If you’re in the process of planning a cremation service in Columbia, MD, you no doubt realize that cremations are far less expensive than funerals. That’s not to say they’re better than funerals. But if you want to plan the most cost-effective body disposition, then a cremation is what you’ll want. You’ll see that funeral homes offer numerous cremation service packages.
Here’s a look at why cremation services are more cost-effective than funeral services.
Can Skip Formal Ceremony
One reason cremations are more cost-effective than funerals is that it’s possible to skip a formal funeral service in a church or someplace else. While you can technically have a funeral service before or after the cremation service, you can skip it if you arrange a cremation. This will save you some money. What some families do is hold a cremation service or a celebration of life following the cremation. This provides an event where family and friends can come together.
No Need for Casket
Planning a cremation service also means you won’t have to purchase a casket. If you look at price ranges for caskets, you’ll see that some of the come at a pretty high price tag. That said, you can get caskets at reasonable costs if you wish to arrange a funeral service for a loved one.
No Visitation or Wake
While you can have a visitation or a wake if you plan a cremation, you don’t necessarily have to. It might not be a bad idea to skip these extras at a time when social distancing measures are in place. Streamlining the cremation service could mean not having a visitation or a wake. You can still arrange a meaningful final service for your deceased loved one if you opt not to plan a visitation or a wake. It really comes down to what you and your family want.
No Embalming
You can also skip the embalming process if you arrange a cremation service. A cremation can be done soon after the passing of a loved one, so there won’t usually be a need for embalming.
No Burial Vault
In addition to not requiring a casket if you arrange a cremation, you won’t need a burial vault. A burial vault is basically a container into which a casket is placed before being buried underground. Most cemeteries require burial vaults because they keep the earth on top of the casket from settling. An urn vault will also safeguard the casket’s structural integrity. If you buy an urn, meanwhile, you will likely need an urn vault if you wish to bury it in a cemetery.
These are just some of the reasons why Columbia, MD cremation services are less expensive than funeral services. Whether you want to arrange a cremation or a funeral, we can be of assistance. We’re a family owned and operated funeral home that has been serving the community since the early 1900s. This means we have deep roots in the area and a connection to the people here. For the help you require, you can reach us by phone to speak with one of our licensed industry professionals. You can also visit our office to speak to someone in person.