One reason that more people are choosing cremation is that it offers more flexibility. If the body is cremated, families can wait for a convenient time to have the memorial service and have more options on the permanent resting place of the remains. For example, some families create a cremation garden or scattering garden to scatter their loved one’s ashes in a beautiful nearby setting.
We want to help you with your project. But, before we provide a step-by-step guide, please consider these thoughts about cremation gardens.
Questions About Cremation Gardens
This guide will give you some simple steps to make a private cremation garden for your loved one’s ashes.
Before you create a place for scattering ashes, consider these questions:
- How will you feel about leaving your loved one’s remains behind if you move from the property out of choice or necessity?
- Will it bother you not to be able to visit the scattering garden because someone else owns the land?
- Have you considered utilizing public scattering gardens at your local cemetery or in your community?
One of the benefits of a traditional burial is that the remains will stay in the same place and be marked with a permanent memorial. Therefore, some families choose to bury cremated remains in a cemetery plot or place them in a columbarium niche. Or, they pay to scatter the cremains of their loved ones in a public scattering garden.
However, if you are attracted to having ready access to a peaceful cremation garden, here are some ideas on how to approach the project.
Steps to Creating a Scattering Garden
There are three primary considerations when creating a scattering garden: remembrance, seating, and meaningful landscaping.
Step 1: Memorials
Some families choose to memorialize loved ones in their scattering gardens. There are a lot of outdoor memorial items available that can be personalized on Etsy. Before you add a permanent memorial (such as a cemetery set headstone) to the space, consider the complications that might arise when the property transfers ownership.
For less permanent monuments, consider the following:
- Plaques
- Stones
- Windchimes
- Stakes
- Stepping stones
- Metal signs
Step 2: Seating areas
Benches located adjacent to your garden will give you and your family members a place for peaceful reflection.
Step 3: Landscaping
Of course, the climate in your location will determine what trees, plants, and flowers you will utilize or plant in your scattering garden. However, consider your loved one’s preferences when designing the landscaping. Also, add plants with special meanings, such as forget-me-nots or peace lilies. Some families also add a pond or water feature.
Cremation gardens offer a place for reflection, prayer, or meditation. However, you may also feel that working in the garden is therapeutic.
For Simple Cremation in Your Area, Contact Smart Cremation
Not everyone grieves the same. If you prefer memorializing your loved one in a simple private scattering garden instead of your crowded local cemetery, you may also appreciate the simplicity of using a direct cremation provider instead of a funeral home. For simple, direct cremation, contact Smart Cremation. With Smart Cremation, you will save up to 44% on funeral fees with our transparent, up-front pricing. Like local funeral homes, Smart Cremation staff members are accessible by phone 24/7. Contact us today for pre-need or immediate-need services.
Key Points About Private Scattering Gardens for Your Loved One’s Ashes
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Consider the long-term ramifications of scattering your loved one’s remains on private property.
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Public scattering gardens are available at some cemeteries.
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Consider adding a memorial, benches, and meaningful landscaping to your scattering garden.
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Smart Cremation offers simple, affordable direct cremation services.
