Many funeral homes in Bronx, NY provide different cremation packages at different costs. Direct cremation is an option that people turn to for various reasons such as affordability and so on. You can hold memorial service weeks or days after a cremation. If you prefer any alternative to a memorial service for one reason or another, here are some ideas.
Organize A Picnic Or Potluck To Remember Your Loved One
The picnic or potluck is not just entertainment but also a celebration of the life of your deceased loved one. Family members can gather at a designated location where everyone can mingle and share their memories of their loved ones without any interruption. You may request each family member to bring an item of food if you are going to be cooking on-site or food that is already cooked. It will be a great idea if every dish brought to the potluck reminds everyone of their loved one. You may even include music in the gathering.
Hold An Ash Scattering Ceremony
You can still get closure without holding a memorial ceremony. One way to do this is through an ash scattering ceremony where the ashes are put in places that hold great meaning to the deceased loved one. Letting go of the ashes can help people finally come to terms with their loss and grieve one last time. There is no formula for holding ash scattering ceremonies, it is all up to you.
A Sharing Circle Ceremony
At a sharing circle ceremony, every family member shares their memories of their dead loved one. You are supposed to talk about what your experiences with your loved one meant to you, and listen while others also share their experiences. The ceremony can be held at the home of the deceased or any other gathering spot that is appropriate. You can give each person a minute to share and everyone can offer them emotional support if needed. This is a ceremony meant to help attendees let go and move on.
Virtual Dinner Party On Social Media
You can hold a virtual dinner on any social media platform. Make sure the social media platform allows you to create a private chat that only you and your family members are invited to. For example, Zoom allows you to invite people to a video chat room that you have created. Ask everyone to cook your loved one’s favorite dish so that you can all enjoy it together as you share good memories you had with the deceased.
Ash Scattering Ceremony
Letting go of your loved one is going to be difficult whether it’s during burial or when you are scattering their ashes. A ceremony attended by your family and friends can make the whole process easier and more meaningful. It doesn’t have to be an elaborate ceremony, all you need is all your family present as you scatter the ashes into the wind or ocean.
Whether you choose funeral or cremation services in Bronx, NY, there are always alternatives to memorial services that you can organize to honor a loved one.