Reasons Why People Choose a Direct Cremation

More and more Australians are choosing a direct cremation, and at around 60% less expensive than a traditional funeral, it’s not difficult to see why. A direct cremation is an affordable option for anyone needing to save money to send off a loved one. Although this service might be less costly than others, it’s in no way less respectful.

Direct cremation eliminates the need to sort through the many possibilities for a memorial or casket. Often, a quick look at a price list can provide you with all the financial details you need to determine if a service provider is for you and your family.

What is a direct cremation?

A direct cremation is a cremation service without a funeral ceremony or any mourners present. The process is different from a religious or secular service where family and friends gather to pay their last respects.

During a traditional funeral service, a minister or celebrant says a few words and offers songs, poems, or other literary works. After the service, the funeral director passes on the ashes to the grieving in a container of their choice.

A cheaper, more simple affair

A direct cremation is a low-cost ceremony that’s a more simple alternative. Because it does not include many of the expenses typically connected with a funeral, a direct cremation is frequently a good option for anyone who might struggle to pay for a more elaborate service. 

You may not need to hire a funeral director or funeral home if you choose a direct cremation. 

There are fewer decisions to make

With so many decisions to make, there can be a lot of room for confusion when planning a funeral service. Sometimes preparations begin a few days or weeks before a loved one passes away, and sometimes they happen immediately after their passing. In either case, it’s  usually a stressful and emotionally strained time. Organising a traditional service can exacerbate those feelings. Direct cremation, on the other hand, gives families more time to plan a memorial service and allows them to start preparations as time permits.

Anybody who does not want to deal with the pain of making difficult decisions related to a conventional funeral service will likely find a direct cremation much easier to manage. You don’t have to make decisions regarding flowers, transportation, the location, or the type of casket. Because a direct cremation is a more simple affair, it can often be arranged over the phone in just a few minutes.

No venue required

If you don’t have a religious affiliation, then a church funeral will likely not be meaningful to you. Instead, a direct cremation may make more sense.

Often, there's a particular day of the year, spot, or location which holds a special meaning for the departed and their family. Instead of an elaborate funeral or memorial service, some families choose to scatter the ashes at a symbolic place or time.

Smaller environmental footprint

More and more people are considering the environmental effects of their life choices, and there’s no reason that these considerations don’t extend to their death too. When it comes to funerals, cremation is a more environmentally friendly choice than burial. Embalming chemicals can have a detrimental effect on local ecosystems, but there’s no need for them in direct cremations.

Direct cremation provides a stress-free option for laying a friend or relative to rest. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks can help you determine the best option.

Say farewell in your own time

With a direct cremation, the deceased are typically cremated shortly after they pass. A memorial or celebration of life can then be held at any time so families can say farewell in a more laid-back setting, at a time that suits them.

No hidden fees

When arranging a traditional funeral service, there’s plenty of opportunity for funeral homes to add additional fees to each element of the service. When you’re already going through a traumatic experience like the loss of a loved one, it can be difficult to digest lots of information. In turn, sometimes these expenses can come as an unwanted surprise.

With a direct cremation, it’s typical to be quoted a fixed fee from the outset. That way you know exactly what the fees will be before the service takes place.

Wrap up

Choosing the way you wish to farewell a loved one can be an emotional decision. You might decide on a direct cremation for any or all of the reasons we’ve outlined above. Whatever the reason, be sure to select a quality service provider like Willed, who will take the utmost care of you and your loved one from beginning to end. And remember that no matter why you decide on a direct cremation, the send-off is just as important and emotional as a traditional ceremony.

To find out more about arranging a cremation with Willed, please call the team on 1300 945 533.