved one’s remains. They also offer beautiful settings as they are often landscaped with colorful plants and flowers and offer peaceful walkways and water features. Depending on the garden, it may include one or all of the following: 

• Columbarium Niches- These structures may be a stand alone structure or added on with another building. They may be inside or outside and have niches of various sizes or all the same size. 

• Scattering Garden- These gardens are special designated areas in the cremation garden where families are welcomed to release their loved one’s ashes. These areas make it easy since families don’t need to worry about getting permits or knowing the laws or regulations 

• In ground burial sites – Cremation gardens will also often provide areas for in ground burials. They also typically allow for a grave marker or headstone to be installed.   

Final Thoughts 

You can see there are a number of ways to handle your loved one’s remains after their direct cremation in Whitefish Bay, WI. From in ground burials to scattering gardens and columbariums, there is a way that is sure to be perfect for you and your family. Talking with your cremation provider can help you decide which might be the best fit for your needs.