High quality funeral directors Stotfold: Austin’s Family Funeral Directors has been serving the communities of Hertfordshire for over three centuries. The Austin family is committed to the continued provision of a caring, sympathetic and sensitive service to the bereaved and their loved ones. This has established Austin’s as Hertfordshire’s leading, family-owned and operated, funeral director. In 1997, the family designed and built Harwood Park Crematorium and Memorial Gardens to further serve the needs of the local community. Discover additional information on funeral directors Hertfordshire.

Scattering Ashes – This is an increasingly popular option and usually involves a few words spoken as a send off or final goodbye for your loved one. Relatives usually choose a place that was meaningful to their loved one. Alternatively, you can choose somewhere picturesque or peaceful. In the UK, ashes can be scattered anywhere with the landowner’s permission. Creative Options – There are several creative ways in which you can use your loved one’s ashes. Increasingly, people have jewellery made using ashes. Another art-orientated choice is to use the ashes within a painting, sculpture or glass artwork. For music lovers, ashes can be used to make a vinyl record. Some people choose to grow a tree using the ashes. It’s important that this is done using a tree pod. (Cremated ashes can harm plant life if interred on their own due to the acidity involved in the embalming process, but tree pod burials prevent this from happening.)

Remember it’s ok to feel sad. Allow yourself to grieve and understand that it’s a natural part of the healing process. Modify celebrations – Be prepared to modify or skip certain celebrations if they are too overwhelming. Choose the activities that feel right for you and how you feel. If your usual festive traditions are too painful, consider creating new ones that feel more manageable. This can help shift the focus and make the season more bearable. Remember that everyone grieves differently, and there’s no right or wrong way to navigate the festive season while dealing with grief. Take the time you need, be gentle with yourself, and prioritise your well-being. ‘Do’ Christmas your way this year.

A funeral celebrant is someone who officiates at funeral services. Typically, they are professionally qualified and separate from religious beliefs. A funeral celebrant supports the bereaved family to celebrate the life of the person who has died. Their role is to help create, organise and conduct a personalised and meaningful ceremony that honours the life and legacy of the deceased person. Conducting the funeral or memorial service in a compassionate and respectful manner, providing comfort and support to the grieving family and friends.

Personal Anecdotes: Share personal stories or experiences that highlight the personality, values and interests of the deceased person. This can include funny or inspiring memories. Memorable Qualities: Talk about the special qualities that made the person unique. Reflect on their kindness, compassion, sense of humour, determination or any other virtues that stood out to others. Achievements and Contributions: Highlight the accomplishments and contributions the person made during their lifetime. These can include their professional achievements and personal milestones, for example, involving family, hobbies and career as relevant.

Why do people choose direct cremation? Despite the obvious cost saving, only 5% of people seek the cheapest option for their loved one’s cremation. The Big Future of Funerals Survey 2022 showed that direct cremation is popular due to: 54% – Less stress for the family and friends they’ll leave behind. 15% – A simple and straightforward option. 14% – Emphasis on their life, not their death. 12% – Everyone can go straight to the wake. 5% – The cheapest option. Find extra information on https://austins.co.uk/.