Planning a Scattering Ceremony

For many people, having their ashes scattered is an important part of their own final arrangements. Often, they will make it known to their family well in advance where they want their ashes to be spread. This is usually a place with lots of meaning to them, like a beloved vacation spot, out at sea, or at a place with many cherished childhood memories. When someone has chosen cremation services near Evanston, IL, as their method of disposition, scattering their ashes becomes a possibility. As their family, you can hold a special ceremony or service in their honor at the place where their ashes will be spread.   

The first thing you should think about is doing a little research on the location where you’re planning to scatter. There are different rules and guidelines that you may have to follow, depending on where you’re planning to go. For instance, in a public space like a park or beach, you must check with local authorities as to where and when it is permitted to scatter ashes. If your loved one wanted their remnants to be scattered at sea, you must travel at least three nautical miles away from shore. If you’re planning on scattering on private property, you must obtain permission from the owners first. Doing some due diligence ahead of time will ensure a smooth and worry-free event. 

You’ll also want to consider how many people you plan to invite. You may want to keep it intimate and small, with just immediate family in attendance. On the other hand, you might invite a larger circle of family and friends to come. With this in mind, you can also consider how you want to scatter your loved one’s ashes. Will you or another family member be doing it, or would you like for everyone there to have a chance to scatter a small amount? This can be a special opportunity for those in attendance to say their own personal goodbye, which can be a meaningful step in the grieving process.   

Another thing to think about is how formal or informal you want the service to be. Some people may even have a member of the clergy attend to lead everyone in a short service and prayer. Other families might play a special song, or share fond memories before the scattering remains. Perhaps you want to incorporate something like flower petals into the scattering, or maybe you’d like everyone in attendance to toast to the memory of your loved one. These are just a few ideas, but your options are essentially endless with what you can do. 

As you can see, a scattering ceremony can be a beautiful and meaningful way to return your cherished one to a place that they loved in life. Your provider of cremation services near Evanston, IL, can help you with any questions or resources you might need either for immediate need or preplanning. Then you and your family can share a moment of acceptance and goodbye for your loved one, knowing that you have brought them back to a meaningful place. See our guarantee.