When it comes to the service itself, both cremation and burial are similar. Events usually proceed according to an order of service which is put together by the person arranging the funeral.

Here’s a simple step-by-step summary of what to expect.

Step one: the start of the service

The coffin containing the deceased is usually present at a cremation or burial service. There may be a procession in which the coffin is carried into the service by pallbearers. Alternatively, the coffin may already be in place at the front of the chapel or other service location as the mourners enter.

Some services include a moment for the mourners to approach the coffin, letting people say their goodbyes.

Step two: during the service

During the service, time is dedicated to remembering the deceased's life and celebrating their unique qualities. There might be readings, prayers and eulogies shared by loved ones. Music, whether live or recorded, is often played, adding to the personal and meaningful nature of the service.

Step three: after the service

When the service is complete, some crematoria draw curtains around the coffin as the mourners depart. Once the mourners have all left the chapel, the crematorium staff will respectfully begin the cremation of the deceased, away from the view of their loved ones.

The body is respectfully placed in a cremation chamber, where it is exposed to high temperatures, reducing it to ashes over a few hours. It is sometimes possible for immediate family to view the cremation at their request, although most people prefer to leave following the service.

At a burial, attendees (typically just close friends and family) are invited to attend the interment of the coffin after the service and witness the coffin being placed into the ground.

Step four: delivering the ashes

After the cremation, the remains, now in the form of ashes, are carefully collected and placed in an urn or a temporary container. The family then receives the ashes, which can be kept, scattered, or placed in a memorial site according to the wishes of the deceased or the preferences of the family.

There is no right or wrong way to hold a cremation service. The most important thing is to create a space where you and your loved ones can find comfort, share memories and celebrate the life of the person you’ve lost in a way that feels personal and true to their spirit.

Planning a cremation service can be a deeply meaningful experience, but we understand that it can also be emotionally tough. So, here are some cremation service ideas you can use for inspiration.

Memorial ceremony

Organise a memorial service at a place that holds special meaning to your loved one, such as a park, beach, or family home. Invite friends and family to share stories, read poems, or perform music that was significant to the deceased.

Personalised urns

Choose or design an urn that reflects the personality and interests of your loved one. There are many options available, from traditional styles to custom designs that can incorporate elements such as photos, favourite colours, or symbols.

Plant a memorial tree

Consider planting a tree in memory of your loved one. Memorial trees can be a beautiful and lasting tribute that provides a place for reflection and remembrance over the years. Our Go Greener funeral add-on includes tree planting to help combat climate change.

Scattering ceremony

Plan a scattering ceremony in a location that was meaningful to the deceased, such as a favourite hiking trail, lake, or garden. This provides a serene and personal way to say goodbye, with family and friends sharing memories as the ashes are scattered.

Virtual memorial

For those who cannot attend in person, consider hosting a virtual memorial service, to allow friends and family from afar to participate, share memories, and offer their condolences.

Celebration of life

Instead of a traditional service, you might choose to host a celebration of life. Your celebration could be a more casual gathering with music, food, and activities that reflect your loved one’s passions and hobbies.

Keepsake jewellery

Create keepsake jewellery, such as necklaces or bracelets, that can hold a small portion of the ashes. This can be a comforting way for close family members to keep their loved one close.

Charitable donations

Encourage guests to make funeral donations to charity or a cause that was important to your loved one in lieu of flowers, helping create a lasting impact and honour their values and passions.

If you need more support or guidance, you may find it helpful to reach out to a funeral celebrant or a grief counsellor. They can provide additional ideas and help you through this difficult time.

People often wonder what happens at a cremation behind the scenes. Cremation works by burning the remains of the deceased at high temperatures in specialised units called cremators.

The choice to have a service at a cremation is entirely up to you and your family. Whether you choose a cremation with or without a service can depend on many factors, including financial ones.

If you prefer, you can opt for a direct cremation, which is a straightforward, simpler and more affordable option that maintains care and respect for the deceased. At a direct cremation, the body is cremated without a formal service or ceremony beforehand. This option can provide peace and simplicity for those who prefer a more private or less traditional approach.

At Distinct Cremations, you can have an unattended cremation service for a loved one who has passed away. Or if you would like a direct cremation for yourself or someone else in future, we also offer our Unattended Direct Cremation Plan.

See our guidance to support and inform you when making arrangements for a loved one who has died. Our patient, experienced and caring Customer Service Specialists are on the other end of the phone 24/7 to help you arrange a funeral. Just call us on 01543212000.