Cremation on the Rise - Designer Urns
My mother died in 2006, and before she died she surprised me by insisting on being cremated. Of course, we honored her request. Turns out that she isn’t the only one who is opting for cremation.
Cremations are increasing in the U.S. - in 2005, 32 percent of those who died, including many baby boomers, requested cremation. A new company has caught the wave at the right time, and Shine on Brightly is creating beautiful designer urns. Do these look like “you”? The idea is great.
Would you consider one of these for yourself? For a parent? 
Related Stories
POSTED IN: Boomers nearing retirement, Just Because You Can, Mindset
2 opinions for Cremation on the Rise - Designer Urns
Mike
Aug 29, 2008 at 11:44 am
I am a CPA that specializes in helping people save money when making funeral arrangements….so I see (and price) lots of funeral items.
My experience has lead me to believe more boomers are choosing cremation for a variety of reasons:
1. perception that cremation is less expensive (can be true)
2. perception that cremation is environmentally friendly relative to ground burial
3. families are more mobile - less liklihood that and entire family tree will want to be buried together in the same cemetery.
I recommend clients choose an urn based on budget, aesthetics, and anticipated final resting location.
Urns come in a wide variety of styles and price ranges. But, a more expensive urn does not offer any greater “protection” for the cremains.
The family should choose an urn that’s visually appealing to them.
Lastly, think about where the urn will be stored. If you plan to store the ashes in the basement, it really doesn’t matter what type of urn you purchase. If you plan on displaying the urn behind a glass-enclosed niche panel, you may want to opt for a more visually appealing style.
You can learn about various funeral and cremation options at http://www.funeral-tips.com.
Jean
Aug 29, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Thanks for the comment, Mike. It’s difficult to know where to be buried. I’ve lived in 5 different cities in three different states. And my children don’t live in the same town, nor would they come back here regularly. An urn can be anywhere. Whoever wants it, I guess.
I appreciate the advice. Anyone else having the same difficulty deciding where to be buried?
Have an opinion? Leave a comment: