Memorials and Next Steps FAQs

Yes. Many families choose to arrange the cremation first, then decide later whether they would like to gather, scatter ashes, inter ashes, or hold a memorial in their own time.

When someone dies

Families farewell someone in many different ways after direct cremation. Some hold a memorial, some scatter ashes, some gather for a meal, some visit a meaningful place, and others keep things private.

Memorial ideas

Yes. Direct cremation gives families time to decide what kind of gathering feels right after the ashes are returned.

Memorial ideas

No. You do not need to have a formal service. Some families gather privately, some hold a memorial later, and some choose not to have a service at all.

Memorial ideas

A memorial can be held wherever it feels appropriate and allowed, such as at home, outdoors, at a community venue, on family land, by the coast, or somewhere meaningful. Check any venue, council or landowner requirements if needed.

Memorial ideas

Yes. Many families choose to hold a memorial later, once the ashes have been returned and they have had time to decide what feels right. This could be at home, outdoors, at a community space, on family land, or somewhere meaningful.

Memorial ideas

No. You do not need to organise a funeral service unless you want one. Direct cremation is arranged without a chapel service, viewing or formal gathering attached.

Direct cremation explained